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Oregon Coast Getaways

Plan an end-of-summer coastal getaway

The longest days of the year have passed, and the kids will be heading back to school in a few weeks. Why not plan one last family getaway-to the Oregon Coast-before the end of summer vacation? You might find that spending some quality drive time, and enjoying some of nature's beauty will enable you to connect with your family in a deeper, more meaningful way than you have in a long time. And if you feel really connected already, you may just enjoy decompressing from all of your summer activities.

Here are five great places to visit, if you go:

History, hiking and Haystack Rock are just a few of the things you can look forward to when visiting Cannon Beach. Burn off a few calories walking along the beach, then stop for a gooey maple bar or sweet treat at the Cannon Beach Bakery. Spend the day flying a kite, strolling art galleries or swimming in the ocean. Top off your evening at Morris' Fireside Restaurant for seafood, steak or their finger licking fish 'n chips.

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2. With seven miles of beachfront, in Lincoln City, you'll be able to walk your dog, boogie board, surf, beachcomb or whalewatch during the day. In the evening, you can watch a stunning sunset while enjoying a world-class meal at The Bay House.

 3. The longest coastal area of sand dunes, in the United States, is the 50-mile stretch between Florence and Coos Bay, Oregon. The high-banked oceanfront dunes, in Florence, have given rise to the popularity of horseback and dune buggy riding. Check out the Sea Lion Caves which are just ten minutes north of Florence, and a popular Oregon Coast attraction.

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4. Bandon offers everything from Lavendar Lady Farm Tours to a Crab Derby to Bandon Dunes Golf Resort-one of the premier golf resorts in the Pacific Northwest.

5. And if you're ready to adventure to the southernmost city along the Oregon Coast, you'll find yourself in Brookings-which is just six miles north of the California border. Famous for growing Easter Lillies, Brookings is also known for abundant camping, hiking, hunting and fishing opportunities. Spend the weekend in a cottage at the Whaleshead Beach Resort or-if you're just driving through-indulge in a hand-cut steak at their highly acclaimed restaurant.

Whether you prefer to partake in adventures, athletics or shopping-or you simply enjoy sharing time and space with your family-a visit to the Oregon Coast might be a great place to create some long-lasting summer memories!

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