Not surprisingly, a meandering drive along Highway 101 counts as a highlight for travelers to the Oregon Coast. Though the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway runs the entire length of the state's shore, from Brookings to Astoria, the most dramatic stretch is the first 50 miles (part of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor) that winds past wind-swept rocky promontories and high above the spray cast by crashing surf. In season, spot the occasional whale spouting off in  deeper waters from one of the route's eleven viewpoints. Start in  Brookings and follow 101 over the Rogue River's gushing mouth  to Port Orford.

For a closer look at the trills and frills of the Rogue River, take a scenic detour inland from Gold  Beach, looping along the Rogue-Coquille Scenic Byway past both the Rogue and Coquille Rivers before steering back to Bandon on the coast - just keep in mind that part of this route can close seasonally.

Scenic drives to consider in the Brookings area are listed below. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information.