Three Capes Loop is the route to all of the scenic gems of the Oregon Coast between Tillamook Bay and Nestucca Bay. Where US 101 travels inland around Tillamook Bay and along the Nestucca River Valley, between mileposts 64 and 90, it traverses the wooded hills and valleys of the Oregon Coast Range but leaves the ocean behind. Travelers wishing to enjoy the Pacific should check out the Three Capes Loop for the attractions this section of coastline has to offer. From north to south, they are:
OR 131 heads west around milepost 64 on US 101 downtown. It reaches the coastline at Netarts, and runs north to the town of Oceanside and Cape Meares Loop. Drive south from Netarts on Netarts Bay Drive and Whiskey Creek Road for the Three Capes Loop to Cape Lookout and beyond.
A long sand spit separates Tillamook Bay from the Pacific Ocean, north of Cape Meares. About half of the spit is occupied by this Tillamook County park with water to the east and west.
Also Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge and Cape Meares Lighthouse.
Near Maxwell Point in the town of Oceanside, there are views of some large rugged sea stacks offshore.
Rugged headland, great views, campground.
Oregon's second largest coastal dune area is popular with OHV riders, but contains quality sight-seeing opportunities as well.
Explore the estuarine environment of Sand Lake.
3.5 miles of sight-seeing trails in Sand Lake's estuarine areas and out through forested dunes to a beach 34A 34B with views from Cape Kiwanda's sea stack to Cape Lookout.
A less developed beach access 35 with views from Cape Kiwanda's sea stack to Cape Lookout.
A fascinatingly sculpted rocky headland with both basaltic and sandstone layers, next to a tall sand dune, Pacific City's dory boat beach, and to a spectacular sea stack. During the summer, there isn't as much parking as this popular spot needs. Be aware that there are fatalities here every few years as people fall from unreliable crumbly sandstone cliff-tops.
Occupies the sand spit running south from Pacific City to the mouth of Nestucca Bay.
Oregon's largest unincorporated coastal town has scenic splendor and lots of nice options for food and lodgings.
The southernmost stretch of Three Capes Loop is called Brooten Road. It runs from Pacific City along Nestucca Bay to rendezvous near milepost 90 on US 101.