9 Oldest Founded Small Towns to Visit on the Pacific Coast

The Pacific or West Coast of the US was a choice region for early pioneers who found it viable for settlements and hoped they would find gold. Spanish, British, and French explorers all moved west of the Pacific in search of treasures, founding some of the oldest towns in the US in the process. Hence, the Pacific Coast flaunts a proud early settlement history, while its coastal beauty remains a draw. From the charming coasts of Oregon to the mountains of Washington, history weaves through natural beauty in these nine oldest towns on the West Coast.

Port Angeles, Washington

Like most areas on the Pacific Coast, the earliest-known inhabitants of the area now known as Port Angeles were Native Americans including the Klallam and Makah tribes. In the 1850s, European settlers began moving into the area, and by 1890, the town was incorporated and it soon became a hub of milling and tourism. While here today, soak up the town’s history and that of its native Klallam inhabitants at the Elwha Klallam Carnegie Museum.

Proceed to the Olympic Coast Discovery Center to learn about the area’s maritime history and embark on several guided adventures on the water and nearby trails. For more history, head to the Port Angeles Underground Heritage Tour to listen to stories and explore shallow tunnels. Afterward, relax and recharge at Grayson’s Port Angeles with delectable meals.

Newport, Oregon

Newport is a charming town on the Pacific Coast, with white settlements dating back to 1866, after Yacona tribes had inhabited the land for years. The town was incorporated in 1882, and today, it is a charming destination for history buffs. The Pacific Maritime Heritage Center is a foremost historic attraction in the town today, housing art and history interactive exhibits, an operational wharf, and various history programs. Along Yaquina Bay, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is also a great place to see marine exhibits and wonder at nature’s diversity.

History enthusiasts can also visit the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, the town’s oldest structure, built in 1872, and Burrows House, a Queen-Anne Victorian home built in 1895. Elsewhere, the outdoors comes alive at Nye and Cobble Beaches, where waves clash onto rocky shores, and sightseeing promenades are fun. Before leaving, grab antiques for souvenirs at Pirate's Plunder.

Florence, Oregon

Florence is a picturesque Pacific Coast town along the Siuslaw River, established in 1909. Notably, the town has no ties to its Italian namesake and some believe it was named after Senator A.B Florence, who once represented Lane County, or a French vessel that wrecked at the mouth of the Siuslaw River. Regardless of its name’s origin, this town remains a must-visit town as it is one of the oldest towns on the Pacific Coast. While here, kick off an unforgettable historical adventure by visiting the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum to immerse in the region’s early history.

Next, stroll through the Historic Old Town of Florence to explore iconic buildings, shop, and dine with great views. Admire the historic Siuslaw River Bridge and then storm the Oregon Coast Military Museum to see military artifacts and life-sized dioramas reflecting various wars. If there is still time, hike to the nearby Heceta Head Lighthouse to get inspired by dreamy coastal scenery.

Fort Bragg, California

The area now known as Fort Bragg was first inhabited by Native people, particularly the Pomo. Around 1856, rapid Westward expansion brought European American settlers to the area, and in 1857, a military outpost was established to maintain order. The settlement grew from then and by 1889, Fort Bragg was incorporated. Visitors to this town today can learn more about its past at the Guest House Museum (built in 1892) or check out the Triangle Tattoo and Museum, which showcases the history of tattoos in artifacts and informational exhibits.

Also, head to the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad Museum to learn about the county’s railroad history. Outdoors, visit Glass Beach to see household items like glass dumped by locals, and don't forget to dine at Sea Pal Cove Restaurant when hungry.

Seaside, Oregon

Seaside is a charming town on the Pacific Coast with one of the most interesting origin stories in America. Once inhabited by the Clastop Native American tribe, the area came to the limelight when the Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived. Around 1809, members of the expedition obtained salt by boiling ocean water on a local beach. Several decades later in 1899, the town was incorporated and today, the Seaside Museum invites visitors to learn more about its history and tour the historic Butterfield Cottage.

Visitors can also check out the End of the Trail Lewis and Clark Statue in the downtown area which honors the expedition that brought the town to the limelight. Meanwhile, the Seaside Aquarium is a stone's throw from the monument, featuring 100 species of marine exhibits, including sea stars, crabs, and a 35-foot gray whale skeleton. For a break from history, visitors can head to the Seaside Beach to unwind by sunbathing, picnicking, and promenading. Hit the Beach Club Tavern afterward for fine dining experiences.

Westport, Washington

The beautiful area now known as Westport was initially inhabited by the Chehalis Tribe but that changed around the late 1700s and mid-1800s when Europeans began visiting. Unfortunately, this contact led to an outbreak of diseases in the locality and many natives died of smallpox. In 1857, the first European settlers arrived, and by 1914 the town was incorporated after which it became a vibrant fishing hub. Today, the town’s rich maritime history is preserved at the Westport Maritime Museum while the Grays Harbor Lighthouse stands as a testament to the area’s popularity. At 107 feet tall, this lighthouse is the tallest in Washington State and was built between 1897 and 1898. Visitors are welcome to ascend the lighthouse’s 136 steps to the lantern house for stunning views.

For something different, grace the International Mermaid Museum to learn about marine science and mermaid mythology. For outdoor buffs, explore the Westport Light State Park overlooking the ocean and hike, picnic, fish, or bask in the ocean views. While leaving, grab souvenirs and candies for the kids at the Granny Hazel.

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka, a former Russian city, is not just historic but also represents the largest town in the US by land area. The area was first settled by Tlingit Indians and later Russian explorers in 1799. In 1867, Sitka became the site where the historic Alaska Purchase was sealed and it served as the territorial capital for nearly 40 years.

Today, the town retains much of its historic glow in structures such as the St. Michael’s Cathedral (1848), the Russian Bishop’s House (1841-1843), and Sitka Lutheran Church - the first protestant church on the Pacific Coast. Find out more about the town's history and Tinglit natives at the Sitka Historical Museum and don’t miss a visit to the Castle Hill, where Russia officially transferred Alaska to the US.

Astoria, Oregon

Astoria is the oldest town in Oregon, founded in 1811 when the Pacific Fur Company built a fort along the banks of the Columbia River. It was named after Jacob Astor, who owned the company. Subsequently, Astoria blossomed as a Port City, becoming the first permanent American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. As a port town today, the Columbia River Maritime Museum is a major draw for history buffs, offering insights into the town’s maritime journey spanning over two centuries.

Meanwhile, the Heritage Museum is also in town, preserving and interpreting the area’s ancient roots and cultures. For more history, visitors are invited to the Oregon Film Museum to learn about the state's movie industry. Afterward, head outdoors for sightseeing by strolling along the Astoria-Mergler Bridge or enjoying the trolley ride along the Astoria Riverfront for scenic views.

Monterey, California

Monterey was founded in 1770 and is the second oldest town in California after San Diego. It was established by Spanish explorers and served as the capital of Alta California. The town became so prominent that it hosted California’s first territorial convention in 1849, following the handover of the state from Mexico to the US. Today, Monterey is a playground for museums and historic landmarks, all reflecting its aged roots in various artifacts, exhibits, and photography.

Some of the town's famous historic sites worth checking out include the Monterey Arts Museum, Colton Hall Museum and Jail, Custom House Museum, Steinbeck Wax Museum, and Presidio of Monterey Museum. In addition to its history, visitors are always welcome to stroll along the Coast Guard Pier to fish and spot sea lions, or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium on the coast to wonder at marine life and species. The Old Fisherman’s Grotto is also in town, inviting visitors to come enjoy its tantalizing offerings.

With over a thousand miles of gorgeous coastal beauty to offer, the Pacific Coast is one of the most charming regions of the US. Yet, it adds a historic allure to its natural endowments with many small towns where the footprints and legacies of early pioneers are preserved. Visit these oldest-founded towns in the Pacific region and experience a unique combination of history and outdoor adventures.