stephb7i

Hello Everyone! I have been reading all past posts on trips to the Oregon Coast and I still need some advice. I am planning our 10 year anniversary trip for next year and we have decided on OR since we LOVE the coast and have never been to OR. We have either 6 or 7 days to work with and will fly in and out of Portland. My goal is to spend as much time on the coast as possible with a day and a half for the Columbia Gorge area. We probably won't really spend time in Portland this go around (I prefer to stay out of cities on my vacation since I am from a city). OK, so here are some of my questions:
-- Should we start or end at Columbia Gorge?
--Places that seem like places we want to go are Cannon Beach, Depoe Bay and/or Yachats, and Gold Beach--is that possible in our timeframe?
--I'm looking for romantic and very nice places to stay. So far, Stephanie Inn, Overleaf, Channel House, Tu Tu Tun all sound like they will fit the bill -- any others that I should consider?
-- Has anyone ever stayed at Mcmeninans (sp?) outside Portland? My husband is thinking we need to go there.
-- what is the better time to go: early June or mid-September?

I appreciate all of your insights and look forward to hearing from as many of you as possible.

nanabee

Yes, we stayed at the McMenamins in Edgefield (outside Portland) and had a wonderful time.

Actually, our daughter's wedding was held there and we stayed the entire weekk.

I recall the weather was hot (the week of July 14 - 4 yrs ago) and they did not have AC. So you might check on that depending on the weather forecast.

The area is beautiful, nice location to take long walks, and they have a nice winery.

duelcoaster

ok, i just registered to use this website simply to tell you that you and your husband should DEFINITELY stay at the Mcmenamins, but since you don't want to stay in the city stay at the Grand Lodge, it's in a very cute little town called Forest Grove (about 30-40 min outside Portland). They have several different packages and since your are going all out for this trip get the king suite and plan to relax. the place is beautiful inside and out, the food is good and you could catch a movie (they have a theater inside) for free, or take a soak in the soaking tub, play Frisbee golf or just wander around and look at the wonderful artwork that cover the walls and grounds. You should check the website because you may even be able to see a live band or something while your there. i couldn't speak more highly of this place and if your going to be in the area you should spend at least one night there. enjoy your stay in Oregon!

beachbum

Unless you're planning some hiking in the Gorge, one day should be enough. In fact, you could see the best of the Gorge in a half day without feeling rushed.

For the coast, you've definitely picked some great lodgings. But, unless you want to spend a lot of your time in the car, I suggest you scratch Gold Beach and Tu Tu Tun. There's plenty to do and see around Cannon Beach and Yachats to fill your time. And the scenery on the north and central coast is every bit as spectacular and dramatic as it is around Gold Beach.

It's kind of a crap shoot as to when; weather is a little iffy during both of the time frames you're considering. Still, I think I'd pick September, the earlier in the month, the better.

I'd put the Gorge at the front end. If you could schedule flights to arrive around noon, you'd have time to see the Gorge yet that day. Then take whatever time you need the next morning before heading to the coast.

Just so you know..... McMenamin's is a popular choice, and deservedly so. But it's not in the same class as Stephanie Inn or Overleaf Lodge. As an alternative, consider the Columbia Gorge Hotel, which might better fit your itinerary anyway.

Happy planning.

vlcgoddess

Oregon coast weather, even in the summer, is very unpredictable. ALWAYS bring warm clothes when you're there. It's typically windy and cool. If you get sunshine, consider yourself lucky.
For the gorge, take a drive out to Multnomah Falls. You'll see the river and a beautiful landmark, and since you're near the airport, you're halfway there already. I'd do that first on your list.
McMenamins is kinda fun and kitschy, but not particularly high-end. There are only a few rooms (4, I think) at the Grand Lodge that have individual bathrooms; you may end up sharing. If that's ok with you, no worries. Just be aware of that. And the service at McMenamins is generally known for being slow and apathetic.
Also, there is little do to in Forest Grove, with the exception of wine and sake tasting, so be prepared to spend all your time at the lodge or wine tasting. I would say, since you're here for the coast, spend all your time there. McMenamins, and especially Forest Grove, aren't worth the time.
If you do decide to go further south on the coast, the Inn at Spanish Head and the Salishan Lodge are two amazing places to stay. They are just outside Lincoln City, which is about 30 minutes from Depoe Bay.
Have a good trip!