FAQs

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

Dress Code: Coastal Cocktail We’re getting married by the beach—but this is the Oregon coast, so think cozy meets cocktail, not tropical vacation. Expect cooler temperatures, especially in the evening! Cocktail dresses, midi or maxi dresses, or similar elevated looks are perfect. For men, button-downs or jackets are great (ties are definitely not required). We highly recommend bringing layers—jackets, wraps, or sweaters will come in handy once the sun goes down. Footwear-wise, choose something you’re comfortable walking in near the beach (heels are welcome, but block heels or flats may be easier). We kindly ask guests to avoid shorts, t-shirts, and very casual attire. Think relaxed but polished!

Question

I've never been to the Oregon Coast, what should I know?

Answer

Not many people have visited the Oregon coast before, so no problem at all if you have some questions! ◡̈ The Oregon Coast in June is beautiful, but it can be a little different than people expect if they’re used to typical “beach weather.” Here are a few helpful things to know when visiting the coast. Layers are your friend!!! Even in early summer, the Oregon Coast can be cool, breezy, and sometimes foggy—especially in the mornings and evenings. Temperatures are usually in the 50s–60s°F, so bringing a jacket, sweater, or windbreaker is always a good idea. The weather can change quickly. It’s very normal to have sunshine, fog, and clouds all in the same day. Sometimes the coast is cloudy while areas just inland are sunny, and the fog often burns off later in the day. Sunset is late (and worth staying up for). In June the sun sets around 9:00 PM, and the sunsets over the Pacific Ocean can be incredible if the sky is clear. Watch the tides!!!! (especially if you plan to hike around the beach) The ocean here is powerful and the tides change dramatically throughout the day. If you’re exploring tide pools or rocky areas, it’s always good to check the tide schedule. The path you took earlier in the day might not be there later! The water is cold!! The Pacific Ocean along the Oregon Coast stays cold year-round (usually around 50–55°F). Swimming isn’t common, but beach walks, watching surfers, and exploring the coastline are great ways to enjoy it. Wildlife is everywhere. It’s common to see whales, sea lions, seals, pelicans, and bald eagles along the coast. If you visit the docks in Newport, you’ll almost certainly hear the sea lions before you see them. Highway 101 is the main coastal road. Most towns and viewpoints are connected by Highway 101. It’s an incredibly scenic drive with lots of places to stop along the way. The Oregon Coast is less about crowded beaches and more about dramatic scenery, fresh ocean air, and exploring small coastal towns.

Question

What is the closest airport?

Answer

The closest airport to the venue is PDX in Portland.

Question

Do I need to to rent a car?

Answer

Yes! We would absolutely recommend renting a car from the airport. Portland has MANY options for car rentals (our favorite is Alamo).

Question

How far am I driving from the airport?

Answer

Pacific City is about 2 hours driving from PDX.

Question

I'm planning to come out early/stay longer - any suggestions?

Answer

YES! Oregon is an amazing state with SO MANY amazing things to do. See additional FAQs below for specific areas to visit!

Question

I'm planning to come out early/stay longer - any suggestions? - OREGON COAST AREA

Answer

The Oregon Coast is one of our favorite places in the world, and if you have extra time before or after the wedding we highly recommend exploring a bit of it! The stretch of coastline from our venue near Cape Kiwanda / Pacific City down to Newport is especially beautiful and easy to explore in a day. Right near the venue, Cape Kiwanda Natural Area is a must-see. You can walk along the beach, watch surfers, or climb the giant sand dune for an incredible view of the coastline. Our wedding venue is literally right there! ◡̈ Just down the beach you’ll also see the famous Pacific City Haystack Rock (different from the one in Cannon Beach!). If you head south from Pacific City, you’ll pass through some really charming coastal towns. Lincoln City has miles of sandy beach, fun shops, and lots of places to stop for coffee or lunch. Some quick stops we like along this stretch are the Boiler Bay Scenic Viewpoint for dramatic ocean views and Devil’s Punchbowl, a unique collapsed sea cave that’s especially cool to see during high tide. You will also pass through Depoe Bay, also known as the world's tiniest harbor! This whale watching town has some incredible views and is a quick pit stop on US101. About an hour south of the venue is Newport, which is actually where we live! Newport has a historic bayfront full of seafood restaurants, shops, and sea lions that like to hang out on the docks (100% must see recommendation!!!). If you’re exploring the area, we recommend walking along the Historic Bayfront, visiting the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, or stopping by the Oregon Coast Aquarium. And of course, if you happen to see our house while you’re in Newport… come stop by!!! Even just driving along Highway 101 between these spots is worth the trip. There are scenic viewpoints, beaches, and little pull-offs all along the way.

Question

I'm planning to come out early/stay longer - any suggestions? - PORTLAND AREA

Answer

Portland is a super cool city with plenty to do both downtown and in the surrounding areas! One of the most famous spots is Powell’s City of Books, the oldest and largest independent bookstore in the world. You’ll also find quirky Portland classics like Voodoo Doughnut, great coffee shops everywhere, and lots of beautiful parks and green spaces. If you’re up for a short drive, we highly recommend visiting the Multnomah Falls area. This iconic waterfall is one of the most photographed places in Oregon and the surrounding trails have incredible views. We would also HIGHLY recommend taking a drive along the Washington/Oregon border through the Columbia River Gorge. It’s one of the most beautiful drives we’ve ever seen (and we have driven across the entire country ◡̈). Along the way you’ll find waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and plenty of places to stop and explore.

Question

I'm planning to come out early/stay longer - any suggestions? - WILLAMETTE AREA

Answer

If you’re driving from Portland to the coast, you’ll pass right through the beautiful Willamette Valley, which is known for its vineyards, farmland, and great food. It’s an easy and scenic place to stop for a break on the way to Pacific City. The Willamette Valley is especially famous for its Pinot Noir & Chardonnay, and there are wineries all throughout the area if you’d like to stop for a tasting. A few that are easy to visit along the way include Domaine Serene, Sokol Blosser, and Stoller Family Estate, all located near the town of Dundee. If wine isn’t your thing, the valley also has plenty of great farm stands, bakeries, and small towns worth stopping in. McMinnville is a charming town with a walkable downtown full of restaurants, tasting rooms, and coffee shops, and it’s a very convenient stop along the drive. Even if you don’t make a full stop, the drive itself through the rolling vineyards and farmland is beautiful and a great introduction to Oregon wine country. It’s an easy detour on the way to the coast and a great way to break up the drive from Portland to the wedding!