Seattle to Oregon Dunes 2 night stop along the way
 

My husband and I and our 3 daughters 21,14,11 are driving from Seattle to Oregon Dunes in August. Any suggestions for 2 nights along the way?? We like the mountains and beaches, kayaking, biking, whale watching, open to ideas?
Any thoughts on outfitters for sand dune rides? and hotels in area for one night before we continue our trip south?

Go west from Olympia over to Aberdeen to get on US101 south.
Cross the big bridge at the mouth of the Columbia to Astoria.
See the Astoria Column. Take your pick between Seaside and Cannon Beach. Each town has its supporters and detractors.
I enjoy hiking on the Oregon Dunes in the section where the dune buggies are restricted.
Things to see between Cannon Beach and the Oregon Dunes include the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Cape Meares lighthouse.
About 5 miles east of Reedsport on 38 is a viewing area where you may see a herd of Roosevelt Elk.

I usually use Sandland Adventures just south of Florence for dune buggy rides. I like going in the small dune buggies which may hold only 4 passengers plus driver. There is large dune buggy which holds larger groups but I think the smaller ones are more fun.

You could stay at the Adobe or Fireside - both just a little north of Yachats and nice places to stay with a nice beach- Adobe has a restaurant with ocean views