Many travelers have taken to Oregon to drive along the infamous US Highway 101 that is nestled along the Pacific Coast. There are many beautiful beach villages along this stretch of scenic highway, and Brookings is the southernmost of these towns in Oregon. It is arguably one of the most photogenic coastal destinations in all of Oregon.

Brookings is the quintessential coastal city -- a hidden gem along the Oregon coast that will feel like stepping into a dream when you visit. As soon as you arrive at the coast, gorgeous oceanic views meet your eyes.

With its golden sandy beaches and sweeping ocean vistas, Brookings makes for the perfect coastal destination. Whether you enjoy boating, fishing, whale watching, hiking, photography, or simply basking in the warm sun while the ocean breeze caresses your skin, you'll find plenty of activities to choose from as you plan your weekend adventure.

Grab your camera and make your way to the coast at sunrise or sunset. Many sea stacks dot the coastline and create lots of visual interest for photographers.

Take a scenic drive 12 miles north on the US-101 Highway that hugs the Oregon Coast toward Secret Beach. This is one of many beautiful beaches near Brookings that is worth photographing during twilight hours. It is well worth the 14-minute drive.

Oregon is well known for its lush forested landscape, and there is plenty of it to explore at the Alfred A. Loeb State Park.

Accessible via an 8.2-mile drive northeast of Brookings, the Alfred A. Loeb State Park offers a stunning array of forested trails to explore along the Chetco River. In addition to hiking through the Redwood and Myrtlewood Trees, camping, fishing, and kayaking are popular activities for visitors and locals alike.

The Loeb Park Riverview Trail is one of several hiking trails that is nestled in the Alfred Loeb State Park. As its name suggests, the scenic views along the Chetco River make this forested trail a journey worth taking.

Generally regarded as an easy trail, this 1.2-mile hike is one that even the beginner hiker can complete in about 30 minutes. Be sure to allow time for photos and birdwatching along the way. You can bring your furry friends with you on this trail, just be sure to keep them on a leash in accordance with the rules.

One of the highest-rated restaurants in Brookings, the Superfly Martini Bar and Grill offers an eclectic and lively atmosphere and delicious food options for everyone.

Stop by for brunch and enjoy a refreshing Sunrise Mimosa or spicy Bloody Mary, or enjoy one of 10 flavorful martinis over dinner at the Superfly Martini Bar and Grill. They offer a variety of menu options, several of which accommodate most diets including vegan and gluten-free.

You'll not want to miss an opportunity to stop by Brookings' cherished Chetco Brewing Company. The carefully crafted cold brews, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly staff await to make your craft beer-tasting experience a memorable one.

A beloved staple of this quaint coastal community, Chetco Brewing Company offers a wide variety of robust and flavorful vegan beer options for the craft beer enthusiast to sample. This relaxed, pet-friendly atmosphere is a wonderful way to wind down after a long day of adventuring with a couple of cold beers. Don't forget to grab a bite from the Off The Wagon food truck right in front of the tap room.

The Beachfront Inn is not your ordinary lodging experience. After all, it's not every day that you wake up with the Pacific Ocean right outside your window.

Let the warm ocean breeze and the sounds of softly crashing ocean waves drift right into your window at the Beachfront Inn, situated right on the sands of Sport Haven Beach in Brookings. Every room in the hotel offers a stunning ocean view. You can even upgrade to a whirlpool suite and enjoy a luxurious soak after the day's activities. This is one of the top-rated hotels in town with guests raving about the friendliness of the staff, the fantastic breakfast, and an unbeatable ocean view.

Have you visited Brookings, Oregon? We'd love to hear what you thought of this charming little coastal village in the comments below. If you plan on visiting soon, be sure to stop by this local seafood favorite or perhaps try to view sea lions at this gorgeous beach just a few miles north of town.