The Essentials: What to Pack for the Oregon Coast By Season

ByBess Hours

Wondering what to pack for the Oregon Coast? I hate to break to you but even if you are headed to the Oregon Coast in the middle of summer you are probably going to need a sweatshirt (or three!). Or you might be like me and absolutely love the idea of being cozy in a light jacket while strolling on the beach. After dozens of vacations with our kids over a decade we have perfected our Oregon Coast packing list!

what to pack for the oregon coast

My Best Advice for packing for the Oregon Coast

Bring layers! Between the wind, potential rain, and cool temperatures lightweight layers are going to be your best friend regardless of the season. You’ll be so grateful for a packable jacket or cozy sweatshirt to throw on in the cool evenings. While the Oregon Coast is home to some amazing luxury hotels, there is no need to dress up. I definitely favor functionality over looks when packing for the Oregon Coast.

Summer Packing List for the Oregon Coast

Summer is the peak time to visit the Oregon Coast and for good reason, it is gorgeous in the summer! Highs are generally between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit so this isn’t your traditional bikini beach vacation. In fact, if you are hoping to swim in the ocean I strongly suggest a wet suit.

My Oregon Coast Must Have’s in the Summer:

  • Sun hat or baseball cap
  • Lightweight rain proof jacket
  • Cotton sweaters and sweatshirts for layering
  • T-shirts
  • Bathing suit
  • Shorts
  • Travel pants or sweatpants
  • One pair of jeans for going out to dinner
  • Sunscreen
  • Sneakers or boat shoes

While the ocean might be too cool for a swim, I always recommend staying a hotel with a pool if you are traveling with kids. Or even without! Some of the best Oregon Coast hotels have epic views from their hot tubs!

what to pack for the oregon coast in the summer

Fall Packing List for the Oregon Coast

Fall is considered by most the best season to visit the Oregon Coast, and for good reason! As kids head back to school the crowds start to dwindle but September is still warm making it the ideal time to visit for travelers looking to avoid the crowds. In October and November temperatures will start to dip into the 50’s and 60’s and you can expect more frequent rain but don’t let that deter you. The Oregon Coast when it is rainy and moody is pretty phenomenal!

My Oregon Coast Must Have’s in the Fall:

  • Beanie
  • Lightweight rain proof jacket
  • Puffer jacket
  • Cotton sweaters and sweatshirts for layering
  • A wool base layer for hiking on extra cold days
  • Sweatpants
  • One pair of jeans for going out to dinner
  • Extra socks in case I get stuck in a rainstorm!
  • Shearling lined shoes

Winter Packing List for the Oregon Coast

Ok, I’m going to be honest with you. Winter is not my favorite time of year for a visit but I’m going to tell you what to pack for the Oregon Coast anyways! While I’m more of a golden sunset summer and early fall type of traveler, winter on the Oregon Coast does have it perks. Like watching epic storms roll in off the ocean. Just make sure you bring lots of layers and have a hotel with a phenomenal view of the ocean for when you don’t feel like going outside.

My Oregon Coast Must Have’s in the Winter:

  • Beanie
  • Puffer jacket – I prefer a full length option
  • Cotton sweaters and sweatshirts for layering
  • A wool base layer for hiking on extra cold days
  • Sweatpants
  • One pair of jeans for going out to dinner
  • Gloves
  • Shearling lined winter boots

Spring Packing List for the Oregon Coast

Wondering what to pack for the Oregon Coast in spring? I’ve got you covered! Similar to winter, I’m going to be honest and say that spring isn’t necessarily my favorite time of year to visit the Oregon Coast. Temperatures are still quite cool into May and you are more likely than not going to deal with some thunderstorms and cold dreary days. Spring can be such a difficult time of year to pack for no matter where you are going. You definitely need to be prepared for rain and watch the weather forecast so you know if you’ll be dealing with cool or warm temperatures, or a mix of both!

My Oregon Coast Must Have’s in the Spring:

  • Beanie
  • Lightweight rain proof jacket
  • Puffer jacket
  • Long sleeve t shirts
  • Cotton sweaters and sweatshirts for layering
  • A wool base layer for hiking on extra cold days
  • Sweatpants
  • One pair of jeans for going out to dinner
  • Extra socks in case I get stuck in a rainstorm!
  • Cropped rain boots

So what will you pack for the oregon coast?

I hope this helped you figure out what to pack for the Oregon Coast! It is truly one of our favorite family destinations but it definitely took us a few trips to get our packing list perfected. As a Floridian I wasn’t prepared for sweaters on the beach in July!

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