closest airport to oregon coast

3 min read 16-12-2024

The Oregon Coast is a breathtaking stretch of rugged beauty, dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches. Planning a trip requires considering the best way to get there, and that often means finding the nearest airport. This guide will help you determine the closest airport to your desired location along the Oregon Coast, as there isn't one single "closest" airport for the entire coastline.

Which Oregon Coast Airport is Right for You?

The Oregon Coast stretches over 363 miles, so the closest airport will depend on your specific destination. Several airports serve different sections of the coast, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

1. Portland International Airport (PDX)

Location: Portland, Oregon (approximately 45-150 miles from various points on the coast)
Advantages: PDX is the largest airport in Oregon, offering the most flight options and often the cheapest fares. It's a major hub with many connections.
Disadvantages: It's a significant drive to many coastal destinations, especially those in the southern part of the coast. Travel time can range from a couple of hours to over four, depending on traffic and your exact destination. Consider renting a car for maximum flexibility.

2. North Bend Municipal Airport (OTH)

Location: North Bend, Oregon (Serves Southern Oregon Coast)
Advantages: This smaller airport is much closer to the southern Oregon coast towns of Coos Bay and North Bend, significantly reducing your travel time.
Disadvantages: Fewer flight options and potentially higher fares compared to PDX. Likely to require connecting flights.

3. Newport State Airport (ONP)

Location: Newport, Oregon (Serves Central Oregon Coast)
Advantages: Much closer to Newport and the surrounding area in the central Oregon coast. Reduces travel time compared to PDX.
Disadvantages: Very limited flight options; likely only offers chartered or private flights.

4. Astoria Regional Airport (AST)

Location: Astoria, Oregon (Serves Northern Oregon Coast)
Advantages: Convenient for those visiting Astoria and the northern Oregon coast. Shorter drive than from Portland.
Disadvantages: Limited flight options, primarily serving smaller regional airlines. You may need a connecting flight.

Choosing Your Airport: Factors to Consider

Your Budget: PDX generally offers the most affordable flights but adds travel time and car rental costs. Smaller airports are closer but may be more expensive to fly into.
Your Destination: This is the most important factor. Identify your specific town or area on the Oregon Coast to determine which airport is geographically closest. Use an online mapping tool to compare driving times from each airport.
Flight Availability: Consider the frequency of flights and airline options from your origin city. Larger airports like PDX offer greater flexibility.
Rental Car Needs: Unless you're relying on ride-sharing or public transportation (which is limited in some areas), a rental car will likely be necessary, especially if flying into PDX.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the closest airport to Cannon Beach?

A: Portland International Airport (PDX) is generally the most convenient airport for Cannon Beach, even though it requires a drive of approximately 90 minutes.

Q: What's the best airport to fly into for the Oregon Coast's southern region?

A: North Bend Municipal Airport (OTH) is the closest to Coos Bay and North Bend. However, it has fewer flight options than PDX.

Q: Are there any airports directly on the Oregon Coast?

A: While there are smaller airports along the coast (like ONP and AST), they have extremely limited flight options and are typically only served by smaller airlines or private flights. For most travelers, PDX remains the most practical option.

Planning Your Oregon Coast Adventure

Choosing the right airport is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable Oregon Coast trip. By considering factors like budget, destination, flight availability, and car rental needs, you can make the best choice and focus on exploring the breathtaking beauty of Oregon's coastline. Remember to book your flights and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons!