The 9 Most Overrated West Coast Attractions (And What to Do Instead)
Let’s face it: not every “must-see” travel spot actually delivers. Some are overhyped, overcrowded, or just not worth the parking nightmare. The West Coast is full of iconic places—but also full of better, less-chaotic alternatives that give you the same vibe without the regret.
Here are 9 West Coast attractions that kinda miss the mark—and what to do instead if you want a better experience (and probably better photos too).
Table of Contents
- 1. Hollywood Walk of Fame (California)
- 2. Multnomah Falls (Oregon)
- 3. Fisherman’s Wharf (San Francisco)
- 4. Cannon Beach (in peak summer) (Oregon)
- 5. Venice Beach Boardwalk (California)
- 6. Seattle’s Gum Wall (Washington)
- 7. Alcatraz Island (on a foggy day) (California)
- 8. Voodoo Doughnut (Portland)
- 9. Pier 39 (San Francisco)
- MORE ON THE WEST COAST:
1. Hollywood Walk of Fame (California)
Why it’s overrated: Dirty sidewalks, endless souvenir shops, and zero actual magic.
Do this instead: Head to Griffith Observatory. You’ll get iconic views of the Hollywood Sign, a cool museum, and no one will try to sell you a bootleg Spider-Man selfie.
2. Multnomah Falls (Oregon)
Why it’s overrated: Multnomah Falls is gorgeous, yes—but always packed, and the parking situation is pure chaos.
Do this instead: Check out Latourell Falls or Wahclella Falls nearby. Just as beautiful, way less crowded, and you can actually enjoy the sound of rushing water without hearing 10 different languages of TikTok narration around you.
📍 GET THE ULTIMATE PNW MAP 🗺️
Get our curated list of the best adventures, things to do, and places to grab a brew loaded onto your maps with just two clicks!
✅ Waterfalls ✅ Hikes ✅ Viewpoints
✅ Craft breweries ✅ National Parks ✅ 1400+ Pins
📍 GET THE ULTIMATE PNW MAP 🗺️
Get our curated list of the best adventures, things to do, and places to grab a brew loaded onto your maps with just two clicks!
✅ Waterfalls ✅ Hikes ✅ Viewpoints
✅ Craft breweries ✅ National Parks ✅ 1400+ Pins
3. Fisherman’s Wharf (San Francisco)
Why it’s overrated: Tourist trap central. Mediocre food, overpriced merch, and enough crowds to make you question your life choices.
Do this instead: Walk over to North Beach or the Ferry Building for better food, local flavor, and views that aren’t clogged with souvenir shops.
4. Cannon Beach (in peak summer) (Oregon)
Why it’s overrated: Yes, Haystack Rock is iconic—but in July? It’s elbow-to-elbow on the sand.
Do this instead: Head to Manzanita or Oswald West State Park just south. Same dramatic coast, fewer crowds, and better parking odds.
5. Venice Beach Boardwalk (California)
Why it’s overrated: It’s more chaotic than cool now. Lots of noise, not much charm.
Do this instead: Try Abbot Kinney Boulevard for stylish shops, food, and still plenty of people-watching—just less in-your-face weirdness.
6. Seattle’s Gum Wall (Washington)
Why it’s overrated: It’s… a wall of chewed gum. Kinda gross, tbh.
Do this instead: Walk to Kerry Park for that postcard view of Seattle, or explore the Ballard Locks if you want something unique and less sticky.
7. Alcatraz Island (on a foggy day) (California)
Why it’s overrated: Expensive ferry ticket + zero views = meh.
Do this instead: If you don’t care about the audio tour, do a Bay Cruise or walk the Land’s End Trail for killer views of the Golden Gate and Alcatraz without the hassle.
*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*
8. Voodoo Doughnut (Portland)
Why it’s overrated: Wildly long lines for mediocre doughnuts covered in cereal.
Do this instead: Hit up Blue Star Donuts or Doe Donuts for better-tasting treats made with local ingredients (and way less waiting).
9. Pier 39 (San Francisco)
Why it’s overrated: Crowds, chain restaurants, and the same T-shirt in 10 different stores.
Do this instead: Check out Crissy Field or Baker Beach for scenic views, fewer people, and actual Bay Area charm.
MORE ON THE WEST COAST:
READ MORE: The Best of Oregon
READ MORE: The Best of Washington
READ MORE: The Best of California
*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*
