Oregon's Unique Coastal City Was Ranked America's Top Remote Destination For 2026

If you've ever watched a movie that takes place in a remote location with sweeping views and thought, "I could live there," you're not alone. According to vacation rental booking platform HomeToGo, cinephiles are paying close attention to the beautiful locations they see in films. It seems like the more rugged and remote the locations appear on screen, the more likely that visitors will book a stay. Along Oregon's coast, the dramatic cliffs and choppy waters of the Pacific Ocean along Depoe Bay have piqued the interest of many travelers, placing it among the top remote destinations in the world, and making it the No. 1 remote spot in the U.S., for 2026.

According to HomeToGo, Depoe Bay, Oregon, is getting a lot of attention from vacationers for the untamed energy it offers. The small town has shops along a highway that overlooks the cliffs of the Pacific coast, and plenty of restaurants offering up fresh seafood. It's also a part of Oregon's Film Trail, as it was featured in the 1975 film "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." It's just one of many popular Oregon tourist attractions you can't miss on your next trip to the state.

The remoteness of Depoe Bay is also an attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. Caves and coves along the shoreline are a popular tourist destination for adventurers, and fishing charters run regularly from the city. Another top activity in Depoe Bay is whale watching.

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay is situated along a large seawall overlooking the waves of the Pacific Ocean. There, volunteers are readily available to assist in spotting whales and answering all your questions; the center is open from March through December. Gray whales are the most commonly seen species, as they migrate through the bay as they travel between Alaska and Mexico. However, dolphins, blue whales, and humpback whales are also seen passing by.

That's a lot of sea mammal traffic for what is said to be the world's smallest harbor. And the harbor comes by that name naturally. Covering approximately 6 acres, the harbor in Depoe Bay is the heart of the town's community. And while the town is certainly remote, public spaces and trails provide even more opportunities to get away. Expansive trails that lead to lookout points along the coast give locals and visitors alike a look at those windswept cliffs that have placed the town on HomeToGo's list. Trails also lead to coves and caves near the harbor which can be explored during low tide. 

Depoe Bay is among several towns along Oregon's coast that offer impressive views of the ocean and its wildlife. Pacific City, for instance, is one such coastal gem with a panoramic beach. Of course, the views accessible when you visit Depoe Bay or any of Oregon's coastal cities will greatly depend upon the weather, so it's important to plan accordingly.

Depoe Bay is 100 miles from Portland, home to one of the United States' most beautiful botanical gardens. So while it is certainly remote, it's accessible. Summers are typically the busiest months in the town because that's the height of whale migrating season. But exploring Depoe Bay is an adventure no matter the time of year. Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint provides miles-long views of the ocean, incoming storms, and local wildlife. Nearby, Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint reminds visitors of just how challenging life on the ocean can be. From this remote viewpoint, guests can see the remains of a ship that sank here in 1910. Boats are available for hire if you're interested in some deep-sea fishing, and reservations are recommended, especially in busier months. 

Fortunately, there are restaurants and accommodations available any time of year. Hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, cabins, and campgrounds are all within reach of Depoe Bay and make staying in the area possible for most budgets. At the Portland International Airport (PDX), travelers have access to a number of rental car options, ride shares, and taxis. Smaller chartered flights can utilize Newport, Oregon's Municipal Airport, just 18 miles outside of Depoe Bay.