Recreational Areas

Bob Straub State Park. An often sand-blasting walk along the flat white-sand beach leads down to the mouth of the Nestucca River, considered by many to be the best fishing river on the north coast. The beach along the Pacific is frequently windy, but it's separated from the stiller, warmer side of the peninsula by high dunes. Multiple trails cross the dunes into a forest that leads to small beaches on the Nestucca. Relax here with a book, and easily find stillness and sunshine. It's possible to skip the Pacific stroll all together, and find trails to the Nestucca straight from the parking lot, but it's hard to resist the views from the top of the dunes at the Bob Straub. If you choose the ocean side, pitch your beach-camp in the dunes, not the flat sand, and you'll find respite from the sometimes unrelenting wind. Sunset Dr., just south of where Pacific Ave. crosses river, Pacific City, Oregon, 97135. 503/842–3182; www.oregonstateparks.org.