Ready to trade city streets for coastal breezes? A Portland to Tillamook day trip is a classic Oregon adventure, packed with world-famous cheese, breathtaking ocean vistas, and the charming quirks of the coast. Imagine the salty air, the taste of freshly churned ice cream, and views that stretch for miles. This guide is your one-stop-shop for planning the perfect getaway, with a step-by-step itinerary designed to help you savor every moment. Whether you’re a family on a mission for cheese curds or a couple seeking a scenic drive, get ready for an unforgettable day on the Oregon Coast.
Portland to Tillamook Day Trip: Quick Facts
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Portland | ~75 miles (one way) |
| Driving Time | 1.5 – 2 hours (one way, without traffic) |
| Estimated Round-Trip Cost | $75 – $150 per person (gas, food, activities) |
| Best Time to Visit | June – September for weather; Weekdays to avoid crowds |
| Main Attractions | Tillamook Creamery, Three Capes Scenic Loop |
How to Get from Portland to Tillamook
Planning your route is the first step to a great day trip. While there’s public transit available, driving is by far the best way to experience the freedom and beauty of the coast. Here’s how your options stack up.
Driving to Tillamook (Recommended)
The journey is part of the adventure, and a car gives you the ultimate flexibility to stop for photos, explore side roads, and travel on your own schedule.
- Standard Route: The most direct path is via US-26 W to OR-6 W (Wilson River Highway). This scenic drive winds through the Tillamook State Forest and delivers you right to your cheesy destination in about 90 minutes. Be warned: summer weekend traffic can easily add another 30-60 minutes to the drive, so an early start is key!
- Scenic Route Mention: For the return trip, consider making it a loop. We’ll detail it later, but driving a portion of the iconic Three Capes Scenic Loop or Highway 101 adds unparalleled coastal views to your day.
Taking the Bus to Tillamook
Many people ask, “Is there a bus from Portland to Tillamook?” The technical answer is yes, but it’s not practical for a day trip. The Tillamook County Transportation District (TCTD), known as “The WAVE,” runs Route 5, which connects to the Portland metro area in Hillsboro. However, the journey involves transfers and takes over 3 hours each way, with a very limited schedule. This option is better suited for an overnight stay if you don’t have a car.
| Factor | Driving (Car) | Public Transit (Bus) |
|---|---|---|
| Time (One Way) | 1.5 – 2 hours | 3+ hours |
| Cost (Round Trip) | $20-$30 (Gas) + Parking | ~$20 per person |
| Flexibility | High (Stop anywhere) | Very Low (Fixed route/schedule) |
| Day Trip Feasibility | Excellent | Not Recommended |
Top 5 Can’t-Miss Attractions on Your Day Trip
Tillamook is more than just a creamery! The surrounding area is a treasure trove of coastal wonders. Here are the top five stops to make your day trip truly memorable.
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The Tillamook Creamery
This is the main event! The newly redesigned Tillamook Creamery is a temple of dairy. Take the free, self-guided tour to watch the entire cheese-making process from above, from giant vats of milk to the famous “Loaf Lift” packaging line. The interactive exhibits are fun for all ages, and the massive Dining Hall serves up incredible cheese-centric dishes. Don’t leave without a scoop (or three) of their famous ice cream.
- Cost: Free entry. Food, ice cream, and cheese are for purchase.
- Hours: Typically 10 am – 6 pm. Always check the official website for seasonal hours before you go.
- Average Visit: 1.5 – 2 hours.
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible with elevators and ramps.
- Parking: A large, free parking lot is available.
- Pro Tip: The ice cream line is legendary. To beat the queue, head there as soon as you arrive (before 11 am) or visit on a weekday. The food court line is separate and often moves faster.
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The Three Capes Scenic Loop
This 40-mile detour off Highway 101 is an absolute must-do. It connects three spectacular headlands, each offering a unique perspective of the Oregon Coast’s rugged beauty. It’s a dream for photographers and anyone who loves a good view. Important: Parts of the loop can close due to landslides, so always check ODOT’s TripCheck website before you commit.
- Pro Tip: Cell service is very spotty on the loop. Download an offline map of the area to your phone before you lose signal.
Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
The northernmost and most accessible cape. Here you’ll find the adorable Cape Meares Lighthouse (Oregon’s shortest!), the fascinating, multi-trunked Octopus Tree, and cliffsides perfect for spotting seabirds. It’s a quick stop with a big payoff.
- Cost: A $5 Oregon State Parks day-use parking fee is required.
- Hours: Park is open dawn to dusk; the lighthouse has limited seasonal hours (typically 11 am – 4 pm).
Cape Lookout State Park
The midpoint of the capes, famous for its epic hiking trails through lush old-growth forests. While the full 5-mile Cape Trail is too long for a casual day trip, the park offers fantastic beach access and shorter trails that provide a perfect taste of the coastal rainforest.
Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area (Pacific City)
The southernmost cape is a spectacle. Witness the massive sandstone headland and a different, but equally majestic, Haystack Rock. This is home to Pacific City’s dory fleet, flat-bottomed boats that launch directly into the surf from the beach. For the best view, climb the giant sand dune—it’s a workout, but the panoramic photo op is worth it!
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Blue Heron French Cheese Company
Just a minute down the road from the main Creamery, Blue Heron offers a delightfully different experience. It’s a charming, rustic spot focusing on French-style cheeses like Brie and Blue. Enjoy wine and cheese tasting, browse the gourmet food shop, and say hello to the animals at the petting farm. It’s a wonderful, lower-key addition to your dairy tour.
- Cost: Free entry; tastings, food, and products are for purchase.
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Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site
Need to stretch your legs? This is the perfect stop. A short, easy 0.5-mile trail meanders through a beautiful, mossy forest of Sitka spruce and red cedar, leading you to a viewing platform for Munson Creek Falls. At 319 feet, it’s the tallest waterfall in the Coast Range and a stunning sight.
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Explore the Town of Tillamook
Don’t just hit the highway after the Creamery! Tillamook’s small downtown has a historic charm worth exploring. Pop into local shops, or if you’re a craft beer fan, make a pilgrimage to de Garde Brewing. They are world-renowned for their wild-fermented ales and sours, offering a taste you won’t find anywhere else.
A Perfect Portland to Tillamook Day Trip Itinerary
Want a foolproof plan? Follow this schedule to maximize your day without feeling rushed.
- 9:00 AM: Depart from Portland. Grab a coffee and hit the road before the traffic builds.
- 10:45 AM: Arrive at the Tillamook Creamery. Explore the tour and exhibits, and get in the ice cream line before the lunch rush.
- 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at the Creamery’s Dining Hall. You can’t go wrong with the grilled cheese and tomato soup.
- 1:30 PM: Begin the Three Capes Scenic Loop. We recommend driving it south to north, starting at Pacific City.
- 2:00 PM: Explore Cape Kiwanda. Climb the dune, watch the dory boats, and snap photos of Haystack Rock.
- 3:30 PM: Make a quick photo stop at a Cape Lookout viewpoint.
- 4:30 PM: Visit Cape Meares. See the lighthouse and the Octopus Tree as your final coastal stop.
- 5:30 PM: From Cape Meares, it’s a short drive to OR-6 E to begin your journey back to Portland.
- 7:30 PM: Arrive back in Portland, full of cheese and happy memories.
Where to Eat in and Around Tillamook
While cheese is the star, the Tillamook area has some great dining options.
For the Full Experience: Tillamook Creamery Dining Hall
- Vibe: Modern, clean, and bustling cafeteria-style.
- Must-Try: The “World’s Best” Mac & Cheese, the classic Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup, or a bag of squeaky fresh Cheese Curds.
- Price: $$
For Seafood Lovers: The Schooner Restaurant & Lounge
- Vibe: Rustic, cozy waterfront dining in the nearby town of Netarts with beautiful bay views.
- Must-Try: Freshly shucked oysters, Dungeness crab melts, or classic fish and chips.
- Price: $$-$$$
For Craft Beer Aficionados: de Garde Brewing
- Vibe: A minimalist taproom where the focus is 100% on the beer. It’s a place for true beer lovers.
- Must-Try: Their offerings change constantly. Ask the bartender for a taster of their latest spontaneously fermented sours.
- Price: $$
Insider Tips for Your Trip
- Go on a Weekday: If you can swing it, visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday versus a Saturday is a night-and-day difference in crowd levels at both the Creamery and on the roads.
- Check Road Conditions: This is crucial. Before you leave, check ODOT’s TripCheck website, especially for the Three Capes Scenic Loop, which is prone to closures.
- Dress in Layers: The Oregon Coast has its own microclimate. A beautiful, sunny day in Portland can be foggy, windy, and cool in Tillamook. A rain jacket is never a bad idea.
- Pack a Cooler: You’re going to buy cheese. A small cooler bag in your trunk will keep your delicious purchases fresh for the drive home.
- Fill Up on Gas: Gas stations are few and far between on the scenic loop. Make sure your tank is full in Tillamook before you start exploring the capes.
What to Pack for a Day on the Coast
Here’s a quick checklist to make sure you’re prepared for anything:
- Rain jacket or windbreaker (even in summer!)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Layers like a sweatshirt or fleece
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera and/or smartphone
- Portable charger/power bank
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A small cooler bag for your cheese haul!
- Oregon State Parks Pass (or $5 cash for parking at Cape Meares)
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to spend.
| Expense Item | Low End | High End |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (shared) | $15 | $25 |
| Lunch & Snacks | $25 | $40 |
| Ice Cream | $7 | $10 |
| Park Fees | $5 | $5 |
| Souvenirs/Cheese | $20 | $50+ |
| TOTAL | $72 | $130+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a bus from Portland to Tillamook?
Yes, the TCTD WAVE bus connects to the Portland area via Hillsboro. However, with a travel time of over 3 hours each way and an infrequent schedule, it is not a practical option for a day trip. Driving a personal vehicle is highly recommended for the flexibility and time savings needed to enjoy the area properly.
What is the prettiest part of the Oregon Coast?
This is highly subjective, but many people find the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor in Southern Oregon to be the most rugged and dramatic. For the Northern Coast, the area around Cannon Beach (with its famous Haystack Rock) and the Three Capes Scenic Loop near Tillamook are consistently ranked as the most beautiful and scenic.
What is the most scenic drive on the Oregon Coast?
While the entire Highway 101 is gorgeous, the Three Capes Scenic Loop is arguably the best scenic drive on the Northern Coast. It offers a more intimate and varied experience than the main highway. Further south, the stretch of US-101 through the Samuel H. Boardman corridor is often cited as the most spectacular drive on the entire coast.
What is the closest coastal town to Portland, Oregon?
By driving time, the closest coastal towns to Portland are typically Seaside and Cannon Beach, which take about 90 minutes without traffic. Tillamook is also about 90 minutes away, making it one of the closest and an extremely popular destination due to the world-famous Tillamook Creamery.
TL;DR: Your Perfect Day Trip in a Nutshell
No time to read it all? Here’s the plan:
- Morning: Drive from Portland to the Tillamook Creamery. Arrive before 11 AM to beat the crowds. Enjoy the tour, cheese samples, and an early lunch.
- Afternoon: Drive the Three Capes Scenic Loop. Start at Cape Kiwanda (Pacific City), then hit Cape Lookout and Cape Meares.
- Evening: Head back to Portland via OR-6.
- Don’t Forget: A cooler for cheese, a rain jacket, and to check road conditions on TripCheck before you go!
