7 Unique West Coast Winter Activities You’ll Actually Want to Try

Tired of the same old winter routines? The West Coast is brimming with unexpected adventures that’ll shake up your season and leave you with stories to tell. From outdoor thrills to quirky experiences, here are seven winter activities you won’t want to miss.


1. Storm Watching on the Oregon Coast

Shore Acres State Park in Coos County, Oregon” by Only in Oregon is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Winter storms bring epic waves and dramatic skies to the Oregon coastline. Head to spots like Cannon Beach or Depoe Bay for front-row seats to nature’s wild show. Bring a warm drink, a cozy blanket, and watch the Pacific flex its muscles.


2. Snow Camping in the Sierra Nevada

Mount Whitney (Tumanguya) Through The Mobius Arch” by RS2Photography is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

For those who love an adventurous challenge, snow camping offers a whole new way to experience the Sierra Nevada mountains. Build your own snow shelter, enjoy the serene winter landscape, and wake up to a pristine snowy sunrise. Just make sure to gear up properly!

GET THE ULTIMATE WEST COAST 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!


3. Whale Watching Along the Coast

A whale breeching with a tour boat in the background.

Gray whales migrate south along the West Coast during winter, making it the perfect time to spot these gentle giants. Join a boat tour in Monterey Bay, the San Juan Islands, or Newport, Oregon, for a chance to see them up close.


4. Sandboarding at the Oregon Dunes

Sandboarding” by Surfing The Nations is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Who says you need snow for a thrill? Head to the Oregon Dunes near Florence and try sandboarding down massive hills of soft sand. It’s a year-round activity that feels even more refreshing in the crisp winter air.


5. Hot Air Ballooning Over Wine Country

yellow, green, and black hot air balloon on sky
Photo by Kupono Kuwamura on Unsplash

While winter may not seem like hot air balloon season, it’s actually a fantastic time to soar over California’s wine regions. Cooler temperatures mean clearer skies, and the views of snow-capped mountains paired with vineyard rows are unforgettable.


6. Ice Skating at an Outdoor Rink

person wearing white leather boots
Photo by weston m on Unsplash

From Seattle’s Winterfest to Union Square in San Francisco, the West Coast has plenty of charming outdoor ice-skating rinks. Glide under twinkling lights, sip some hot cocoa, and soak in the festive atmosphere.


7. Snowshoeing in Olympic National Park

person in black jacket and black pants standing on snow covered ground during daytime
Photo by Taylor Brandon on Unsplash

If you’ve never tried snowshoeing, Olympic National Park is the place to start. Hurricane Ridge offers stunning views and beginner-friendly trails. It’s an easy way to enjoy the snowy wilderness without needing expert skills.

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!*

GET THE ULTIMATE WEST COAST 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!

West Coast Map with heart icons pinned with lots of things to do on the West Coast.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *