Published 09/12/09

Oregon Coast Second Summer Begins

Short Beach, near Oceanside.

(Oregon Coast) - It's called the coast's "Second Summer," although many in the region sometimes consider it their main summer of the year. It's still a bit of a secret to fans of the beaches, but September and early October are generally the warmest time of the year on the coast.

Thanks to a serendipitous interaction of warmer waters, cooler temperatures inland (decreasing the differences in temperatures between the valley and the coast) and more eastern winds, you have an almost tropical vibe to the coast during those weeks. July and August temperatures tend to be pretty high still, but you can count on regular highs in early fall more often. By mid-October, the coast starts to turn to its more tempestuous reputation.

This time is a favorite with regulars for a number of reasons, and not just the warmer winds. The waters are warmer, the kids are in school (so there are less crowds) and lodging prices really begin to dip.

Sunsets can be especially vibrant on these Indian summer nights.

That depends on where you are, however. As a rule, Seaside is still so popular throughout September that prices don't begin to fall until October. In places like Astoria or Lincoln Ctiy, you'll start to see some drops immediately after Labor Day. By mid October, some of these drops can be quite dramatic. By early winter - usually November - more expensive lodgings that are normally in the $200 range can often drop in half. But the less expensive the lodging, the less it will drop in price.
 
But in the end, what matters most is that it’s warmer, and so are the waters off the coast. It's a grand time to go splashing in the surf - or at least goofing around the coast and its restaurants and bouncing its almost tropical beaches (at least this time of the year).

Strawberry Hill, near Yachats, bakes in a steady September sun.

Upcoming Coastal Event Highlights

September 30 - Oct 2. Columbia-Pacific Energy Expo 2009. A forum for expanding knowledge among the professional energy community, associated business and industry, educational institutions and the public directed toward creating bridges that will lead to practical, affordable processes for future sustainability. Seaside Civic & Convention Center. Seaside, Oregon. 503-738-6391. www.nwenergyexpo.com

September 19. Wine Tasting. Featuring savory wines from Yamhill Valley Vineyards hosted by National Sales Director, Greg Burger. Enjoy wine, food and live music by Wes Wahrmund who will be performing Acoustic World Jazz from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Tickets $10. Art Gallery at the Inn at Cannon Beach. 3215 S. Hemlock. Cannon Beach, Oregon. www.atcannonbeach.com

For more about Oregon Coast lodging....

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