Yachats, Oregon

Gem of the Oregon Coast with tide pools and rugged shoreline. Dramatic coast meets small village charm.

Yachats, Oregon

Quick Facts

Population
700 residents
Founded
1900
Recommended Duration
Weekend getaway (2-3 days)
Best Time to Visit
May to October for dry weather and wildflowers
Climate
Mediterranean/Marine
Elevation: Sea level to 2000 ft
Mild, wet winters; dry summers; coastal areas cooler
Nearest Big City
Portland (138 miles, 2.5 hours)
Nearest Airport
Eugene Airport (1.5 hours)
Getting There
2.5 hours from Portland, OR • 1.5 hours from Eugene, OR • 1 hour from Newport, OR

What Makes Yachats Special

  • 804 Trail along dramatic coastline
  • Thor's Well - draining ocean sinkhole
  • Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
  • Tide pools with marine life
  • Smelt Sands State Recreation Site
  • Artists' village atmosphere
  • Fresh seafood and ocean views

Where to Stay in Yachats

The Yachats Inn

Historic Inn$200-$400/night

Charming historic inn in the heart of Yachats, featuring elegantly appointed rooms with period furnishings and modern amenities. Known for exceptional hospitality and locally-sourced breakfast.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Request a room with views of downtown for the best experience

Yachats Bed & Breakfast

B&B$150-$300/night

Cozy bed and breakfast offering personalized service and comfortable rooms. Homemade breakfast featuring local ingredients. Perfect for couples seeking an intimate getaway.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Complimentary breakfast and evening refreshments included

Local Chain Hotel

Hotel$120-$220/night

Reliable national chain hotel with comfortable rooms, free WiFi, pool, and fitness center. Convenient location near major attractions and restaurants.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Good option for families and those seeking predictable amenities

Vacation Rentals

Vacation Homes$150-$400/night

Variety of vacation rentals available through Airbnb and VRBO, from cozy cottages to spacious homes. Great for extended stays and families wanting kitchen facilities.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Book early for peak season availability

Where to Eat in Yachats

Yachats Bistro

Fine DiningContemporary American$$$

Upscale dining featuring seasonal menus with locally-sourced ingredients. Creative dishes showcasing regional flavors in an elegant atmosphere. Reservations recommended.

Main Street Cafe

Casual DiningAmerican$$

Popular local spot serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for generous portions, friendly service, and comfort food favorites. Great for families.

The Local Pub

PubPub Fare$$

Welcoming neighborhood pub with craft beers, burgers, and classic pub food. Live music on weekends. Casual atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

Downtown Coffee House

CafeCoffee & Pastries$

Cozy coffee shop serving expertly brewed coffee, fresh pastries, and light lunch options. Popular morning gathering spot for locals and visitors.

Yachats Diner

DinerAmerican Diner$

Classic diner offering hearty breakfasts, homestyle cooking, and generous portions. Friendly service and nostalgic atmosphere. Cash-friendly.

Pizza Place

Casual DiningItalian/Pizza$

Local favorite for pizza, pasta, and Italian classics. Family-friendly with quick service. Great for takeout after a day of exploring.

Sample Itineraries

Perfect Day in Yachats

Experience the best of Yachats with this carefully planned itinerary covering local attractions, dining, and activities.

8:00 AM
Morning Coffee & Breakfast
Start your day at a local cafe with fresh coffee and breakfast. Take time to chat with locals and get insider tips for the day ahead.
9:30 AM
Explore Downtown
Walk the main street, visit local shops, galleries, and historic buildings. Take photos of the charming architecture and streetscapes.
11:30 AM
Visit Main Attraction
Spend time at one of Yachats's signature attractions. Take a guided tour if available to learn about local history and culture.
1:00 PM
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine. Try local specialties and seasonal dishes.
2:30 PM
Afternoon Activity
Explore nature trails, visit a museum, or enjoy outdoor recreation depending on the season and your interests.
5:00 PM
Sunset Viewing
Find a scenic viewpoint to watch the sunset. Bring your camera for golden hour photography.
7:00 PM
Dinner
Savor dinner at one of Yachats's acclaimed restaurants. Make reservations in advance for popular spots.
9:00 PM
Evening Stroll
Take a leisurely walk through town to see historic buildings lit up at night. Visit a local pub or wine bar for a nightcap.

Getting Around Yachats

Yachats is a compact, walkable town where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance of each other. The downtown area is best explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate the historic architecture and discover hidden gems. For longer distances or day trips to nearby attractions, having a car is recommended. Street parking is typically available throughout town, with some areas offering free parking and others requiring meters or permits. Check posted signs carefully. During peak tourist seasons, arrive early to secure parking near popular attractions. Many accommodations offer on-site parking for guests. If you're staying downtown, consider parking once and walking everywhere to avoid the hassle of moving your car. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft may have limited availability depending on the time of day. Local taxi services are available but should be called in advance. Bike rentals are available seasonally and provide a fun way to explore the area at a relaxed pace.

When to Visit Yachats: Seasonal Guide

Spring (March-May)

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers to the area. It's a quieter time to visit with fewer crowds.

  • Mild weather perfect for hiking and outdoor activities
  • Spring flowers and fresh greenery
  • Lower accommodation rates before peak season
Events:
  • Local farmers markets begin
  • Spring festivals and events

Summer (June-August)

Peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours. All attractions and restaurants operate on full schedules.

  • Warm, sunny days ideal for outdoor recreation
  • All seasonal businesses and attractions open
  • Festivals, concerts, and community events
Events:
  • Summer concert series
  • Fourth of July celebrations
  • Art fairs and markets

Fall (September-November)

Autumn is spectacular with colorful foliage and pleasant temperatures. Popular season with moderate crowds.

  • Beautiful fall foliage and crisp weather
  • Harvest festivals and seasonal activities
  • Excellent hiking conditions
Events:
  • Harvest festivals
  • Fall foliage tours
  • Halloween events

Winter (December-February)

Winter brings cold temperatures and potential snow. Quieter season with holiday charm and winter activities.

  • Peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere
  • Holiday decorations and festivities
  • Winter sports and activities nearby
Events:
  • Holiday celebrations
  • Winter festivals
  • New Year's events

Best Photography Spots

Historic Downtown

The main street and historic district offer excellent architectural photography opportunities. Best captured in early morning or late afternoon light.

📸 Best time: Golden hour (sunrise or sunset)

Town Center

The heart of Yachats features charming streetscapes and local character. Look for interesting storefronts and street scenes.

📸 Best time: Morning for fewer crowds

Scenic Overlook

Find elevated vantage points for panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape. Stunning during fall foliage season.

📸 Best time: Sunset for dramatic lighting

Local Landmarks

Iconic buildings, monuments, or natural features that define Yachats. Research specific landmarks before your visit.

📸 Best time: Blue hour for illuminated buildings

Day Trips from Yachats

Nearby State Park

15-25 miles30-45 minutes

Explore pristine natural areas with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Historic Town

20-30 miles30-50 minutes

Visit a neighboring historic town with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Many areas have complementary attractions worth exploring.

nearby city

40-60 miles1-1.5 hours

Take a day trip to the nearest major city for museums, shopping, dining, and urban attractions. Provides a nice contrast to small-town charm.

Practical Tips for Visiting Yachats

  • Book accommodations well in advance during peak season, especially for weekends and holidays
  • Most restaurants accept credit cards, but some local establishments may be cash-only
  • Dress in layers as weather can change throughout the day, especially in spring and fall
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring downtown and visiting attractions
  • Check attraction hours before visiting, as some locations have seasonal schedules
  • Bring a reusable water bottle - many establishments offer water refill stations
  • Download offline maps in case of spotty cell service in rural areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Yachats?

May to October for dry weather and wildflowers

How many days should I spend in Yachats?

A weekend (2-3 days) is ideal for experiencing the main attractions and getting a feel for the town. If you want to explore the surrounding area more thoroughly, consider 3-4 days.

Is Yachats walkable?

Yes, Yachats is very walkable with most downtown attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy walking distance. However, having a car is useful for reaching outlying attractions and taking day trips to nearby areas.

Are there family-friendly activities in Yachats?

Absolutely! Yachats offers various family-friendly activities including parks, museums, outdoor recreation, and special events throughout the year. Many restaurants and attractions cater specifically to families.

What should I pack for a trip to Yachats?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, sunscreen, and a camera. Depending on the season, bring weather-appropriate clothing. Check the weather forecast before your trip.

Where is the nearest airport to Yachats?

Eugene Airport (1.5 hours)

Are pets allowed in Yachats?

Many outdoor areas and some accommodations in Yachats are pet-friendly. However, policies vary by establishment, so always call ahead to confirm. Most restaurants with outdoor seating welcome well-behaved dogs.

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