The Oregon Coast
The North and Central Oregon Coast has a wonderful assortment of towns, for you to discover, surrounded by beautiful lakes, bays, and miles of sand and surf. With its awe-inspiring scenery and the many fun activities and sites to see, a trip along the Oregon Coast is sure to entertain all ages.
Astoria, is located at the end of the Lewis and Clark Trail and is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. As of late, it has been referred to as “little San Francisco.” Astoria is an old place that is now hip – where Victorian mansions and maritime relics live in harmony with chef-driven restaurants and tattoo parlors.
Seaside, 20 miles to the south, offers a variety of fun for all ages. Wide sandy beaches are the main attraction, of course, but there is also a merry-go-round, bumper cars, an arcade, and a river. Enjoy a walk on the “Prom” next to the beach. From art galleries to fishing, to paddle boats, Seaside has something for everyone.
Cannon Beach, a short drive South, is known for Haystack Rock and wide, flat beaches. The charming downtown has delightful shopping, art galleries, a wonderful wine shop, amazing candy stores, and a variety of great restaurants. It also supports a community theater and hosts a wonderful sandcastle contest every June. Schooner’s Cove has a sister property in Cannon Beach, The Wayside Inn.
Manzanita, is a small community where you’re just 10 minutes away from the windswept beach from anywhere in town. While visiting this special beach town you’ll be surrounded by the ocean, Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain, and beautiful forests. When relaxing in this area try horseback riding, play a game of golf and visit the state parks which are great for camping or day visits. Westover Inns has a wonderful vacation rental in Manzanita, Westover House.
Rockaway Beach, has miles of flat, soft sandy beach. It was created as a summer vacation destination in the 1920s. In Rockaway, you will be able to see the Twin Rocks which are amazing rock formations in the ocean. The best view for the Twin Rocks is from Minnehaha Street.
Tillamook, is known for wonderful cheese and delicious ice cream. Take a tour at the Tillamook Cheese Visitor’s Center then stay for lunch, and end the day with some of their amazing ice cream. Tillamook has wonderful salmon fishing as well as three bays and seven rivers for crabbing and clamming. The Tillamook area is home to the famous Three Capes Scenic Loop. On this drive, you’ll see amazing views of the ocean, the Three Arch Rocks, Netarts Bay, and Haystack Rock in Pacific City.
Pacific City, is one of only two places on the West coast where fishing boats launch from the beach through the breakers. Take advantage of one of the local charters for a thrilling ride. Home of the Big Nestucca it is a boaters and fisherman’s paradise. The river is slow running with plenty of room for either canoeing, kayaking, or motoring. It is also a great spot to fish for salmon.
Lincoln City, is the location of three of our sister properties, Looking Glass Inn, Shearwater Inn, and Pelican Shores Inn. Lincoln City has a reputation as the best spot to fly kites on the coast and because of this, it’s also a great place for kite watching. Devils Lake, Siletz Bay, and the world’s smallest river, D’ River, give water sports lovers and fishermen a lot to do. Lincoln City is home to many antique shops, restaurants, and galleries. Just South is Salishan Spa and Golf Resort offering a challenging 18 hole golf course and wonderful spa.
Depoe Bay, is one of the best places on the Oregon Coast to watch whales. There is a pod of gray whales that make their home here March – December. Many times you can see whales from shore or you can take a boat tour to see them close up. There is a Whale Watch Center that has wonderful views and information. Depoe Bay has one of the smallest navigable harbors in the world so you can go from land to sea in a matter of minutes.
Newport, that is surrounded by mountains, Yaquina Bay and the ocean, offers many things to do and places to explore. Visit Oregon’s tallest lighthouse on Yaquina Head or spend the day seeing the amazing sea life at the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center.