Teresa & Chris
Things To Do
Wildlife Viewing (Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge)
If you’d like to spot some wildlife, head to the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge for some wildlife viewing activities in Pacific City. It was established in 1991 to protect a tenth of the population of dusky Canada goose. There are seven habitats to explore, including tidal mudflats, freshwater bogs, woodland, grassland, tidal marsh, forested swamps, and pasture, all of which are home to many fascinating creatures. Many migrating shorebirds, bald eagles, and peregrine falcon can often be spotted here. Just sitting on the beach at this stretch of coastline is likely to reward you with nature’s parade of marine life frolicking in the shallows. Regular visitors include seals, sea lions, otters, and porpoises. A little inland, you are likely to spot deer, raccoons, and the famous beach bunnies.
Whale Watching
There are many whale watching view points along the coast. If you would like a closer look consider a Whale Watching Charter! Whale Research and Excursions will charter you to the grey whales and other wildlife. It is guided by a marine biologist. (There are other charters you can check out on Google). Trip Costs: $49 for 1 1/2 hours which includes museum admission, $39 for children 2-12 years old. Children under 2 years are too young for our Zodiac boats. Private trips available!
Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area
Cape Kiwanda is the smallest cape on the Three Capes Scenic Route, but that doesn’t mean it should be skipped when it comes to adventures in Pacific City. The day-use area here is particularly popular, as the beach is open to vehicles. It can get quite busy, but they are only allowed on the beach if they’re needed for boating, such as towing and launching. When the tide is low, you can dip your toes in the water or explore the tide pools, which are often filled with large red crabs, purple starfish, and other colorful creatures. From the top of the cape, there are breathtaking views of Haystack Rock (a different one from Cannon Beach!) to the southwest and Nestucca Bay in the south, and Cape Lookout to the north. Featuring huge sand dunes and towering sandstone cliffs, there is plenty to see and do. There are opportunities for hiking, whale watching, hand gliding, and bird viewing.
Tillamook Cheese Factory
For the cheese heads, Tillamook Cheese Factory produces the famous Tillamook cheese and ice cream. While not endorsed by the animal loving Bride, this factory is a tourist must see. Sample cheese, eat ice cream, and take a picture in the Tillamook VW van! Tillamook Beach is a gorgeous area as well.
Ecola State Park
Whether you are an honorary Goonie or an outdoorsy nature lover, you won't want to miss the scenic 9 miles of coastline that offers outstanding sightseeing and recreation opportunities combined with a storied past. Beach, hike, picnic.
Tillamook Rock Lighthouse "Terrible Tillie"
Tillamook Rock Light is an 1881 deactivated lighthouse on the northern Oregon Coast. It is located approximately 1.2 miles offshore from Tillamook Head, and 20 miles south of the mouth of the Columbia River near Astoria, situated on less than an acre of basalt rock in the Pacific Ocean.
Seaside, Oregon
Only 9 miles north of Cannon Beach is the fun and popular Seaside Beach! Not only is Seaside the end of the Lewis and Clark trail, it is the kite flying, sand castle making, boogie boarding, ancient forest hiking, grand promenade strolling, skee balling, kayaking, tandem biking, swan boating, sunset picnicking and bumper car-carring capital of the Oregon Coast! Great for kids and adults!
Multnomah Falls
Only 30 miles east of the heart of Portland is the second tallest year-round waterfall. Chris and Teresa recently hiked to the top of the 620 ft Multnomah Falls. While there, be sure to enjoy the scenic Columbia River Gorge by visiting Crown Point and all of the other magical waterfalls along the way! Directions: Take I-84 East to left exit #31.
Trillium Lake (Mt. Hood)
For the mountain lovers is the beautiful Trillium Lake in Government Camp. Just 60 miles from Portland, you can enjoy camping, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming--all with the famous Mt. Hood volcano in the background.
Portland Japanese Garden
Find cascading waterfalls, meandering pathways, and spectacular views of Mt. Hood.
Portland City Grill
For the City Slickers, check out the Portland City Grill. Upscale dining with fabulous food and drinks. The Happy Hour is an affordable tasting of what Portland has to offer. Happy Hour: Monday-Friday, 4-6pm.
Portland Brew Tours
Portland is the microbrew capital of the U.S. You will find an eclectic selection of beers. We could not possibly narrow the brewery list, so check out a brew tour.
Voodoo Doughnut!
A staple in Old Town Portland is the world-famous Voodoo Doughnuts! Order online or stand in line for the full Voodoo experience. Don't forget to try the vegan doughnuts! Yum! You can also take the pink box full of your sweet treats on the airplane. The magic is in the hole! Keep Portland weird!