Depoe Bay, Oregon – the world’s smallest working harbor

Depoe Bay is a small coastal city located on the central Oregon coast. The city is situated on a narrow strip of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Depoe Bay Harbor, and it is known for its beautiful views of the coast and its picturesque setting.

History

The history of Depoe Bay dates back to the early 1800s, when the area was first explored by European settlers. The first settlers in the area were fur traders, who built a trading post near the mouth of the Depoe Bay Harbor.

In the early 1900s, the area began to develop as a tourist destination, and a number of hotels and resorts were built along the coast. The city was incorporated in 1971, and it has since become a popular spot for visitors who are interested in exploring the natural beauty of the Oregon coast.

Today, Depoe Bay is a thriving community that offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. The city is known for its beautiful views of the coast, and it is a popular spot for whale watching, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Local Attractions

Spouting at the Depoe Bay Sea Wall during the King Tides of November 2022 / Photo: Steven Trotter

One of the main attractions in Depoe Bay is the Depoe Bay Sea Wall, a concrete seawall that stretches along the edge of the city and provides beautiful views of the ocean. The sea wall is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, who come to watch the waves, take pictures, and enjoy the fresh sea air.

In addition to the sea wall, Depoe Bay is home to a number of other popular attractions:

  • Depoe Bay Sea Wall: A concrete seawall that stretches along the edge of the city, providing beautiful views of the ocean.
  • Depoe Bay Boat Basin: A small boat harbor home to a variety of small boats and fishing vessels.
  • Depoe Bay Fishermen’s Memorial: A memorial honoring local fishermen who have lost their lives at sea.
  • Parks and trails: Depoe Bay has several parks and trails, providing opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
  • Whale, Sea Life, and Shark Museum: A museum dedicated to marine life, with exhibits on whales, sea life, and sharks.
  • Depoe Bay Inn & Whale Watching Center: A center that offers guided whale-watching tours.
  • Whale watching: Depoe Bay is known for its whale-watching opportunities, with several companies offering guided tours.
  • Beachcombing: The beaches around Depoe Bay are popular for beachcombing, with a variety of shells and other treasures to be found.
  • Fishing: Depoe Bay is a popular destination for fishing, with several charter companies offering guided fishing trips.
  • Dining and shopping: Depoe Bay has a variety of restaurants and shops, ranging from seafood markets to artisan boutiques.

Resources and Links

  • Steven Trotter is a graphic designer (UX/UI, web & branding), photographer, and maker living and working on the Oregon Coast.