azzure

I am planning a July NW road trip that includes the Oregon coast...we would be dropping down to Eugene from Portland, heading out to the coast on 126, and spending the first night in Florence. The next destination I'm certain of will be Cannon Beach, which I see is about 180 miles from Florence. If we want to take our time and explore and photograph lighthouses, etc. on the way north; is there a good mid-way stopping point between Florence and CB? I've seen Yachats and Newport recommended, but both are pretty close to Florence.

bbqboy

First, consider heading west from Portland and heading down the coast. CB the 1st night, Yachats the 2nd. Yachats and Newport are always mentioned because they are nice places than Florence.

Fodorite018

I agree, cut over from Portland instead of heading down to Eugene. The freeway in that stretch is boring, but the trip to the coast and down is very nice. July is high season for the coast, so many places on the north coast have 2 night minimums, especially in Cannon Beach. One place that does not though, midweek only, is Ecola Creek Lodge. I have not stayed there, but the location is good and of course they allow 1 night stays.

azzure

Was actually thinking of going from Portland to Eugene via 99W...I've taken that route before, and it's very pretty.

Fodorite018

Yes, 99 would be much more scenic than I-5. I just did that same route yesterday, lol! Still, one thing to consider is that going north to south on the coast is easier to pull over and see the sights. Easier to get back on the highway, if that matters to you at all.

CoastGuy

I live on the central Oregon coast and the drive between Florence and Yachats is the most scenic section of the Oregon coast. A single day isn't sufficient to even begin to explore. Heceta Head is the most photographed light house on the West coast. Cape Perpetua has more miles of hiking trails than any other coast park and easy access to old growth spruce. Neptune State park at low tide provides access to more sea stars than you can count. There are some virtual tours on this web site: http://www.goyachats.com/attractions.html Cape Perpetua has to be seen to be appreciated.

Cleo13

We have stayed at Ecola Creek Lodge, It's nice little cabins and at night all these rabbits come out and munch on the lawn, there were a bunch of babies that would come up to you. That was my favorite part of that place my pictures of them coming up to me come up on my computer all the time.
It's also at the start of the Ecola park and you can walk to the beach too.