Ideas/Sources for family trip in PNW
 

We're based out of Seattle and thinking of doing a semi-last minute family getaway. There will be 9 of us, and we'd like to rent a house. I am considering Lake Chelan, Lincoln City (OR), Whistler BC, we're open to other suggestions also...however, we'll just go for a long weekend, not a whole week.

Know of any sources for great vacation rentals, or have experience with a vacation rental that you'd be willing to share? I've been on vrbo.com.

Activities we're looking for are some nearby golf, retaurants, relaxation. Maybe my search is still too broad?

For what its worth the wife and I just got back from 12 days in the Northwest.
We spent most of our time on Vancouver Island and then the Icefield parkway run where there is a ton of hiking---if you like that sort of thing.

We did spend 2 days in the Cascades just east of Seattle. Lake Chelan was a little too dry & sparse for our taste. Leavenworth is a great little town that has been "converted" into an alpine/Bravarian theme. (Great hiking too just 6 or 7 miles away). Also 1 hour away is Winthrop (sp?) which has an old Western theme working in its favor.
FYI: 5 min. shy of Leavenworth is the charming little town of Cashmere. This town will undoubtedly be attracting interest in the years to come----also has a great little candy factory--take the tour!
Whistler is o.k.---Everyone says that the zip-line tours are really good but a bit pricey.
good luck,
pete

I agree with Leavenworth. When we lived in the Seattle area we spent a lot of time over there and never tired of it. We have also done the large family gatherings there, and it worked well.

Another option would be Sunriver, which is near Bend, OR. Perfect spot for family gatherings with loads of golf. The resort itself is great, but there are homes in the general area too.

I agree w/ the Bend Area; we really like it there too. Plus you are only 2 or 3 hours away from some really nice beaches. There is so much in the N-west to like and explore. Gosh, even Victoria is a great place to explore----its endless really.

If you're traveling in the summer, Lake Chelan can get really hot.

I vote for the Oregon Coast. I prefer Cannon Beach or even Newport; however, we once had a very pleasant stay at the Inn at Spanish Head in Lincoln City.

yes, vrbo.com is a great site for rentals, but I think you might find http://www.homeaway.com/Vacation-ren...on-rentals.htm more user friendly with many clear photos and reviews

IMO if you are going in the summer and there are kids in your group, I would go to Lake Chelan. If it's adults, I think Oregon would be a better choice. I have two kids who just love Lake Chelan because all the different watercraft rentals from sailboats, paddle boats to jet skiis. We went to the Oregon coast a few years ago and stayed in Depoe Bay which was very nice. Rented a condo on the water and saw whales everyday but the kids really didn't enjoy it because the water was way too cold and the beaches were very windy so it really depends what type of fun you are looking for.