What’s New – The stretch of road connecting Florence and Reedsport, Oregon, might only cover 22 miles, but it offers one of the most stunning and memorable drives along the Oregon Coast. In just 30 minutes, travelers can experience a blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and a sense of tranquility that few routes can match.
This journey along U.S. Highway 101 isn’t just about reaching your destination it’s about the journey itself. With its rolling dunes, dense coastal forests, and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean, the road between Florence and Reedsport is a slice of paradise for road trippers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a coastal adventure, or simply exploring Oregon’s scenic byways, this quick coastal drive proves that even a short trip can leave a lasting impression.
Your adventure begins in Florence, a picturesque town situated at the mouth of the Siuslaw River. Known as the “Gateway to the Oregon Dunes,” Florence is a charming blend of old-fashioned coastal character and modern recreation.
The Historic Old Town
Before hitting the road, spend some time in Old Town Florence, where cobblestone-style streets lead to locally owned shops, cafés, and art galleries. The Siuslaw River Bridge, a striking Art Deco structure designed by Conde McCullough in 1936, provides a perfect photo opportunity.
Just south of Florence lies the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (ODNRA) a vast landscape of wind-sculpted sand dunes stretching for nearly 40 miles along the coast. Here, visitors can hike, ride ATVs, or simply walk among dunes that reach heights of over 500 feet. The South Jetty Recreation Area offers sweeping ocean views and is a great place to watch kiteboarders or seals basking on the sandbars.
Florence’s Coastal Flavors
If you’re a food lover, Florence won’t disappoint. Fresh seafood reigns supreme here from clam chowder at Mo’s Restaurant to Dungeness crab caught right from the local docks. Grab a coffee or lunch before heading north, because the road to Reedsport is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
The journey from Florence to Reedsport follows Highway 101, Oregon’s iconic coastal highway that winds along the Pacific Ocean from California to Washington. This particular 22-mile stretch offers a little of everything forests, lakes, dunes, and seaside views.
The Drive Itself
The road conditions are typically excellent, with light traffic outside of peak tourist months. You’ll cruise through rolling hills and coastal wetlands, with several scenic pullouts along the way. Even though it’s a relatively short drive, plan for extra time if you enjoy stopping to take photos or explore along the route.
Here’s what you can expect as you leave Florence heading north:
Mile 0 – Florence
Departing from the heart of town, you’ll cross the Siuslaw River Bridge and immediately enter a stretch of highway framed by evergreens and distant sand dunes.
Mile 6 – Siltcoos Lake and Lagoon
A short detour takes you to Siltcoos Lake, one of Oregon’s largest coastal lakes. It’s a peaceful spot for kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying the reflection of the sky on the calm waters. The nearby Siltcoos Lagoon Trail offers a gentle 1-mile loop through lush forest and marshland.
Mile 10 – Carter Lake and Eel Creek Campground
For campers and hikers, the Eel Creek Trailhead leads to some of the most dramatic dunes in the region. It’s a 2.5-mile trek through rolling sands and coastal pines a must-see for photography enthusiasts.
Mile 15 – Winchester Bay Junction
As you near Reedsport, signs point toward Winchester Bay, a small fishing village renowned for its fresh oysters and panoramic harbor views. If you have time, detour west to explore the Umpqua Lighthouse State Park.
Mile 22 – Arrival in Reedsport
Within 30 minutes, you’ll arrive in Reedsport, a welcoming coastal town at the mouth of the Umpqua River, surrounded by natural beauty and rich local history.
Although the drive itself is relatively brief, the route offers countless opportunities to pause, explore, and appreciate the diverse beauty of Oregon’s coast.
Located just before Reedsport, the Umpqua Lighthouse stands atop a scenic bluff overlooking the Pacific. Built in 1894, this historic beacon still guides ships along the treacherous Oregon coastline. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and the nearby Coastal History Museum, learning about the region’s maritime legacy.
Just east of Reedsport, this wildlife preserve offers a chance to see herds of majestic Roosevelt elk grazing in open meadows. Observation platforms make it easy to photograph these incredible animals year-round, often at close range.
If you want a panoramic view of the dunes without venturing far, stop at the Oregon Dunes Overlook, located roughly halfway between Florence and Reedsport. A short boardwalk leads to viewing decks that overlook miles of golden sand merging into the Pacific Ocean.
Outdoor adventurers will love the Tahkenitch Creek Trail, which meanders through forests, wetlands, and dunes before opening up to the beach. It’s a moderately challenging hike but offers rewarding solitude and breathtaking scenery.
Arriving in Reedsport feels like reaching the heart of the Oregon Coast’s wild beauty. Though small in population, this town boasts a big personality and plenty of outdoor attractions.
Founded in the early 1900s as a logging and fishing town, Reedsport has transformed into a hub for tourism and nature exploration. The Umpqua Discovery Center, located along the riverfront, is a must-visit stop that tells the story of the region’s natural and cultural history through immersive exhibits and storytelling.
From Reedsport, you can access countless outdoor activities:
Fishing and Boating: The Umpqua River and nearby lakes are teeming with salmon, steelhead, and bass.
Dune Adventures: ATV rentals are available for thrill-seekers eager to explore the dunes firsthand.
Birdwatching: The wetlands surrounding the town attract species like herons, egrets, and bald eagles.
Reedsport’s small but vibrant food scene centers around seafood and locally sourced fare. Try the Harbor Light Restaurant for clam chowder or the Winchester Bay Oyster Company for fresh shellfish. The town’s friendly atmosphere and slower pace make it a perfect place to unwind after a scenic drive.
The Florence-to-Reedsport drive is enjoyable year-round, but each season offers a different experience:
Spring: Wildflowers bloom along the roadside, and wildlife is active. Temperatures are mild, making it perfect for short hikes.
Summer: Warm weather and long days make this the most popular time for dune recreation and beach exploration. Expect slightly heavier traffic.
Autumn: The forests turn shades of gold and red, creating an enchanting backdrop. Cooler temperatures bring fewer tourists.
Winter: Though rain is common, winter storms add drama to ocean views and the misty landscape can feel almost mystical.
Regardless of when you travel, bring layers Oregon’s coastal weather can shift from sunny to foggy within minutes.
Take It Slow: The drive may only take 30 minutes, but plan for at least an hour or two to enjoy the viewpoints and side trails.
>Fuel Up in Florence: There are limited gas stations between the two towns, so fill your tank before heading north.
>Bring a Camera: The light on the dunes and forest canopy changes throughout the day, offering excellent photography opportunities.
>Watch for Wildlife: Deer, elk, and even sea lions can occasionally be spotted near the roadside.
>Pack a Picnic: There are plenty of picnic spots along the route, including at Tahkenitch Lake and the Oregon Dunes Overlook.
In an age where travel often emphasizes distance and speed, the 22-mile drive from Florence to Reedsport reminds us that sometimes the most rewarding journeys are the shortest ones.
This route captures the very essence of Oregon’s coastline untamed beauty, endless variety, and deep connection with nature. Every curve of the road reveals a new landscape: shimmering lakes, whispering pines, golden dunes, and the distant roar of the Pacific Ocean.
