Oregon's coast is home to dozens of cities and towns, including several small to medium-sized places that are perfect for quiet, romantic weekend away from a busy life in Portland, Eugene or wherever you make your home.
Gold Beach, which is located near the California border where the Rogue River empties into the Pacific, boasts oceanfront lodging, restaurants with delicious local seafood and a huge variety of outdoor options, including hiking trails through its surrounding forest and world-renowned salmon fishing.
Astoria, on the other hand, which is near the other extremity of the coast, is known as being the western end of Lewis and Clark's famous expedition and is home to Victorian mansions and a beautifully resorted downtown that dates back almost a century, a place far-removed from the stress of the world -- and perfect for romance.
Oregon's coastline is famous for its quiet, sparsely-populated beaches and grand rock formations. Perhaps lesser known, however, is the Siuslaw National Forest Recreation Area, home to the Oregon Dunes, bizarre sand formations which rise up to 500 feet above the sea below.
If you prefer your romantic getaway to be of the more adventurous sort, you can rent an all-terrain vehicle and drive along the tops of the dunes. If you prefer something more subdued, however, there's no need to worry -- dozens of lakes and streams exist among the dunes, which are perfect for slow-paced canoeing and floating. Cozy up next to your special lady or gentleman in a tent at one of the 13 nearby campgrounds.
While city or national park getaways are perfect if you have only a short amount of time, a great way to take advantage of a longer holiday is to make a trip of it -- specifically a road trip. Simply getting on the highway and heading where the wind takes you can be the best opportunity for romance along Oregon's coast. Enjoy an afternoon of stunning seaside views from the comfort of your own car, stop for a picnic around lunch, walk along a stretch of isolated beach until night falls, then pick the next town you see and rest your head at a quiet bed and breakfast. The best part about a road trip along the Oregon coast is that this formula works anywhere, no matter which direction you travel.
