$838,238Average Value$399Average Price per Sq Ft19Homes For Sale
Depoe Bay has a whale of a reputation for its Oregon coast location
Depoe Bay is where whales count as neighbors and striking views of the Pacific Ocean are a part of daily life. This small community is nicknamed the whale-watching capital of the Oregon coast, a prime spot to see migrating whales in the winter and spring and a hub for resident whales throughout much of the rest of the year. Thousands of whales pass by the area’s rocky coast annually, and numerous tourists visit to see them. Farther inland, Depoe Bay offers home buyers a diverse mix of options scattered along a series of calm, winding streets. “It’s a very nice, small community,” says Scott Arehart, a local Realtor with Coldwell Banker Professional Group who has almost 20 years of industry experience. “It’s basically a touristy area, but it’s very pleasant and quiet once you get off of Highway 101.”
Depoe Bay boasts beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and attracts a good number of whale watching tourists.
Depoe Bay's inlet homes feature a variety of coastal and craftsman styles with porch views.
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Dramatic landscapes double as spots for outdoor entertainment
The postcard-like vistas in Depoe Bay unfold along Highway 101, also known as the Oregon Coast Highway. This is where the ocean gleams as far as the eye can see, just off a jagged shoreline. “One aspect that’s kind of striking about Depoe Bay is that a good portion of it is just the salt rock, as opposed to sandy beaches,” Arehart says. Spots to stop and take in the views on Highway 101 include Depoe Bay Scenic Park and the Depoe Bay Whale Park, where there are multiple picnic tables to sit. The Whale Watching Center down the road offers an observation deck for whale spotting. Depoe Bay attracts an abundance of gray whales during their migration travels, and prime viewing times include Winter Whale Watch Week in late December and Spring Whale Watch Week in late March. “It coincides with spring break, which is a big time,” Arehart says. “Lots of people from different areas of Oregon and different states come.” People can also spot resident whales in the area throughout the summer and into the fall, which stick around for the food available along the coast.
Depoe Bay’s coastal location makes fishing a popular pastime as well. Anglers trek out into the ocean for deep-sea fishing, seeking tuna and salmon, Arehart says. The community’s boat harbor is known as the smallest of its kind in the world, stretching just 6 acres, with a 50-foot channel leading to the ocean. Hiking is another favorite for some in the area — Depoe Bay’s almost 170-acre Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area features multiple trails and beaches.
The majority of Depoe Bay's landscape is actually Basalt Rock creating a dramatic impact for King Tides.
Depoe Bay residents can ship out of the smallest harbor in the world and fishing is popular past time.
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Coastal homes come in a variety of shapes and sizes
The varied terrain around Depoe Bay cradles an eclectic mix of houses. There are homes here that date to the 1930s and ones built recently. Some properties offer ocean views, while others are tucked amongst lush vegetation in Depoe Bay’s more interior streets. Many houses around Depoe Bay have Craftsman style elements. “Very different price points,” Arehart says of Depoe Bay’s market. “Some that are in beautiful locations can be older homes. And then there are some newer ones. It’s usually reflected in the price. Ocean view and how good it is is always a huge factor in pricing.” Traditional single-family homes sell for $300,000 to more than $1 million based on the age and location. Depoe Bay also has an assortment of condos, most lined along the coast and priced from $250,000 to $900,000. Retirees and those seeking a second home make up a significant portion of the buyer pool, Arehart says.
Homes sit atop the dramatic rocky seaside in Depoe Bay.
Many homes in Depoe Bay feature Craftsman elements.
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Fleet of Flowers recognizes legacy of sailors
Depoe Bay’s harbor is the site of an annual tradition that dates back almost 80 years. The community hosts Fleet of Flowers at the harbor each Memorial Day, a remembrance of those lost at sea. Locals gather to watch a procession of flower-clad boats, led by the Coast Guard, and passengers drop memorial wreaths into the water as they journey from the harbor to the ocean.
The Fleet of Flowers is hosted in the Depoe Bay Harbor.
The Coast Guard leads a procession of flower clad boats for the Fleet of Flowers.
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Seafood has a big influence on Depoe Bay's dining scene
Highway 101 is the hub of commercial activity in Depoe Bay, with restaurants and shops. The community’s oceanside location means seafood is easy to find. Tidal Raves is a hotspot perched on a cliff above the water. “Tidal Raves is a very good restaurant — it’s always full,” Arehart says. Gracie’s Sea Hag is an institution, Arehart says, that has been open since 1963 and is known for its clam chowder. Stores along the highway range from Ainslee's Salt Water Taffy to clothing and home goods boutique Unique and Knotty. The closest grocery store is Chester’s Markets, about 4 miles north in the nearby community of Lincoln Beach.
Depoe Bay residents enjoy delicious American seafood dishes and views of the stark seascape at Tidal Raves.
Unique and Knotty boutique features a well curated collection of timeless apparel and locally crafted items.
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Music is a common thread in area schools
Kids in Depoe Bay can attend Lincoln County School District schools, which carry a C-plus grade on Niche. The C-plus-rated Oceanlake Elementary includes kindergarten through second grade and has a music program that puts on performances in the winter and spring. Taft Elementary carries a C grade, serves students in grades 3 through 6 and offers a band program. Taft 7-12 encompasses a C-plus-rated middle school and a C-rated high school, and features a jazz band and a choir.
Taft Elementary in Lincoln City, Oregon carries a C grade on Niche.
Taft high school is one of the 11 traditional schools students can attend in the Lincoln City School District.
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Highway 101 is a way out of town
Highway 101, in addition to its views and dining opportunities, is the primary avenue for drivers to get out of town and to other spots along the coast. The roadway spans 363 miles and is a single-lane route most of the way. Drivers may encounter the “spouting horn” effect along Highway 101 in Depoe Bay when high and choppy waters crash against the rough coastline and spray the road. “If you’re driving down the road and you hit it at the right time, it goes up in the air and clear across 101 to get some of the shops across the street wet,” Arehart says. “It comes along with the king tides and the high tides.”
Written By
Wayne Epps Jr.
Photography Contributed By
Elizabeth James
Video By
Melinda Anselmo
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Depoe Bay, OR sell after 112 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Depoe Bay, OR over the last 12 months is $612,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Positioned at the center of Phase 1 in Depoe Hills, this exceptional collection of five turnkey townhomes presents a rare investment opportunity on the Oregon Coast. Located just minutes from Depoe Bay, but perched hundreds of feet up the hillside, these townhomes feature commanding ocean views to the north and west. The offering includes two spacious end units with 3 bedrooms, along with three
Sheila JonesCascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty
Embrace the ultimate coastal lifestyle in this premier oceanview townhome, perfectly positioned in one of Depoe Bay's most sought-after locations for a serene retirement or a luxurious second-home getaway. Reverse living layout with ocean true ocean views from main and upper levels and a bonus flex room in the daylight basement below. Built in 1997 with thoughtful updates along the way this
Josh ReedCascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty
Enjoy the coastal lifestyle in this charming cottage home in the timeless neighborhood of Bella Beach on the beautiful Oregon Coast. This inviting retreat blends classic coastal charm with modern comfort, offering the perfect getaway or full-time residence. Step onto the covered front porch or back deck and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Unwind after a day at the beach in the private hot tub
Charming coastal retreat in the heart of Depoe Bay! This lovely 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath beach home offers a peek of the harbor and is just blocks from downtown, the marina, and local attractions. Thoughtfully updated, the home features a full concrete perimeter foundation, durable Hardiplank siding, and fresh exterior paint, along with a NEW ROOF with a transferable warranty, providing both peace of
OWN THE HORIZON. 4 Weeks of Oceanfront Luxury in Depoe Bay. Stop dreaming and start owning. This isn't just a condo; it's your front-row seat to the most dramatic coastline in Oregon. This 1/13th deeded fractional share at The Resort at Whale Pointe grants you 4 weeks of pure coastal bliss every year—without the million-dollar price tag or the maintenance headaches. As a deeded owner, you can
Stunning single-level Searidge condo featuring sweeping ocean views from the living room, dining area, kitchen, and primary suite. The main living spaces showcase beautiful cedar ceilings, while the living room offers a cozy gas fireplace, wet bar, and direct access to the deck—perfect for soaking in sunsets and seasonal whale watching from indoors or out. The updated kitchen includes ceramic
Enjoy the best of the Oregon Coast in this Lincoln Beach manufactured home just north of Depoe Bay and only a 350’ walk to the beach! Set on an oversized .33-acre double lot, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers space, comfort, and a true coastal lifestyle. Depoe Bay is known for whale watching, the world’s smallest natural navigable harbor, dramatic cliffside views, and charming coastal character.
Set along a coveted stretch of coastline, this fully updated oceanfront residence offers a rare combination of refined living and income potential. Positioned atop ancient basalt rock, the home captures expansive west-facing views with both northern and southern coastline perspectives, where migrating whales, shifting weather patterns, and the ever-changing Oregon sky, from vibrant sunsets to
Great hillside home just above downtown Depoe Bay with beautiful southern mountain views and a peek of the ocean. The living room has a cozy gas fireplace and opens to the upper deck. The kitchen features cherry cabinets, granite counters, hardwood floors, gas range, pantry, and stainless steel appliances. Main-level primary bedroom makes for easy living, with two more bedrooms and a bonus/flex
Welcome to the Cove at Otter Crest Loop. Enjoy an unequaled view of the cove and ocean from this well-built home on nearly an acre. Perched on solid rock just above the waves one feels and hears the constant rhythm of the ocean. The view the ocean and the historic Ben Jones Bridge is unobstructed and you are screened from neighbors. Inside, the open floorplan lets you take in your surroundings.
Brett VeatchBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices NW Real Estate
Come experience the View of Views! 180~ degrees of dazzling Ocean and a commanding view of the entire Depoe Bay. Sparkling water, Storm driven waves thundering over the rocky point. And sunsets, Sunsets, SUNSETS year round. Always something new and exciting. Boats coming and going from the “world’s smallest harbor” Majestic whales showing off, Happy lazy seals lounging on the rocks below, Ocean
Welcome to effortless coastal living in the desirable Searidge community of Lincoln City. If you've been searching for a main-level vacation retreat or second home with a truly captivating ocean surf view, this beautifully positioned 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo delivers. Designed for comfort and relaxation, the home features warm cedar ceilings, a cozy gas fireplace, and an inviting dining room
Unlock the potential of the Oregon Coast with this versatile 3-bedroom modern farmhouse in the Whale Watch neighborhood in Depoe Hills. A standout opportunity in a market where rental flexibility is rare, this home is fully short-term rental friendly which makes it perfect as an investment or a dual-purpose second home. The floor plan is functional and flexible with a primary suite on the main
Bordering protected open space, this short term rental friendly home offers a light-filled perspective on coastal luxury within the Whale Watch neighborhood of Depoe Hills. The residence is defined by its connection to the Pacific, featuring two expansive decks positioned for ocean views and front-row whale watching. Inside, the main level serves as a bright and airy social hub, where the kitchen
This RV park is a perfect blend of nature and modern amenities. Located just across from the ocean, it offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding forest. The park is immaculately maintained and provides a clean and welcoming environment for all guests. If you are looking for a long term stay, this park has something to offer everyone. With laundry facilities and
Oregon Coast Property Management$2600 Monthly $5200 Security Deposit.Tenant Occupied - 24hr Notice Required 3bed, 2bath home, 1 car garage, gas fireplace, granite counters, stainless steel appliances,w/d hook ups, located in a private gated community in Depoe Bay that includes 40 acres of common area, and many miles of roads and paved or wooden paths that meander through
This RV park is a perfect blend of nature and modern amenities. Located just across from the ocean, it offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding forest. The park is immaculately maintained and provides a clean and welcoming environment for all guests. If you are looking for a long term stay, this park has something to offer everyone. With laundry facilities and
Discover your new sanctuary in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom Apartment, perfectly designed for comfort and convenience. Step inside to find a cozy living area that invites relaxation and creativity. Natural light floods the space, highlighting the fresh finishes and inviting ambiance. The well-appointed kitchen offers ample counter space, making meal preparation a delight. With washer and
Oregon Coast Property Management LLC$1100 Monthly $2200 Security Deposit2bd/2ba unit in Lincoln Beach area close to grocery store and just down the street from the beach.Please read and agree to our policy and procedures prior to scheduling a showing.Tenant occupied, 24 Hour notice required for showings.Complex Washer/DryerStove
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