Oregon boasts one of the most spectacular shorelines in the world. Extensive beaches, rugged landscape and cosy beachfront lodges make for a majestic getaway. With all 363 miles of the coastline open to the public for free, you can be anywhere along the coast and have a great time. 

First stop on your drive must include Cannon Beach, a filming hotspot for legendary Hollywood movies such as Point Break and the Goonies, and known for its sheer Haystack Rock towering at 235 feet off the coastline; a fantastic spectacle to be seen. The beaches here are lovely and the historical town adds to the experience. If you like your hiking, head over to Ecola State Park which offers some fantastic trails to walk.

As we continue our drive down the coast, we pass Lincoln City, a good stopping point for some shopping or a nice lunch. Heading further south, passing through the towns of Newport and Depoe Bay, we get to Yachats. A small pretty town boasting cute cottages, motels and a local brewery where you'll find great food and some excellent craft beer! 

From here we head into the dense forest park of Cape Perpetua. One of the most scenic peaks on the coast, it possesses an array of different hiking trails ranging from short to full day walks. The Interpretive Centre is located near Yachats, and from there you can get all the hiking maps and trails.

Beyond Cape Perpetua, the drive becomes incredibly scenic, and there are plenty of locations on the drive to enjoy views of the shoreline below. One point which is rather unique is Haceta Head Lighthouse, a lovely area to walk around and discover the rest of the headland, with viewpoints across the shoreline and the neighbouring sea lions below. The 1893 Haceta Head House next door is also worth a visit. 

As the coastline continues, you reach the town of Florence. Located nearby is the Dunes National Recreational Area: a staggering 40 miles range of dunes sprawling along the coastline. Dune buggy rides are available to discover this immersive zone and so a one night stop in Florence is worth it if you're wanting to experience that. Otherwise the views of the dunes from the road are fantastic if you're wanting to continue your drive further down the coast or head over to Eugene, the latter being a beautiful drive through rugged woodland. 

As we leave the coast behind, a great route to take on your possible fly drive is heading inland from Florence to Eugene.

Eugene is home to the University of Oregon and the sports brand Nike. It's a delightful city to visit and spend a night before venturing through the amazing mountain passes to Crater Lake. The city centre is very walkable, and although there's not much to see there in terms of attractions, the craft brewery scene is great so be sure to visit the Falling Sky Brewery if you have time.

As you read through this, you'll start to realise that every drive in Oregon is spectacular, and the one from Eugene to Crater Lake is no exception! In the winter the high mountain passes are full of snow, so a 4x4 vehicle is definitely needed, but the views are outstanding. It takes roughly three hours to get to the north entrance of Crater Lake from Eugene, but it's worth bearing in mind that this entrance can close during the winter, and the south entrance will take a little longer to get to. If you're into mountain biking then a stop in Oakridge en-route is recommended.

Crater Lake National Park offers an outstanding vista and remarkable lake. With many walking routes available around the lake, it’s a great day out, although it's worth noting that the hiking trails may not be available in winter due to high amounts of snow.

If you have the energy to drive a little further south, head down to Klamath Falls. A perfect stop for any group of travellers, from solo to families, its perfect for a few days visit. Lots of hiking, mountain biking, golfing, fishing, wildlife and Oregon's longest zipline.

Leaving Klamath Falls behind, a three hour drive north you reach the city of Bend. Don't be put off on arrival into Bend, as the highway runs through the modern part of the city with vast hotels and motels along the side; a normality when driving through towns in the US. However, the old town is beautiful and this lively small city has everything you will need for a fantastic stay. Each building is designed in traditional 1930-40's decor featuring boutique shops and restaurants and a whole host of different breweries - 17 in fact - which makes doing their brewery trail a must! Bend is also a perfect base to explore the surrounding gems of Mount Bachelor and the Cascade Mountains, all within the Deschutes National Forest.

Bend is a year round destination. In the winter, Mt Bachelor is a great skiing destination and is only a 30 minute drive away. Be sure to visit the picturesque Tumalo Falls with great walks on offer, and again an easy drive from Bend. In the summer months, the town resembles a festival and offers food, beer, arts and crafts and music; there is something for everyone. The festivals also focus heavily on sports with different running events taking place. For those who prefer other activities, you can have a go at rafting, biking, archery and so on.

Walking around the city is very easy and if you like beer, then you're in for a treat with the famous Deschutes Brewery located close to the centre. Book in for a free brewery tour and tasting, then head over to their Brewhouse in town for some fantastic food. Other breweries in the town do a similar service but overall whether it’s a brewery or a restaurant, the food is brilliant. A vibrant city well worth a few days exploration.

Departing Bend and heading up north we pass the wonders of Smith Rock State Park and Mt Hood. 

Smith Rock State park attracts thousands of climbers, hikers and mountain bikers from around the globe each year. The volcanic ash pillars dominate the skyline and make it a special place to visit. The park attracts all types of travellers and is a perfect stopping point, whether it’s a short visit or full day. 

If you weren't exhausted enough from all the activities in Bend and Smith Rock, then a great point of interest to get a final adrenaline fix before heading to Portland is stopping at Mt Hood.  

The second most climbed mountain in the world and one of the 7 wonders of Oregon, this snow-capped peak is a year round ski destination making it a must if you like to hit the slopes. With beautiful European style alpine resorts, Mt Hood is a perfect point of interest. Even if you don’t like skiing, head over there to discover the 11 fascinating glaciers or the elegant alpine lakes which each offer unique panorama of Mt Hood.

Welcome to Portland! Oregon's largest city and the final stop on this fly drive itinerary. Perfect for starting your fly drive or finishing it, Portland is renowned for great food, fantastic craft beer, boutique shops, quirky art and music. 

Portland is a city that people tend to forget. It’s not your New York, San Francisco, Miami or Los Angeles, but it has its own vibe and once you visit this city you will realise why. It will draw you in and make you want to visit again.

Easy to get around, the public transport is fantastic so even if you're staying slightly outside of the centre, taking the MAX rail system around the city is comfortable, affordable and stress-free. Heading into the centre, the city is separated by the Willamette River, and the sight of Portland's distinguished bridges become visible. Enter the city and you'll find Portland's famed street car food stalls. Indulge yourself with an extensive range of cuisines, from Mexican to Italian, Chinese to Indian, it has it all, and if you're a big foodie you won't want to leave! If you're in need of a drink then Portland has the highest concentration of micro craft breweries of any city in the world. Be sure to try out Ecliptic Brewery, Fat Heads Brewery, or many of the McMenamins microbreweries in the city. If you're more of a coffee lover, don't worry, you will also be spoilt for choice!

For art enthusiasts, Portland Art Museum is one of the 25th largest in America and home to some great pieces. This museum and many others are easily accessed around the city just by walking and whilst you're on your way, you may come across some great street art on the city walls and buildings.

Who doesn't love The Simpsons? The famous yellow family's producer 'Matt Groening' grew up in Portland on a street called Evergreen Terrace. Get your camera's ready to discover a variation of different streets that influenced Groening's creation from Quimby Street, Montgomery Park, Van Houten Avenue to Flanders Street. Enjoy!

If you're into your music then you're in for a treat. Porrtland is home to an array of music venues, big and small, hosting a variety of different bands, and if you're into collecting vinyl then you will be overwhelmed. Make sure to visit Millennium Records to get your vinyl fix. Thousands of records from different eras and genres make this place a must visit. Give yourself a few hours!

Slightly out of the city, take the Portland aerial tram for some amazing views over the city and across to Mt Hood. If you feel like heading further out then head to the Columbia River Gorge. Stretching 80 miles, it's within short distance from Portland. From the awe-inspiring waterfalls to the basalt cliffs and the famous Columbia gorge highway, you will be spoilt for choice here. Pair it with Mt Hood for a great few days outside of Portland, or base yourself in Portland and have the best of both worlds!

For more inspiration, visit our USA Holidays pages.