Sometimes the best time to go to a place is the off season. That certainly pertains to the Oregon Coast. Not only have the summer tourists left, many of the accommodations offer winter rates. In the northern and central coast you can walk the beach alone, if you wish. You can hike the wooded trails in dripping dewy fog and snuggle in front of a fireplace during a storm.
The Oregon Coast is beautiful at any time but you may be surprised by the weather during the winter. I have walked in shorts on Christmas at Rockaway Beach, hiked up Neahkahnie Mountain shedding my rain gear as I climbed, and enjoyed seafood in un-crowded local restaurants.
It’s a great time to go shopping too. At Cannon Beach the little artsy shops offer steep discounts during the winter. Find a beautiful candle or a special seashell for your collection. Seaside, a summer destination, also has many bargains both in accommodations and in shopping. If you want a beach sweatshirt, winter is the time to buy it. The shops will be deserted.
Photography
Winter is an ideal time to photograph the weather, the crashing waves and the beautiful sunsets. Because of seasonal bargains, you might score a rental right on the beach. Set up your camera and tripod and enjoy the scenery and the changing weather.
Clothing
Don’t worry about making a fashion statement. What is important is to be comfortable. Layering is ideal. Bring waterproof boots, walking shoes, polar fleece and rain gear. Sunscreen and a hat is ideal for sunny days.
Caution
The only caution I would offer is to watch the weather reports and the news. There is a chance of mud slides and flooding over roads that access the Oregon Coast from the cities along I-5. This is not common, but is a possibility.
Getting There
The Oregon Coast is accessible from several cities along the I-5 corridor. You can fly into Portland Oregon and within an hour and a half, be enjoying the delights of such places as Seaside, Cannon Beach and Rockaway Beach.
More Information
Deals on Oregon Accommodations
Oregon Coast Rentals
Travel the Oregon Coast
Oregon Coast Visitors Association
Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose
