Ask any seasoned Oregon traveler and they’ll tell you the same tip for visiting the Oregon Coast: Warmer weather brings the crowds to Oregon’s North Coast. That means if you head a bit farther south along the beautiful U.S. Highway 101, you have plenty of room to stay socially distanced amid the rugged landscape and wild beauty of Oregon’s Central and South Coast. While planning your trip, check out these unique lodging options for an extra-memorable stay.
Romantic Escape
The Oregon Coast is known for its photo-worthy lighthouses, but did you know you can stay the night at a lighthouse innkeeper’s home? The Keeper’s House at Heceta Head Lighthouse in Yachats makes for a perfect getaway for you and your honey. Rooms offer sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, ensuring unforgettable sunrise and sunset moments you’ll cherish. (Lighthouse tours are currently canceled due to COVID-19.)
The Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge near Gold Beach sits along the pristine north bank of the Rogue River, where the Native American Tututni Tribe encampment once was located. Amid the quiet setting, the 1968 wooden structure sets the stage for fireside conversations, candlelit meals and cuddling up on the deck.
Equipped for Family Fun
The coastal-themed rooms of Bandon’s Lamplighter Inn are the perfect base camp for a summer stay with the kids. Their sea turtle family room includes everything you need for a retreat pad: two double beds and a twin bed, a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge and sea turtle images everywhere.
If you’ve passed along your love of sci-fi to your kiddos, your family will love a stay at the Itty Bitty Inn in North Bend. The Star Trek-themed room transports guests to the USS Enterprise with its wall-to-wall red carpet, vintage comic books and tinny record player. If the island vibe sounds more your speed, check out their tiki-themed room.
Adventurers at Heart
For a getaway that takes you to new heights, check out these treehouse stays: one near Port Orford and another near Gold Beach. Both of these stays give guests a striking new vantage point, complete with stellar views of the surrounding landscape.
For those who have a hankering for glamping, you can book a stay in an Airstream trailer at Bay Point Landing in Coos Bay, an ideal spot for water enthusiasts of all types. These iconic aluminum domes are spacious enough for four guests and are outfitted with a kitchenette, a full bathroom and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Bring the Fur Family, Too
You don’t have to leave your dog at home when you visit the Coast, as most lodgings are pet-friendly. Some go the extra mile. Lincoln City’s Looking Glass Inn welcomes four-legged family members with a basket upon check-in that includes two dog sheets, dog towels, dog bowls, waste bags and dog treats.
Dog-friendly rooms are available at Newport’s Inn at Nye Beach, an oceanfront hotel close to restaurants, galleries and boutiques in the historic Nye district. Upon check in, your dog gets a toy, a doggy bone and bags to clean up after. Dog bowls available upon request.
– By Emily Gillespie
– Photos from top: Colin Morton / Eugene, Cascades & Coast; courtesy of the Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast; courtesy of the Heartland Treehouse
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