An Oregon Coast Vacation Features Natural Beauty and Golden Sands
The jagged Oregon coastline is like no other seacoast in the U.S. and those who choose an Oregon coast vacation will have the opportunity to experience its amazing beauty.
With the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, the coast of this Northwestern state is lined with golden beaches, state parks and recreation areas, and some of the most breathtaking sights on the West Coast.
Places of Interest
Though much of the coast is strewn with interesting sites, some towns attract more attention than others.
Beginning in the southern part of the state, the first popular attraction you'll reach is Gold Beach. Situated about 30 miles north of the California/Oregon border, Gold Beach is nestled at the convergence of the Pacific Ocean and Rogue River.
A true blending of forest, river, and sea, visitors to Gold Beach can participate in any number of wonderful activities. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, and biking are among the favorites for visitors to Gold Beach.
However, if you're visiting in the summer, you won't want to miss the jet boat rides on the Rogue River. Designed specifically for safely navigating strong currents and shallow riffles, jet boating provides guests with an exhilarating high-speed ride down this rugged river. Prepare to get wet!
About 70 miles above Gold Beach, visitors will reach Coos Bay. This bay area is full of wonderful things to do and many are attracted to the area for the fine angling opportunities.
Avid fishermen can catch salmon, tuna, halibut, ling cod, yellow eye, black rock fish and many other varieties. A trip on a charter boat also means the chance to view the area's seals, porpoises, sea lions, and whales.
It's also fun to tour Coos Bay's myrtlewood factories, where artisans turn this unusual wood into unique creations.
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area begins just north of the bay area. Home of the largest coastal sand dunes in the world, this is a great place for off-road driving, hiking, or horseback riding.
An hour's drive north of Coos Bay brings you to the quaint town of Florence, a definite must on your Oregon Coast vacation. Located on the Siuslaw River, Florence is full of unusual shops, beautiful art galleries, and wonderful views.
For active travelers, Historic Old Town Florence offers dune buggy rides through the sand dunes, fishing on the river, hiking, birdwatching, and golf.
Just a 20 minute drive from Florence, travelers can visit the amazing Sea Lion Caves, where visitors may view up to 200 sea lions in their natural habitat along the splendid Oregon Coast. A vacation to the Northwest is not complete without a chance to watch the sea lions frolicking with each other!
In the central coastal area, stops might include Newport, which boasts one of the Top 10 aquariums in the country as well as a wonderful visual and performing arts center and lots of galleries dedicated to local art.
In the north, Tillamook is a fun and picturesque place to visit. Famous for its cheeses, guests will want to tour a factory or two and take the 40-mile Three Capes Scenic Drive that begins in downtown Tillamook.
Getting There
An Oregon Coast vacation is best experienced by car. Consider taking a flight to Portland, renting a vehicle, and taking about a week to explore the above mentioned towns as well as many others that make the Oregon Coast a special place for the perfect summer vacation.
Posted by Pat on Thursday, August 25, 2005