70
Insanely Cool Reasons to Winter at the Oregon Coast
 |
| Find
yourself alone - and other suprises - up and down the coast |
(Oregon Coast)
- There's more to winter on Oregon's Coast than storms and nasty
weather. It's a whole other world to explore at this time of year,
with major events, weather secrets you didn't know of and other
aspects that will surprise you: you're in for a Lewis & Clark-sized
set of discoveries.
The revelations
are huge in number. BeachConnection.net found 70 interesting, compelling
and even unusual reasons to come visit the beaches of the Oregon
coast in winter. From the holidays, Valentine's Day, weather shockers,
various events and festivals, paranormal rumors, insane lodging
specials, strange science wonders, different activities and odd
sports, there’s a plethora of wild wonders to see here you
can’t find any other time of the year.
If you’re
not visiting these beaches this season and do a bit of exploring,
you are seriously missing out.
 1
- Yuletide by The Tide
Where else but the Oregon coast can you find that warm, cozy feeling
for the holidays? Numerous events make the coast simply glow with
the holiday spirit. Then, for Christmas, you may consider leaving
the feast for the fine chefs of coastal eateries, like at Lincoln
City's Salishan or Chinook Winds Casino, the Mill Casino in Coos
Bay; Stephanie Inn in Cannon Beach, Embarcadero in Newport, among
hordes of others. Like many revelers, you may opt to spend the holiday
on the beach with your family. But call around to your favorite
eatery to see what they're doing (they may not be open), and call
well ahead of time to make your hotel reservations.
2 -
Serious Lack of Crowds
Perhaps this reason is among the most important for loitering around
the coast in wintertime. Sure, it's a little windier or stormier
than usual, but the beaches are often completely deserted, lodging
prices are way down and there's no line at your favorite restaurant.
Less traffic on the road is a big plus as well. But don’t
let the weather aspects deter you, either. There are more weather
surprises lurking in the coast, especially in February. Keep reading.
3 -
First Saturday Art Walk, Seaside
Every first Saturday, the north coast resort town of Seaside hosts
this little celebration, featuring artists and/or artworks. Look
for the red, blue, and yellow balloons outside the business. Walking
maps available at www.seasidechamber.com.
5 p.m. – 8 p.m. 503-738-6391.
4 -Christmas
Shopping Nirvana
Think about it: it's a perfect excuse to get away from it all while
still shopping 'til you drop. Between large outlet malls like those
in Lincoln City or Seaside, to the myriad of small, special shops
that dot the shoreline, you have some very unique shopping opportunities.
 |
| Wild storm scenes
near Depoe Bay |
5 -
Storm Watch Season
Really, someone out there kind of jumped the gun when they decided
to single out one season as "Storm Watch Season." In actuality,
you can catch incredible storms pounding the surf or cliffs anywhere
from November through to the spring. Grab a motel room near the
ocean, curl up by a cozy fire and watch the oceanic fireworks. Or,
sit in your car at a viewpoint like those above Manzanita, Cape
Meares (by Tillamook), the turn-offs near Cannon Beach, Newport
or just north of Florence, and you'll see more drama than a week's
worth of Jerry Springer episodes.
6 -
Plum Pudding in Astoria.
A celebration in Astoria’s Flavel House with lots o’
plum pudding and demonstrations. Dec. 17 & 18, with demos at
11 a.m. and 2 p.m. 503-325-2203.
 7
- Depoe Bay’s Spouting Horn Kicks Into High Gear
In any weather - just dependent on the tides - Depoe Bay's Spouting
Horn can just go bonkers. A crevice in the rocks near the seawall
compresses the tidal action into one massive spout, which can shoot
40 feet into the air - and sometimes soaks cars driving by. The
same action occurs just south of Yachats, at around the Lane County/Lincoln
County line, at Cook's Chasm. It also happens in rocky spots around
downtown Yachats, near the mouth of the bay, and at Yachats' 804
Trail. It doesn't take stormy weather, however. If the breakers
are feeling a little nutty that day, it happens on nice, warm, sunny
days as well.
 8
- Cannon Beach Holidays
It begins on November 25 with “Make Your Own Wreath”
at the Chamber, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost is $10. December 1 brings
the “Lamplighting in Sandpiper Square” to town at 4
p.m. Refreshments at the Chamber afterwards.
December 1 &
2 is the “Victorian Christmas Tea,” with volunteers
dressed in Dickens era costumes providing silver service, homemade
cookies, traditional Christmas tea and cider for children. 503-436-1391
December 2 features
“Child’s Play,” where you can make your crafts
and get pictures with Santa. The Cannon Beach Chorus performs holiday
music with guest soloists on December 8 at the Community Presbyterian
Church (312 E. Washington). 7 p.m. $10.
9 -
Whale Watch Week
It always happens on the last week of the year. Hang out on one
of the Oregon Coast's 28 vantage points that have a Whale Watch
Spoken Here volunteer to help you spot one of the great behemoths
on their twice-yearly migration going north to south. See www.whalewatchspokenhere.org,
or (541) 765-3304.
 10 -
New Year’s Eve
There's nothing like counting down to midnight at a bar with a lighted
view of the waves. Then, maybe for that delayed New Years Eve kiss,
hit the nocturnal beach for a wallop of romantic atmosphere. The
beach is a popular place with partiers as well as families, and
the energy is high and exhilarating. Coastal eateries make for unforgettable
last meals of the year.
11 –
Pleasant Weather Surprises
Don't be surprised to be surprised by the weather. This is also
one of the more compelling reasons to visit in winter - and one
of the most rewarding. The coast is a very temperate climate (in
spite of its raging storms), and it's not uncommon to find winter
weather here warmer than in the valley. While it's not a constant,
neither is it too unusual to find it sunny and fairly warm, while
it's freezing in the valley. There are more weather shockers ahead:
keep reading.
 12
– Lighted Boat Parade, Newport
In the first few days of December, Newport’s Yaquina Bay hosts
the Lighted Boat Parade, which features a small armada of boats
all gussied up in colors and lights, creating quite the holiday
display. Watchers line the docks and fill the restaurants and shops
on the historic Bayfront to watch the glowing display, although
you won’t find parking or overcrowding a problem, because
this time of year isn’t as jam packed as the summer season.
It’s the right mix of energetic, holiday frivolity and easy
access for the visitor.
The number of
lights and designs have varied greatly over the years. The Oregon
Rocket had a surprise burst of lights as the passengers aboard pulled
illuminated oars through the water. Other highlights have included
live bands on board, tall, masted saiboats with stars sparkling
in the rigging, and a spouting whale on top of the Discovery. www.discoverytours.com
13 –
Winter Lodging Packages, Price Drops
Mid-week prices at moderately or lower priced accommodations can
often be found for dirt-cheap. This is the case from December through
to early March. About mid-March, lodging prices start to rise to
summer rates, usually beginning with Spring Break. In the meantime,
almost everyone offers some interesting winter package or another.
From lower rates for two or three days, extra freebies, a night
free after one or two paid nights or other surprises, great deals
await. Call your favorite lodging, or keep checking www.beachconnection.net
for lodging specials what will astound you.
 |
| Romance
at Blu Cork Wine Bar, Newport |
14 –
Valentine’s Day
What IS'NT perfect about the coast on this most tingly of holidays?
The waves, the unbelievably delicious and atmospheric restaurants,
an ocean view room with a Jacuzzi - and it isn't uncommon that the
weather mellows out and lingers on the dry side this time of year.
It's becoming one of Oregon's biggest attractions on this holiday,
so make sure you reserve your hotel and restaurant at least a week
in advance.
15 –
Barbershop Fest in Seaside
Seaside's Barbershop Cabaret Show happens on January 19th &
20th, with numerous groups performing both nights, and causing the
town to swell with a few thousand extra guests. $15. Seaside Civic
and Convention Center, 415 1st Avenue. 800-394-3303. www.seasideor.com.
16 –
Presidents Weekend
It's a long weekend in February, kids. For some it's a three-day
weekend, for others it may be more. Get thee out to the coast. What
else are you going to do? Mow the lawn? Get real.
 17
– Winter Tours of the Heceta Head Lighthouse
Tour the lighthouse beginning at 11 a.m. on weekends, subject to
weather. (800) 551-6949.
18 –
Yachats Winter Celebration
So begins about a month worth of holiday frivolity in the Yachats.
It starts on December 8 with the opening ceremonies at the Little
Log Church. From 7 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. From 7:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.,
the Yachats Ladies Club features holiday tunes by The Sweet Adelines.
December 9 & 10 and 16 & 17 features the Victorian Christmas
Open House at the Heceta Lightkeepers' House, 12 miles north of
Florence. 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. www.yachats.org
19
– Newport Seafood and Wine Festival
On Feb 23 - 27, Newport will swell to about 15,000 more people,
as this famous fest brings in more than 120 exhibitors, including
about 60 wineries from the Northwest. Grab grub like local oysters,
Dungeness crab, shrimp and salmon, as well as hordes of other delicacies
are for the partaking. Local artisans will be featured too. 1-800-COAST44
or www.newportchamber.org/swf.
 |
| Yachats
is full of surprises |
20 –
Yachats Lions Crab Feed
January 27 means it's time again for this delicious old-fashioned
crab feed that sells out every year. For $20, you can get All-You-Can-Eat
crab with French bread, cole slaw, baked beans and a beverage. Tickets
available at Clark's Market in downtown Yachats, (541) 547-3625.
Yachats Lions Hall, W 4th and Pontiac; and at the Yachats Commons,
W 4th and Hwy 101. www.yachats.org
 |
| Agates
found in hidden beach spots, like this one in Lincoln City |
21 –
Agate Hunting Season
Check out the beach after storms or even on one of its calmer days.
Agates are stirred up by the storms, and you'll find them in greater
abundance at this time of year. An interesting secret about agate
hunting (thanks to our own Guy DiTorrice): the stones aren't actually
washed up by the storms - the waves wash away the sand, revealing
more stones.
22 –
St. Valentine’s Wedding Vow Renewal
February 14. It happens at the Little Log Church Museum. W 3rd and
Pontiac, Yachats. (541) 547-3976.
23 -
Glass Float Giveaway, Newport
Jan. 31, 2007, visit one of the businesses listed at www.newportchamber.org,
or on a map available from the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce
(800-262-7844). Fill out an entry form and return it to the float
display at the business; enter at any – or all – of
the merchants. Weekly drawings will be held throughout the winter,
with the remainder of the floats given away Jan. 31, when each business
will select two names from its entry pool. Winners will be notified
by mail.
24 –
Oregon Coast Chamber Orchestra Season
Classical music and the coast just seem to go together. The Oregon
Coast Chamber Orchestra has released its roster for the season.
Find out more at http://www.occo.ws/.
December 1, 7 p.m. Yachats Commons
December 3, 2 p.m. Florence Events Center
February 18, 2 p.m. Southwestern Oregon Community College, Coos
Bay
February 23, 7 p.m. Yachats Commons,
February 25, 2 p.m. Florence Events Center
May 6, 2 p.m. Pacific Auditorium, Reedsport
May 11, 7 p.m. Yachats Commons
May 13, 2 p.m. Florence Events Center
25 –
Antique Week in Lincoln City
February 9 - 19. This year, Antique Week means Appraise-a-thons,
city-wide antique sales, historic tours of Lincoln City, display
at the museum, and much more. For a map or schedule of events contact
800-452-2151.
 |
| Imagine
getting married in here (Oregon Coast Aquarium) |
26 –
Get Hitched on the Coast
If you're thinking about a winter nuptial, forget the valley. Weddings
take on a whole new dimension of when done on our shoreline. There
are some incredible options, such as the Oregon Coast Aquarium,
especially in its 360-degree view tube known as "Passages of
the Deep." Imagine a ceremony as sharks and stingrays swim
around you. The Heceta Head Lighthouse allows ceremonies as well.
There's also an enormous industry hidden a little beneath the surface
to help with weddings, including caterers, florists, and wedding
planners who will find a perfect beach for your vows. Many large
hotels provide perfect facilities for ceremonies, receptions or
whatever, like the Shilo Inns in Seaside and Newport, Embarcadero
and Hallmark in Newport, Best Western Oceanview Seaside, and various
ones in Cannon Beach, like The Ocean Lodge, Surfsand Resort or Stephanie
Inn. They all provide incredible views as well. Lincoln City provides
some extensive information in a booklet and on their website, www.oregoncoast.org.
27 –
Dive Into Art
The coast has a very distinctive art scene that rivals that of Portland's.
From the art mecca of Cannon Beach (practically stuffed with galleries),
the cozy, downhome art shops of the Central Coast, and the impressive
art scene of tiny Pacific City, the region is chock full of a different
kind of treasure.
28 –
Rain Soaked Adventures
Don't be a scaredy-cat and shy from the wintry beaches. It's actually
more fun than you may imagine to just wander the outdoors during
one of those notorious squalls. You'll have to dress appropriately,
of course, but you'll have the beach to yourself and see wonders
you won't normally see. Besides, few things are more romantic than
finding a bit of temporary shelter from the storm with your relevant
other and having to cuddle for warmth and comfort.
29 –
Hold Your Biz Meetings at the Beach
There is also an enormous industry on the coast geared to this,
and places like the Seaside Convention Center or Chinook Winds in
Lincoln City are just the beginning. Numerous hotels, like the ones
listed in the wedding planning section of this article, also have
grand facilities for setting up a large gathering.
 |
| Yachats
Wine Trader |
30 –
Wonders of Wine on the Coast
More and more, wine is becoming a major staple for the coastal visitor.
Possibilities like this abound in Newport, with Blu Cork Wine Bar,
Village Market & Deli's specials events, wine tasting at Nye
Beach Gallery, and monthly wine dinners at Swafford's Champagne
Patio. In Yachats, The Wine Place features specials all the time,
while Cannon Beach's Wine Shack is a staple for anyone in-the-know
for a wine destination, including wine tastings every Saturday.
There is always the Flying Dutchman Winery near Depoe Bay, and the
Depoe Bay Winery and Nehalem Bay Winery.
 31
– Indoor Attractions
Winter is a perfect time to check out the myriad of manmade wonders
that feature nature. Indulge in the Seaside Aquarium, Oregon Coast
Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center - the latter two are
in Newport. Also in Newport, you'll find the Undersea Gardens, Wax
Museum and the Ripley's Believe It Or Not. In Tillamook, get cheesy
at the Tillamook Cheese Factory or check out the large variety of
vintage aircraft at the Tillamook Air Museum. Down near Florence,
you'll find the Sea Lion Caves and its various wonders. In many
cities, like Astoria, Seaside, Tillamook, Newport and Florence,
there are often more than one historical museum where you can get
lost in time.
 |
| Beth
Willis rocks Roadhouse 101 |
32 –
Dig the Vibes of the Coast’s Live Music Scene
From bluegrass, Celtic, jazz, classical, reggae and blues to rock
'n' roll of various genres, the entire coast has a burgeoning live
music scene that's actually more interesting than many places inland.
The Newport Performing Arts Center is a shining beacon of wondrous
classical options, often featuring the Newport Symphony Orchestra
(and sometimes with locally-based celebrity David Ogden Stiers behind
the baton). The Yachats Commons is host to monthly visits by the
Yachats Big Band as well as various musical acts, while down the
street, the Landmark
provides a steady stream of great bands every weekend. In Lincoln
City, Chinook Winds regularly brings big names to the coast, Eden
Hall occasionally features smaller national and international names,
and Roadhouse 101 is a firmly thriving live hotspot boasting greats
from around Oregon. The San Dune in Manzanita and Lil' Bayou in
Seaside carry many regional favorites as well, such as The Crackpots
or Norman Sylvester.
33 –
Oregon Dixieland Jubilee in Seaside
February 23 - 25, the Oregon Dixieland Jubilee takes over the town
as well. This year, see Titan Hot Seven, High Sietta, Cornet Chop
Suey and Night Blooming Jazzmen, among others. Venues include the
Seaside Civic and Convention Center, Elks Lodge and Best Western.
800-394-3303. www.jazzseaside.com
34 – Wine Country Nirvana In The Coast Range
On any of the routes to the coast you'll find a nearly endless supply
of wineries to indulge in. Yamhill County, especially along Highway
18 between Portland and Grand Ronde, has almost 100 wineries to
explore. Towns like Dundee, McMinnville, Gaston and Newberg are
surrounded by some of the state's finest. Just off Highways 20,
26 and 22, you'll find many as well while en route to the beach.
See www.willamettewines.com
for more.
 |
| Crazed
karaoke by the shore |
35 –
Koo Koo For Coastal Karaoke
If you dig "Karaoke from Hell" in Portland - singing behind
a live band - you'll enjoy karaoke nights at Girtle's in Seaside,
where one-man band Bucky runs the KJ machine and sometimes jams
on guitar right there with you. Other hotspots on the coast for
this on weekends are Snug Harbor and Maxwell's (also on weekdays)
in Lincoln City. For certain nights it's all the rage at Moby Dick's
in Newport and dozens of other bars up and down the coast.
36 –
Winter Steelhead Fishing
Hotspots for this are the Rogue River, Devil's Lake (Lincoln City),
Tillamook Bay and the Wilson River.
37 -
Jazz for the Holidays
This year, Newport hosts the mother of all New Years Eve parties,
stretching over four days, from December 29 – January 1, with
the Jazz for the Holidays festival. This event is anticipated to
be a regular one. It features dozens of musicians and singers over
the four days, climaxing with gigs by Nancy King and Bobby Torres
on New Year’s Eve and on New Year’s Day. www.jazzatnewport.org.
 |
| Lewis
and Clark events every February in Seaside |
38 –
Lewis & Clark Tour
It's been a little over two hundred years since the Corps of Discovery
walked this area, and the whole north coast is still celebrating.
There are continued smaller events around the area and the lower
Washington coast, but there are always sites like the Fort Clatsop
facility, Astoria, Cannon Beach and other southern Washington landmarks
that allow you to walk in their footsteps.
39 –
Pacific City’s Birding & Blues Festival
It happens every February, although the dates for the 2007 festival
have not been announced. This three-day community festival all over
town combines the rhythms of nature with the rhythms of great blues.
Take in lectures by experts, workshops, tours, nature hikes and
children's programs - all about the natural and the bird-oriented
of the area. Meanwhile, the many local galleries and restaurants
provide art programs and music. Headliner of the event in the past
often included Portland's phenomenal Paul DeLay. www.birdingandblues.com.
(503) 965-6994.
 |
| Snow
in Seaside |
40 –
That Rarest of Discoveries
Snow on the beach. That's right. Snow. It's really quite rare on
the beach, but it's one of the most beautiful and yet surreal sights
you can catch. The highways to the coast are a bit on the scary
side during this weather, but on the beach, it's an unforgettable
moment.
41 –
Hunt Down Glass Floats
Through Memorial Day 2007, hundreds of handcrafted glass floats
await discovery on the beaches of Lincoln City. Each is numbered
and signed, and if you find one, bring it to the Lincoln City Visitors
Center for a certificate of authenticity. 800-452-2151.
42 –
Crabbing and Clamming Secrets
Get in on the fact there's hardly anyone else doing it and snag
a bigger, better catch. For clamming, minus tides and lesser sands
(because of storms) make that a little easier. Crabbing has an extra
nice touch in winter because shells are harder, making for more
compacted and better meat in your catch. (Thanks to Guy
DiTorrice on this.)
 |
| Bus
system in Tillamook County |
43 –
Explore Via the Bus
Chinook Winds Casino has shuttles from many inland cities and towns
- big and small - to Lincoln City and the casino. 1-877-594-4627.
Public buses run throughout Lincoln County, all the way down to
Yachats. (541) 265-4900. Porter Stagelines will get you from Bend
or Eugene to Florence and Reedsport (541-267-4436). AMTRAK buses
and Greyhound also get you to Florence, and AMTRAK buses will get
you to Lincoln City as well. Caravan Airport Transportation will
get you from Portland's airport to Lincoln City (541-994 9645).
Tillamook County's "The Wave" has runs from Pacific City
all the way up to Manzanita, as well as between Tillamook and Portland
(503-815-8283). AMTRAK buses run from Portland to Cannon Beach,
Seaside, Warrenton or Astoria. Greyhound can get you from I-5 towns
to the coast and up and down the coast, but often you have to get
to Portland or Corvallis first. Or simply let the bus drive you
up or down the coast on its coverage area. Call for route details.
44 –
Pacific City’s Dory Fleet
These unique flat bottom boats are a generations-long tradition
in the area, and they're fascinating to watch. They launch from
the land at the foot of Cape Kiwanda. They then land by practically
crashing themselves onshore, looking a bit like lemmings going the
opposite way. It's a bit disconcerting to be on the beach and see
one apparently making a beeline for you. They're well trained and
are simply heading for a spot on the shore. You can also book a
charter from one of them at Haystack Fishing Club: (503) 965-7555.
45 –
Indoor Windless Kite Flying
Every March. Lincoln City holds its Indoor Windless Kite Festival
at various points around town. Learn how to fly a kite without wind
- indoors. It's a jaw-dropping, physics-defying festival that ends
with a windless kite competition. 800-452-2151.
 |
| Crazed
conditions, Yachats |
46 –
Extreme Coastal Photography
The coast puts on a wild and weird show during winter - and not
just in storms. If you're out here on one of those sunny (perhaps
even balmy) days, sunsets can be especially intense and provide
some particularly interesting photographic opportunities. Storms
themselves can be highly photogenic. Special effects can be achieved
in fog or other conditions. Or simply cruise the beach just after
a storm and shoot all the natural oddities that have been thrown
up on shore.
 |
| Orcas
near Florence (courtesy Seaside Aquarium) |
47 –
Wildlife In Abundance
Winter means elk, deer and other wildlife tend to wander out of
the coastal forests more often, partially to search for food and
partially because of a lack of humans. Four-footed mammals descend
from the hills because it's warmer and some kinds of food are more
plentiful below rather than above. Seals and sea lions are more
apt to be seen along beaches and spits because they prefer the land
to the tumultuous sea. You'll often spot more of these beauties
this time of year - that's almost guaranteed.
“The elk
actually wander into towns and state parks, especially Cannon Beach,
Nehalem Bay and Ecola State Parks during hunting seasons,”
said Nehalem resident Nadia Gardner. “Of course, we always
have them here at Alder Creek Farm and Wildlife Refuge near Nehalem.”
Tourists and
locals have reported seeing elk swim all the way across Alsea Bay
in Waldport, up to the spit, and deer trotting alongside cars in
Oceanside going for a leisurely winter drive through hilly neighborhoods
above the beach.
 |
| Bayocean
Spit in the distance |
48 –
Winter Hiking Secrets
According to hiking author Doug Lorain, his favorite time for heading
to the coast is this time of year. Lack of crowds on the beaches
is one of the high points for him. While the rest of the hiking
trails along headlands like Tillamook Head and mountains above the
coastline are muddy and fall inducing, beach spits or any long stretch
of sand are easier to walk long distances. The sands are wetter,
which means dunes-like spots like the Nehalem Spit, Waldport or
Bayocean are not so hard on the knees.
49 –
Oregon Coast Explorer Train
During winter, there are no regularly scheduled trips, but your
group can charter the train for a unique view of the coast in northern
Tillamook County and the Coast Range mountains. (800) 685-1719.
 50
– Midwinter Mystery Weekend, Cannon Beach
This year’s whodunit event features Ann Rule, Donna Anders,
Deborah Donnelly, Robert Dugoni, Carola Dunn, Ron Lovell, Jack Remick,
Robert J. Ray and Leslie Rule, happening January 26 – 28.
There are various dinner and lunch events where you can cozy up
to the authors, workshops, book signings and a Q&A session with
the writers. Costs vary from free to as much as $65 to $150 for
some events. Various locations throughout Cannon Beach. Call 800-436-0906
or 503-436-1301, or see www.cannonbeach.org.
 51
– Strut Your Mutt
Dogs love freedom, and a deserted beach (unless it has specific
leash laws) is perfect for letting the hound go bonkers. They usually
don't care what the weather is like, either. Plus, there are an
increasingly larger number of stores on the coast that cater to
the pup, and more lodgings than ever are pet friendly.
52 –
Bird Watching Paradise
Numerous things happen in winter that make birding a distinctive
thing on the coast. Less people means more gutsy wildlife. Storms
push seabirds closer to shore for easier viewing, such as Short-tailed
Shearwater, Ancient Murrelet, Black-legged Kittiwake, and Red Phalarope.
Winter can bring surprises and glimpses of rarities like the Snowy
Owl, Long-tailed Duck, Palm Warbler, Lapland Longspur and the Snow
Bunting. You'll find a whole new set of northern-dwelling birds
you don't at other times of the year. See www.wildbirdshop.com/Birding/brdbeach.html
for other tips.
53 –
Winter Surfing Paradise
Believe it or not, it's still a popular activity in winter. Perhaps
even more so because of wilder than normal waves (major storms excluded,
of course). Ocean kayaking is also a hot one in the cold months.
54 –
Cooking Classes in Cannon Beach
Check out EVOO (that's for Extra Virgin Olive Oil). Engaging, educational,
excellent local seasonal ingredients and great eats. Don’t
let the concept of school spook you: classes are more like wine
dinners or play time for foodies than learning institutions. 188
S. Hemlock Street, Cannon Beach. 877-436-EVOO.
55 -
The Wonders of Coastal Bookstores
Another little known tidbit about shopping on the coast is its plethora
of rather clandestine, but exceptionally endearing bookshops. They’re
often tiny little wonders tucked away in some hard-to-find corner.
Three rather famous ones are Beach Books (Seaside), Ekahni
Books (Wheeler) and Cloud and Leaf (Manzanita). These and others
are notorious for their charm and ability to snag rarities, causing
plenty of bibliophiles (and serious bookstore snobs) from the valley
to become hooked on these tiny little gems.
56 –
Kite Bikes Powered by the Wind
This may well be peculiar to Oregon's North Coast, since the only
pics we found of this on the Internet were apparently from Manzanita.
Some locals in the Arch Cape area have made their own. Basically,
they are specially made bikes, steered by the legs, and powered
by a large kite.
57 –
Storms Wash Up the Darnedest Things
Those beach clean-ups every year bring up plenty of examples: they've
dug up refrigerators, cars and even kitchen sinks. Your own treasure
hunt will undoubtedly yield some oddities too. Mike
Exinger of Zinger's Ice Cream Parlor in Seaside, said beachcombing
is a favorite pastime of his family. "Our best was a tube of
caulk - from Korea," he said.
Danielle Emerick
of Newport hotel Starfish
Point has made some remarkable discoveries as well. “Last
year I found glass floats, and over 50 other floats with Asian and
Russian writing on the them,” she said.
Big storms dump
hordes of driftwood onto the beaches. Afterwards, you'll often find
a city of driftwood all over the beach (as in this shot of Lincoln
City in winter of 1999).
 |
| Goonies Rock in Cannon Beach |
58 –
Movie Sites of Astoria
The Astoria Chamber of Commerce has some material on places in town
you can take a movie tour. The place nearly gets one film project
a year now. You can check out sites featured in films like “Short
Circuit,” “Free Willy,” “Kindergarten Cop,”
“The Ring 2,” and of course that big cult favorite,
“Goonies.” There are plenty of others.
59 – Slower Pace
Here's an insider tip from one of the locals in Seaside (Mr. Exinger
again, from Zinger’s
Homemade Ice Cream): "There's camaraderie amongst the tourists
- everyone knows that everyone else is 'getting away' with getting
the best the coast has to offer in the off-season. Folks are friendlier.
It's a slower pace, too."
60 –
Antiquing Until You Drop
The Oregon coast manages to dig up an unbelievable array of antique
treasures, showing up at the enormous variety of such shops all
along the coast - and not just during Lincoln City's Antique Week.
The Nehalem Bay area, Seaside, Lincoln City and Newport are a treasure
hunter's paradise. The little town of Wheeler has four such shops
alone, making that the town’s biggest industry.
61 –
Gaming To Your Heart’s Delight
Some of the most popular destinations on the coast have video gaming
machines, craps tables and loads of betting possibilities. Spirit
Mountain Casino, between Lincoln City and Salem, is one of the state's
largest and comes complete with a hotel and all-night gas station,
as well as live music and big name entertainment. Chinook Winds
Casino Resort now features a hotel on top of its massive roster
of entertainment. The new kid on the block is Three Rivers Casino
in Florence, with some cutting-edge technology and ergonomic video
machine chairs. Down in Coos Bay, you'll find the Mill Casino. You
can also indulge your gambling urges at the Shilo Lounge in Tillamook.
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| Wild
surf and foam near Yachats |
62 -
Weird and Subtle Wonders of the Ocean
The oddball
things you can see during winter, according to one Cannon Beach
resident, happen probably because you’ve got the time and
solitude to catch some slightly unusual sights.
Chef John Newman,
of Newman’s at 988
in Cannon Beach, noted just such wonders he’s seen, and claims
you can too. “See a seagull with a starfish half way in his
mouth,” he said. “Witness a rescue by the coastguard
of some novice surfer. See your dog fetch a stick from the ocean.
See what you’re missing out on with the real estate sky rocketing
by the minute out here.”
63 –
Four Wheelin’ Fun
If you're an ATV aficionado, you'll love the deserted sands of the
National Dunes Recreation Area south of Florence, or the Sandlake
area near Tillamook. On some beaches that allow automobiles, like
around Cape Kiwanda, Tierra Del Mar or Warrenton, sands are harder
because of rain, and you're less likely to get stuck.
64 -
Golfing on the Oregon Coast
“It’s huge,” says Diane Haworth, General Manager
of Sandpines
Golf Links in Florence. “There’s Gearhart, Salishan,
Sandpines and many smaller, great local courses as well. Sandpines
is particularly a great place to golf in the winter because we are
built on sand and drain incredibly fast. Rates are cheaper for all
the courses and many of them offer lodging and dining experiences
as well.”
 65 -
Dive Into History In Astoria.
It’s the oldest settlement west of the Mississippi, so it’s
no wonder the place is brimming over with history. Some of it as
old as you can get on the west coast; other times it’s history
reinvented for you to hop on.
Explore the
history of firefighting in Astoria at the Uppertown Firefighters
Museum and learn about the disastrous fire that leveled the city
in 1922. You can ride the Astoria Riverfront Trolley. Take a boat
ride on the Columbus River. Visit the Maritime Museum and walk aboard
the Columbus Light ship – an actual Coast Guard ship that
served as a floating lighthouse. Coxcomb Hill was where they invented
cable TV, and atop it sits the historical Astoria Tower. At Pier
39, there’s the restoration of the Cannery from the 1800’s,
there’s the ancient Fort Astoria at 14th St. that dates back
to 1811, the first U.S. Custom House and the Flavel Mansion, built
in 1885. www.oldoregon.com.
 |
| Warm
and sunny Seaside, February of 2004 |
66 -
Secret Mini-Summer of February
That’s right, you read correctly. There’s a little mini-summer
in February every year on the coast, where the region gets about
14 days worth of sunny, warm weather spread throughout the month.
It doesn’t happen all in one burst. But it does mean exceptionally
warm, dry and windless weather that will surprise you at this time
of year, usually coinciding with some of the big events in the month
or Valentine’s Day. Meanwhile, the valley is much colder,
even at freezing. It’s a shocker, but absolutely glorious.
 |
| Heceta
Head Lighthouse |
67 –
Good Oregon Coast Ghost Hunting
Whether or not you even believe in ghosts, the paranormal legends
of the area is one aspect that’s a lot of fun to explore.
Astoria has numerous rumors, some of the lighthouses have their
kooky lore, various spots in Lincoln City are purportedly haunted,
as are a variety of buildings in Seaside and Cannon Beach.
It’s as
if there’s a whole new realm to tourism growing on the coast:
those who are looking for something a little beyond the normal.
Read
more here about Oregon coastal ghost stories, and then go ghost-busting
yourself.
 |
| Lighthouse
Brew Pub, Lincoln City |
68 -
Coastal Microbrew Tour
If you love microbrews (and you should), Oregon's coast has some
delicious varieties floating around out there. Starting up north,
Astoria's Wet Dog Café brews its own brewsky. In Cannon Beach,
Bill's Tavern has become famous for their sudsy concoctions, which
you can also find in abundance at its sister restaurant, the Warren
House Pub, as well as in local eateries like Fultano's Pizza. In
Pacific City, the Pelican Pub has a set of microbrews that have
become monsters on the market: they recently expanded their brewing
facilities to keep up with the demand. In Lincoln City, the Lighthouse
Pub is one of those fine McMenamins brew houses that have so graced
the entire state. Some of their microbrews are made there. The newcomer
on the block is a real stunner: the Siletz Brewing Company, located
just outside Newport, and showing up in various Lincoln County restaurants,
pubs and stores. Finally, Rogue - on the bayfront, in South Beach
and now in Astoria - is still the reigning king on the coast.
 |
| Mystical
Wheeler |
69 –
Make a Wish at Mystical Spot
Then there are those kooky, paranormal rumors in the Wheeler area,
where, supposedly, you can make a wish and it just may happen –
or some aspect of it may come real. It’s called the “Wheeler
Moment,” and it’s a kick in the pants. There are actually
quite a few who vouch for it. Loiter in the area for part of the
day and you’ll most likely have some odd coincidence you’ll
find delightful, or hard to explain. (Read
more about the legend here).
70 –
Weird Science of the Beaches
Whale burps, ocean burps, green flash at sunset, singing sands,
glowing sands and much more. Real science is often freakier than
science fiction, and much of the coast is proof of that.
 |
| Green
flash at sunset: look at the green blob near the top (photo:
Bob Trusty, Newport) |
Ocean
burps happen when it’s stormy on the coast, with little
bundles of oddities washing up onshore, hosting something different
each time (like unhatched eggs, strange skeletons, etc). The green
flash at sunset means a greenish blob hovering just above the sun
just before it descends below the horizon, given the right conditions.
Singing sands are a freakish rarity where the sand makes an odd
violin or singing noise, and glowing sand comes from bioluminescent
little critters from the phytoplankton family. Search
this site's almost 900 pages for more on these items.
It’s yet
another reason to hit the beach and simply explore, explore and
explore some more.
|
