While Portland offers plenty to keep a visitor busy for weeks, the stunning beauty and natural resources of Oregon state shouldn’t be missed. Try a road trip up the northern Oregon coast for an out-of-the-city adventure that is sure to thrill.

Begin at the Northwestern-most point of Oregon, at the Washington border where the mouth of the Columbia River empties into the Pacific. Here lies the historic, utterly charming town of Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Once a major shipping and fishing hub and home to hundreds of Scandinavian immigrants, today’s Astoria presents a restored downtown lined by miles of sandy beaches and evergreen trees, where you can retrace the footsteps of explorers Lewis and Clark. Numerous movies have been filmed at the picturesque place, including The Goonies, Free Willy, The Ring and Into The Wild.

Downtown, check out the Liberty Theater and stroll along the streets filled with restaurants and shops. When your feet grow tired, hop on the restored 1913 trolley for a ride along the waterfront. The Maritime Museum is one of the best collections of nautical artifacts and presents a fascinating history. For incredible views head up the hill to the Astor Column, where in 164 steps to the top you will be treated to an amazing panorama. At nighttime, the Fort George Brewery serves their micro-brewed craft beers along with good food and regular live music.

Stay at the Cannery Pier Hotel, perched over the water on 100-year-old pilings. There are many good reasons why Cannery Pier was included on National Geographic’s 2008 Stay List. The hotel artfully combines the history of the old cannery on its original dock site with the amenities and luxuries of an upscale boutique hotel. From the exposed steel beams and wooden trusses to the historical cannery labels and photographs lining the walls, the hotel reflects both the architecture and heritage of maritime Astoria.

From Astoria, head south down the coast to Cannon Beach, an artist enclave with a great stretch of historic buildings that have been transformed into galleries, boutiques, restaurants and pubs. Numerous art shows, fairs and retreats happen throughout the year, all overshadowed by the imposing Haystack Rock which looms just off the coast of Cannon Beach. The area hosts many relaxing activities including beach combing, hiking trails, fishing, golf and tennis, surfing, fine dining, EVOO Cooking School, wine tasting, day spas, live theatre, shops and galleries, and free summer concerts in the park.

And for a secluded, relaxing hideaway to get away from it all, Turk’s Lodgings can’t be beat. Turk’s is a romantic retreat with unique features, dramatic ocean views, and charm that escapes most ordinary beach rentals. The privately-owned property has three lodging options to choose from, including the small Studio, one-bedroom Cottage, and the two-bedroom, multi-level Treehouse with a two-sided rock fireplace and amazing double Jacuzzi tub. Large multi-level decks wrap the house, offering ocean, mountain, tree and nature views. The House comfortably fits up to six adults. Turk’s House in the Trees has been featured on three television getaway shows as well as in several publications.

Further south down the coast is the quiet, unassuming town of Pacific City. Another massive haystack rock creates the center point for this rugged, imposing landscape, although less dramatic sand dunes and colorfully striated cliffs temper this ambiance. Despite its name, Pacific City is not a city at all but an unincorporated oceanside village. There is no mayor or city council, and with more than half the homes here second homes, at times the population can dwindle to under 400. This is the perfect place for a truly quiet Oregon coast getaway. Fishing and crabbing are big activities here, or you can go out on a dory boat with a fisherman for a seafaring adventure you won’t forget. Whale watching and other marine animal sightings are also excellent here.

Along this shoreline lie the Cottages at Cape Kiwanda, a modern and comfortable set of two and three-bedroom condominiums available for sale or as vacation rentals. The Cottages provide the ultimate secluded getaway with some of the most amazing views on the Pacific Coast, without sacrificing any amenity or luxury. Each and every one of these fully furnished Cottages has a breathtaking view of the ocean and Haystack Rock, just steps away.

As we enjoy the last of blissful sunny days, cookouts, and playing in the sand, we want you to share a photo of your Favorite Beach Vacation with us. You might win a free $250 (USD) Visa gift card which you can use for any upcoming travel plans you might have. Click here to learn how to enter.

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Image 1 – Haystack rocks off the Pacific City coast

Image 2 – Cannery Pier Hotel in Astoria

Image 3 – Turk’s Lodging Treehouse in Cannon Beach