Labor Day Weekend Travel Trips, Advice for Oregon Coast, 2025

Published 08/30/25 at 7:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Florence, Oregon) - It's going to be an interesting weekend.

As Labor Day Weekend approaches, thousands of travelers are expected to descend on the Oregon coast in search of a final summer escape. But in a twist of irony, the quest to “get away from it all” often means bringing the chaos with them. The holiday marks the unofficial end of the tourist season, ushering in a surge of visitors, crowded beaches, and sharply rising hotel rates.

Despite the influx, there are ways to encounter tranquility. Less-traveled areas along the north coast offer some relief from the crowds, while the southern coast - particularly beyond Florence - tends to be quieter and more remote. See Getting Away from the Crowds: A Sampler of Truly Hidden Oregon Coast.

In the meantime, here's several bits of Labor Day travel advice for the coastline.

For those planning a coastal getaway, travel experts advise packing extra clothing, especially for day trips. Wet shoes and soaked pants are common after a day near the surf or an unexpected tumble into a stream. Being prepared can make the return trip far more comfortable.

Gas prices remain relatively stable heading into the weekend. AAA reports the national average for regular fuel has risen six cents to $3.19 per gallon, while Oregon’s average holds at $3.98.

Motorists are urged to fill up before leaving town.

“Labor Day travel promises to be busy this year, capping off a record-setting summer for travel,” AAA said in a recent bulletin. “AAA booking data shows that Alaska cruises, theme parks, Central Oregon and the Oregon Coast are the most popular destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho.”

Also, be mindful of speed traps, particularly along Highway 26 and Highway 18. Law enforcement presence is expected to be heavy, especially near passing lanes and the rest stop on Highway 26’s western slope. Traffic congestion is likely to peak Friday and Monday during morning and afternoon hours. Travelers who delay their return until dusk on Monday may find a smoother ride.

Highway 101 on the south coast will see some congestion in towns like Bandon and Port Orford, though not to the extent of the northern corridor. Notable choke points include the Cape Arago Highway south of Coos Bay, northern Newport, Lincoln City, and the stretch just south of Seaside.

Full traffic for Oregon Coast Range and Highway 101 are found here. Oregon Coast Highway, Coast Range Passes Traffic, Road Conditions | Portland, Oregon Highway Traffic, Road Conditions - Traffic Cams: I-5 - I-205 - I-405 - Hwy 217 - I-84

Weather: look for the 60s and lower 70s on the north and central coast, but farther south - especially Brookings - you'll be encountering the 80s later in the weekend. See for Washington Coast weather. Washington Coast Weather - Oregon Coast Weather  - Inland Oregon Weather

Above: Coos Bay, photo courtesy Manuela Durson Fine Arts

Securing lodging or campsites at this stage will be challenging. Most accommodations have been booked well in advance, and any remaining hotel rooms may come at a steep premium - often triple or quadruple the usual rate. Last-minute cancellations may offer a slim chance, but travelers are advised to check booking sites and follow up with direct calls to confirm availability. See the Oregon Coast Availability page.

Camping options are similarly limited. While most sites are full, some county and municipal campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can consult Oregon Coast Camping resources for potential openings.

Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours

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