Florence

The closest beach town to Oregon's second-largest city, Eugene, charming and low-keyed Florence delights visitors with its restored riverfront Old Town and proximity to one of the most remarkable stretches of Oregon coastline. Some 75 creeks and rivers empty into the Pacific Ocean in and around town, and the Siuslaw River flows right through the historic village center. When the numerous nearby lakes are added to the mix, it makes for one of the richest fishing areas in Oregon. Salmon, rainbow trout, bass, perch, crabs, and clams are among the water's treasures. Fishing boats and pleasure crafts moor in Florence's harbor, forming a pleasant backdrop for the town's restored buildings. Old Town has notable restaurants, antiques stores, fish markets, and other diversions. South of town, miles of white sand dunes lend themselves to everything from solitary hikes to rides aboard all-terrain vehicles.