Chasing Coastal Flavors and Golden Light: My Oregon Coast Trail Adventure

Have you ever dreamed of a coastal getaway where the air is thick with the scent of salt, the scenery steals your breath away, and the food scene is as vibrant as the sunsets? I recently embarked on a journey along a portion of the Oregon Coast Trail, specifically between Cannon Beach and Tillamook Bay, and let me tell you, it was an experience that ignited all my senses. But what truly sets this apart from other coastal destinations, you might wonder? Read on, and I'll share all the delicious details!

The iconic Haystack Rock bathed in the golden light of late afternoon. Captured with my Sony Alpha 7 III and a 24-70mm lens, this was the perfect start to my Oregon Coast adventure.

Day 1: Cannon Beach & Ecola State Park - A Photographer's Paradise

My adventure began in the charming town of Cannon Beach. Arriving in the late afternoon, I was immediately captivated by the sight of Haystack Rock rising majestically from the ocean, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. I instantly grabbed my Sony Alpha 7 III and my trusty 24-70mm lens to capture the scene. The golden light dancing on the rock formations was simply irresistible.

The next morning, I was eager to explore Ecola State Park. The hike through the park was a feast for the eyes. Towering Sitka spruce trees framed panoramic views of the turbulent Pacific Ocean, creating a dramatic contrast of dark green and deep blue. I switched to my 70-200mm lens to capture the distant Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, perched precariously on a rocky island. The interplay of light and shadow on the lighthouse was truly captivating, a scene begging to be photographed. I set my camera to an aperture of F8 and ISO 100 to ensure sharp details.

In the late afternoon, I returned to Haystack Rock, but this time for a tide pooling session. As the tide receded, it revealed a vibrant world of starfish, anemones, and other marine creatures. I switched to my macro lens to capture the intricate details and vibrant colors of these tiny ocean dwellers.

Day 2: Three Capes Scenic Route & Pacific City - Scenic Drives and Sunset Brews

Day two was all about the Three Capes Scenic Route, a breathtaking drive that winds along the coast. The views from Cape Meares were particularly stunning, especially from the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse. I spent a good amount of time simply soaking in the panoramic ocean vistas and capturing them with my camera.

The drive then led me to Pacific City, a charming town known for its dramatic scenery. Cape Kiwanda, with its massive dune, was a sight to behold. Watching the dory boats launching directly from the beach was a unique and fascinating experience.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at Pelican Brewing in Pacific City. What better way to end the day than by tasting their flagship Kiwanda Cream Ale while watching the sunset over Cape Kiwanda? The creamy, refreshing beer was the perfect complement to the stunning scenery. I used my wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and the vibrant colors of the sunset.

Sipping Kiwanda Cream Ale at Pelican Brewing in Pacific City as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues. This shot needed a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of Cape Kiwanda.

Day 3: Tillamook Bay & Garibaldi - Cheese, Crabs, and Coastal Delights

No trip to this region is complete without a visit to the Tillamook Creamery. I was fascinated by the cheese-making process and, of course, by the tasting experience. The creamy texture and sharp cheddar flavor of the cheese were simply divine.

From Tillamook, I headed to Garibaldi, a charming fishing town. The highlight of my visit was buying fresh Dungeness crab directly from the boats at the harbor. I couldn't resist capturing the weathered faces of the fishermen – portraits etched with years of experience and a deep connection to the sea.

Day 4: Netarts Bay & Photography Workshop - Digging for Clams and Mastering Coastal Light

My final day began with a unique experience: clam digging in Netarts Bay. The feel of the mud between my toes, the salty air filling my lungs, and the thrill of unearthing the clams – it was a truly sensory experience.

In the afternoon, I attended a coastal landscape photography workshop. I learned specific techniques for capturing the beauty of the Oregon Coast, such as using long exposures to capture the motion of the waves. Shooting in harsh coastal light can be challenging, but I learned how to use a neutral density filter to achieve the desired long exposure effect, even in bright conditions. I learned to set my aperture between F8 and F11 for optimal sharpness.

Food & Drink: A Culinary Journey

The Oregon Coast is a food lover's paradise. Here are some of the culinary highlights of my trip:

• Cannon Beach: The clam chowder at a local eatery was a must-try. The creamy texture, briny flavor, and warmth of the soup were perfect for a cool coastal evening.
• Roadside Stand: A slice of marionberry pie from a roadside stand was a delightful treat. The tartness of the berries and the flaky crust were simply irresistible.
• Garibaldi: The freshly cooked Dungeness crab was the star of the show. The sweetness of the meat and the satisfying crack of the shell made for a truly memorable meal.
• Pelican Brewing (Pacific City): I sampled several beers, including the Kiwanda Cream Ale (a light, refreshing ale perfect for watching the sunset) and the Tsunami Stout (a rich, dark stout that mirrored the rugged beauty of the coastline).

Nothing beats fresh Dungeness Crab straight from the harbor in Garibaldi. The sweet, succulent meat is a true taste of the Oregon Coast.

Photography Notes: Capturing the Essence of the Coast

Throughout my trip, I focused on capturing the essence of the Oregon Coast through my lens. I used my Sony Alpha 7 III with a combination of lenses (24-70mm, 70-200mm, and macro) to capture a variety of scenes, from sweeping landscapes to intimate details. I prefer shooting in natural light and capturing candid moments. My editing process is minimal, as I strive to preserve the authenticity of each scene. For landscape photography, I generally use an aperture of F8 to F11 and an ISO of 100.

Final Thoughts: An Invitation to Explore

My trip along the Oregon Coast Trail was an unforgettable blend of outdoor adventure, culinary delights, and photographic opportunities. From the majestic Haystack Rock to the charming fishing towns and the stunning coastal scenery, there was something to captivate me at every turn. I encourage you to explore this incredible destination for yourself. The Oregon Coast Trail is accessible, affordable, and brimming with unique charm. Come discover the magic of the Oregon Coast!

Here's one final image I captured, a long exposure of the sunset over the ocean, a fitting end to a magical trip.