Discover the most scenic beaches near Pacific City, Oregon, perfect for April travel. From Cape Kiwanda’s dramatic dunes to the quiet shores of Neskowin and Tierra Del Mar, explore where to go, what to do, and where to stay with Meredith Lodging for a flexible, crowd-free coastal escape.
March in Central Oregon brings snow, sunshine, wind, and fast-changing conditions. This complete packing guide breaks down exactly what to bring for Bend, Sunriver, mountain resorts, and high desert adventures so you stay comfortable all trip long.
March is one of Central Oregon’s most rewarding travel months, blending late-season snow, early spring weather, and fewer crowds. This guide breaks down the best neighborhoods to stay in March, from Bend and Sunriver to Sisters and resort communities, helping travelers choose a comfortable, well-located base for the season.
Start the year with Central Oregon’s favorite traditions: hearty brunch, crisp winter walks, scenic views, and cozy local experiences. This guide highlights top restaurants, easy trails, photography spots, pet-friendly options, weather expectations, and small January 1 customs to help travelers enjoy a calm, refreshing New Year’s Day.
Trade crowded malls for mountain calm this Black Friday. Wake to snow-dusted peaks, sip cocoa by the fire, and explore Bend, Sunriver, and Sisters. Central Oregon offers cozy cabins, winter fun, and special lodging deals, your perfect blend of savings, scenery, and seasonal relaxation.
Celebrate Veterans Day Weekend on the Oregon Coast Veterans Day Weekend is more than a time to honor those who have served, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, recharge by the sea, and experience the Oregon Coast at its most peaceful. The first weekend of November brings crisp ocean air, dramatic waves, and festive community events to towns like Cannon Beach, Seaside, Lincoln City, Newport, and Florence. From family-friendly celebrations and scenic drives to cozy nights by the fireplace, the Oregon Coast offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or your four-legged companions, you’ll find countless ways to make this long weekend meaningful and memorable. With Meredith Lodging vacation rentals throughout the coast – from beachfront homes to quiet forest cabins, your perfect stay is waiting. Veterans Day Weekend Events & Activities Communities along the Oregon Coast host parades, ceremonies, and special events to celebrate the weekend. Here are some highlights to enjoy during your stay Seaside Cannon Beach Lincoln City Newport Depoe Bay Yachats Rockaway Beach Pacific City Cape Kiwanda – Climb the dunes for stunning coastal views and enjoy family photo ops at sunset.Pelican Brewing Company – Sample seasonal brews and coastal fare with oceanfront seating.Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge – Perfect for bird-watching and quiet nature walks. Family & Pet-Friendly Fun by the Beach The Oregon Coast in November is perfect for outdoor adventure and family time. With its wide beaches and scenic trails, there’s always something to explore. Pro tips:Dress in layers, bring buckets and binoculars, and plan for both beach and town adventures. Pair your days with nearby Meredith Lodging rentals for comfort, convenience, and easy beach access. Pet-Friendly Adventures Your pets deserve a holiday, too! Many beaches welcome dogs year-round, making the Oregon Coast ideal for a pet-friendly getaway. Pet travel tips:Keep pets leashed during parades, bring water bowls and blankets, and take indoor breaks to rest and warm up. Where to Stay This Veterans Day Weekend Book early for the best selection, this long weekend fills fast! Meredith Lodging offers vacation homes for every style of stay: Enjoy fireplaces, hot tubs, and fully equipped kitchens that make your weekend feel like home. Explore Oregon Coast vacation rentals and start planning your getaway today. Dining & Local Flavors Many restaurants along the coast offer special menus and cozy atmospheres during Veterans Day Weekend: Dining tips:Reserve early, especially for Saturday dinner. Ask about pet-friendly patios and consider brunch for smaller crowds. Scenic Drives & Outdoor Adventures Make the most of the long weekend with a scenic road trip or nature excursion: Enjoy whale watching, beachcombing, and short hikes, perfect for families and pets alike. Local Observances & Events Honoring Veterans Throughout the weekend, coastal communities host tributes and ceremonies to honor veterans. Attending these events is a meaningful way to reflect and connect while celebrating the holiday. FAQs: Planning Your Veterans Day Weekend Trip Q: Are beaches open to dogs during Veterans Day Weekend?A. Yes, most Oregon Coast beaches welcome dogs year-round. Always check local signage for leash rules. Q: Which towns offer the best family-friendly lodging?A. Cannon Beach, Seaside, and Lincoln City feature the most family-oriented vacation homes and condos. Q: Are restaurants and shops open during the holiday weekend?A. Most remain open; a few smaller shops may close for the holiday. Call ahead to confirm hours or special menus. Q: How far in advance should I book my vacation rental?A. Reserve at least 4–6 weeks ahead to secure the best homes and locations. But checkout any last minute reservations are available Q: What’s the weather like on the coast in November?A. Expect cool, crisp mornings and mild afternoons. Dress in layers and pack rain gear for quick changes in weather. Plan Your Coastal Getaway with Meredith Lodging Make the most of your Veterans Day Weekend with a stay that combines comfort, convenience, and the beauty of Oregon’s coast. From family gatherings to pet-friendly escapes, Meredith Lodging offers the ideal home base for your celebration.
Why is the Oregon Coast One of America’s Great Picnic Destinations? There are few pleasures in Pacific Northwest travel quite as satisfying as spreading a blanket on a coastal bluff, uncorking a local Pinot Noir, and eating well while the Pacific does its thing, rolling, crashing, gleaming, just beyond your feet. The Oregon Coast is built for exactly this kind of unhurried, view-forward outdoor dining. With more than 363 miles of publicly accessible shoreline, dramatic headlands, sheltered coves, forested day-use areas, and state parks designed specifically for visitor comfort, Oregon offers an extraordinary range of picnic settings for every kind of traveler. Spring, and May in particular, is one of the finest seasons to picnic along the Oregon Coast. The crowds that descend in summer are nowhere to be found. The light is crisp and luminous. Gray whales are actively migrating offshore, and on clear days you may spot spouts from your picnic blanket. Coastal wildflowers are beginning to bloom along cliff trails and dune edges, adding color to already-spectacular scenery. The air is cool and fresh, ideal for outdoor dining, and the beaches and headlands feel genuinely spacious and serene. Meredith Lodging has built a reputation as one of Oregon’s most trusted vacation rental providers, with an extensive portfolio of coastal homes stretching from Cannon Beach through Newport. This guide draws on deep regional knowledge to highlight the best picnic spots on the Oregon Coast with a view, organized by location, paired with practical spring travel advice, and matched with vacation rental options that keep you close to the coast’s finest outdoor settings. What to Bring for an Oregon Coast Picnic in Spring? Before diving into specific locations, a note on preparation, because a great picnic on the Oregon Coast requires slightly different packing than an inland park outing. Spring weather along the coast is variable: a morning that starts mild can turn breezy and cool by afternoon, and vice versa. Layers are essential. A windproof blanket or outdoor rug is far more practical than a thin cotton sheet. And a soft-sided cooler with local provisions, fresh Dungeness crab from a Newport dock, artisan cheese from a Tillamook creamery, sourdough bread, seasonal fruit, and a coastal Oregon craft brew or Willamette Valley wine, elevates a simple beach break into something genuinely memorable. Most Oregon Coast state parks and scenic viewpoints have picnic tables, fire rings, and accessible restrooms, particularly at the higher-traffic sites covered in this guide. However, the most rewarding spots often require a short walk from the parking area, so pack light and bring a comfortable bag rather than a heavy cooler. Many of Meredith Lodging’s coastal vacation homes come equipped with quality kitchens, outdoor grills, and gear storage, making it easy to prep a beautiful picnic spread right in your rental before heading out for the day. Best Picnic Spots on the Oregon Coast with a View 1. Ecola State Park – Cannon Beach’s Elevated Crown Jewel Ecola State Park sits above Cannon Beach on a dramatic forested headland, and its picnic areas deliver some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the entire state of Oregon. The Indian Beach day-use area offers sheltered picnic tables set among Sitka spruce trees with direct views of the cove below, a protected sandy beach popular with surfers that creates a dynamic, beautiful foreground. The Ecola Point picnic area, a short drive further into the park, opens to sweeping views of the Pacific stretching from Tillamook Rock Lighthouse to the north all the way south toward Haystack Rock. On clear spring days, this panorama is simply extraordinary. May is an ideal month to visit Ecola State Park for a picnic because the park’s wildflower displays are beginning to emerge along the headland trails, and the old-growth forest canopy provides natural wind protection even on breezy coastal days. The hiking trail that connects Ecola Point to Indian Beach is manageable for most fitness levels and rewards walkers with cliff-edge views that make any packed lunch taste better. Pair your Ecola picnic with a morning walk down to Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock before heading uphill to the park for lunch. Meredith Lodging’s oceanfront Oregon vacation rentals in the Cannon Beach area give guests immediate access to this spectacular park, eliminating the need for long drives and allowing for spontaneous mid-day picnic outings when the weather cooperates. For families traveling with dogs, many of Meredith Lodging’s pet-friendly vacation homes in the area are ideal, note that while dogs are permitted on leash at Ecola State Park, they are not allowed on Cannon Beach itself during the summer season. 2. Cape Lookout State Park – Dramatic Headland Picnicking Above the Pacific Cape Lookout, located on the Tillamook Coast just south of Pacific City, features one of the most dramatic headland picnic experiences on the entire Oregon Coast. The park’s main day-use area offers well-maintained picnic tables set in a grassy meadow at the base of the cape, with filtered views through the trees toward the ocean. But the real reward is the Cape Lookout Trail, a 2.5-mile path out along the narrow cape headland, which delivers jaw-dropping views of the Pacific on both sides and is one of the best places on the entire coast to spot gray whale spouts in May. Pack a picnic in a daypack, hike to the tip, and eat lunch with nothing between you and the open ocean. The trailhead picnic area itself is sheltered enough for comfortable spring dining, with restrooms and water available at the main parking lot. The cape headland above the tree line is genuinely exposed, so wind layers and a secure blanket are essential if you plan to eat at an overlook point. Families with younger children will find the meadow picnic area at the base perfectly lovely without the full hike, there’s excellent birdwatching from the day-use area in spring, and the surrounding forest is beautiful and engaging for curious kids. Staying in Pacific City vacation rentals or Neskowin vacation
Explore the best day trips from Bend, Oregon in May, including Sunriver, Smith Rock, Sisters, and Mt. Hood. This guide covers scenic routes, outdoor activities, and flexible itineraries across Central Oregon, helping you plan multi-stop adventures with ease.
Discover the best spring activities in Bend and Sunriver in May, from biking and hiking to waterfalls, wildlife, and family friendly outdoor adventures.
Winter in Bend is made for slow, cozy nights and warm hot tub soaks under cold Central Oregon skies. After skiing Mt. Bachelor, cross-country skiing, or exploring places to eat and drink downtown, unwind in a private cabin retreat. Browse Meredith Lodging and book your February escape.
From misty beach walks to storm watching and cozy evenings in, February is a peaceful, romantic time for couples to experience the Oregon Coast without the crowds.
Planning a winter trip to the coast? Here’s what Oregon Coast weather in February truly feels like, rain patterns, wind, temperatures, storm watching, and how to pack and plan with confidence.
January on the Oregon Coast reveals a quieter kind of beauty. Soft dusk light, misty skies, and muted horizons create a calm, cinematic atmosphere ideal for couples and creatives. This guide explores how winter light behaves across coastal towns and why January is perfect for slow, ocean-view stays.
January on the Oregon Coast reveals a refined winter atmosphere shaped by salt air, soft greys, and diffused light. This off-season guide explores how calm color, clean lines, and quiet horizons define coastal living in January for travelers, designers, and creatives seeking stillness.
Plan a relaxed MLK Weekend getaway in Bend with Meredith Lodging. Stay in a professionally managed vacation home featuring private hot tubs, cozy fireplaces, spacious kitchens, pet-friendly options, and convenient access to skiing, scenic trails, downtown Bend, and river activities.
Discover the best snow parks in Central Oregon for sledding, tubing, and winter adventure. From Mt. Bachelor and Wanoga to Hoodoo and Edison, enjoy deep snow, lift-assisted tubing, family play zones, and scenic Nordic routes perfect for peak-season snow fun.
Find your perfect winter escape with Meredith Lodging. These curated Oregon Coast and Central Oregon homes offer fireplaces, views, and seasonal comfort ideal for holiday gatherings, quiet getaways, and New Year retreats. Book early to secure your favorite setting for a cozy cold-season stay.
Celebrate the 2025 holiday season with ocean views, snowy trails, festive lights, and cozy nights by the fire. Find your perfect Oregon Coast or Central Oregon winter escape.
Plan a memorable Thanksgiving in Central Oregon with our collection of spacious lodges and inviting vacation homes. From Sunriver to Bend and Sisters, these retreats offer room for gathering, relaxing, and celebrating the holiday in comfort with family and friends.
Experience the beauty of fall in Central Oregon as golden aspens, crisp air, and cozy evenings set the scene. Explore scenic trails, local breweries, and charming towns like Bend, Sunriver, and Sisters. From colorful drives to fireside retreats, November is the perfect time to slow down and savor the season.
Celebrate the holiday season in true Oregon style! From snowy mountain lodges in Central Oregon to cozy oceanfront cottages along the Coast, these 10 Meredith Lodging vacation rentals offer warmth, comfort, and festive charm for your perfect winter getaway in 2025.
Thinking about a Central Oregon holiday getaway? Central Oregon delivers the perfect mix of snowy adventures, festive small-town charm, and cozy spaces to gather with the people you love. Meredith Lodging offers a wide selection of vacation rentals in Sunriver, Bend, Sisters, and Three Rivers – from snug cabins tucked beneath the pines to spacious luxury homes that sleep the whole family. If you’re planning to honor long-loved traditions or create brand-new ones, we’d be honored to be your home base this 2025 holiday season. Snowflake Boutique – Redmond The long-running Snowflake Boutique returns in early November 2025 at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds. This juried artisan show features handcrafted décor, jewelry, home goods, toys, and holiday gifts. It’s one of the region’s most beloved seasonal markets and a great place to start holiday shopping. Families appreciate the festive atmosphere and wide variety of locally made items. Holiday Food & Gift Festival – Redmond The Holiday Food & Gift Festival brings hundreds of vendors to the Expo Center in late November 2025. Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, artwork, home décor, and gourmet food items from across the region. The festival’s tasting area is always a highlight, offering chocolates, sauces, teas, and baked goods. It’s ideal for completing holiday shopping in one place. Traditions at Sunriver Resort Sunriver Resort’s annual Traditions celebration runs from late November through New Year’s Day. Events include seasonal light displays, family craft workshops, sleigh rides, Santa visits, concerts, and outdoor fire pits. Many activities occur daily, creating a festive environment throughout the resort. It’s one of Central Oregon’s most iconic winter experiences. Sunriver Holiday Light Show From late November through early January, the Sunriver Holiday Light Show presents nightly music-synced lighting displays. Families enjoy strolling through the illuminated pathways and relaxing with warm drinks available nearby. The show runs multiple times each evening and is free to attend. It’s a favorite holiday activity for both visitors and locals. Bend Christmas Parade The Bend Christmas Parade returns to downtown Bend in early December 2025. Expect themed floats, community groups, bands, and a festive downtown atmosphere. The event draws large crowds and brings out the best of Bend’s holiday spirit. Local shops and restaurants often offer specials, making it an excellent day to explore downtown. Downtown Bend Tree Lighting – Brandis Square The official Downtown Bend tree lighting ceremony takes place on December 7, 2025. Families gather for live music, seasonal treats, kids’ activities, and a countdown to light the community Christmas tree. It’s a festive way to welcome the holiday season. Shops remain open afterward for evening browsing and dining. Holiday Lights Paddle Parade – Bend The Holiday Lights Paddle Parade offers a unique riverside experience as paddlers decorate kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards with lights and glide along the Deschutes River. The illuminated procession creates a beautiful holiday scene reflecting across the water. Spectators line the banks of the Old Mill District to watch. It’s one of Bend’s most creative seasonal traditions. Ice Skating in Bend Seasonal ice skating is available throughout December at The Pavilion and at Seventh Mountain Resort. Visitors can rent skates on-site and enjoy outdoor winter fun in a scenic setting. Skating sessions run day and evening, including special holiday-themed skate times. It’s a classic winter activity for families and couples. Sisters Holiday Palooza & Tree Lighting Sisters hosts its annual Holiday Palooza with downtown shopping, live music, and festive activities. The event concludes with the official tree lighting at Fir Street Park. Families enjoy the small-town charm, local artisan shops, and wintery Cascade views. It’s a warm and welcoming celebration for visitors staying in Sisters or nearby. Shillings Garden Market Holiday Makers Market – Bend The Holiday Makers Market at Shillings Garden Market showcases local artisans selling handmade gifts, décor, and seasonal treats. Visitors will find unique, small-batch goods that make memorable holiday presents. The market offers a relaxed shopping environment with festive touches throughout. It’s a great stop for anyone who loves locally made crafts. Holiday Sip & Shop – Bend The Holiday Sip & Shop offers adults an evening of wine, craft beer, and boutique shopping. The event features local makers and curated seasonal items in a lively, social atmosphere. It’s ideal for finding gifts while enjoying Bend’s craft beverage scene. Entry is typically free and the experience is relaxed and festive. Under the Starlit Pines – Sunriver Under the Starlit Pines is a tranquil, illuminated nature walk hosted by the Sunriver Nature Center. Guests enjoy twinkling pathways, warm beverages, and occasional live music. It’s a quieter holiday event perfect for couples or families looking for a peaceful winter night. Tickets are limited, creating an intimate experience. Festival of the Trees – Redmond Festival of the Trees transforms the Fair & Expo Center into a gallery of beautifully decorated themed Christmas trees. Visitors can stroll through the displays, enjoy live entertainment, and participate in auctions benefiting local community programs. The event blends creativity with holiday tradition. It’s a long-standing favorite in Redmond each December. Holiday Movie Screening: Elf – Bend The Tower Theatre hosts an annual screening of the movie “Elf,” offering a fun, family-friendly holiday outing. Guests enjoy classic holiday cinema in one of Bend’s most charming historic venues. It’s a great mid-December activity for visitors who want a cozy break from outdoor adventures. Tickets tend to sell quickly. Geminids Meteor Shower Snowshoe Tour – Bend Wanderlust Tours leads a guided snowshoe trek during the peak of the Geminids Meteor Shower in mid-December. Participants enjoy a starlit winter hike, hot drinks, and expert naturalist insights. With minimal light pollution, Central Oregon delivers excellent meteor visibility. This event is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Christmas in the Pines – Prineville Christmas in the Pines is a drive-through holiday light show at the Crook County Fairgrounds. Visitors enjoy illuminated displays from the warmth of their vehicle, making it perfect for cold winter nights. The event typically runs nightly through Christmas Day. It’s a charming small-town light show worth the
Plan a memorable Thanksgiving escape in Government Camp with our curated selection of spacious lodges and cozy cabins. These homes offer comfort, privacy, and mountain charm, perfect for holiday gatherings, outdoor adventures, and winter relaxation.
Seaside turns into one of the coast’s most festive Halloween hubs – a place where ocean breezes meet costumed fun, and community traditions come alive. From paddleboard witches to giant pumpkin drops and haunted hotel thrills, there’s something for every spooky taste. Below is a guide to the confirmed events (so far) plus suggestions to keep your Halloween weekend in Seaside magical. Halloween Happenin’s – Seaside’s Signature Two-Day Festival Dates: October 25 & 26, 2025 Seaside’s Halloween Happenin’s is the cornerstone of the town’s haunted fun. This two-day extravaganza features a full slate of activities suited for families, couples, and Halloween lovers alike. Haunted Hotel at Best Western Plus Ocean View Resort Date & Time: October 29, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM Adding to Seaside’s Halloween lineup is the 1st Annual Haunted Hotel at the Best Western Plus Ocean View Resort. This indoor event turns parts of the hotel into haunted experiences, with rooms sponsored by local businesses. Guests are invited to “Trick-or-Treat the Halls,” explore a glow party and maze, and take part in themed fun inside the resort’s halls. Admission is free for all ages, making it a great complement to outdoor events. This event is perfect if you need a break from wind or rain, or if you’re seeking spooky fun in a cozy indoor setting. Traffic is lighter earlier in the evening, so plan to arrive before 5:00 PM to explore freely. Boos & Brews – The Times Theatre & Sisu Brewing Date: October 31, 2025 | 8:00 PM For those in the mood to party after dark, Boos & Brews delivers. Held at The Times Theatre in collaboration with Sisu Brewing, this event brings DJ sets, Halloween music, costume contests, and seasonal drink specials in a spooky, energetic venue. Entry is about $15, and costumes are encouraged. The vibe is lively yet accessible – a fun option for adults or older teens wanting to linger into the night. Because it’s indoor and ticketed, it’s a solid backup plan if coastal weather turns sour. Plus, it gives your guests something to look forward to after the daytime festivities. Fall Fun Fest – Family Carnival & Costume Contest Date: October 18, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Early in October, Seaside’s Fall Fun Fest hosted by Sunset Empire Parks & Recreation District offers a low-key, family-friendly kickoff to Halloween season. Expect carnival games, crafts, a cookie walk, and a neighborhood costume contest. It’s perfect for families wanting to show off their costumes early, especially if plans are hectic closer to Halloween. While not part of the main weekend events, this is a great warm-up: a chance to stretch costumes, meet locals, and get excited for Seaside’s bigger events later in the month. Local Treat Trail, Downtown Décor & Spooky Walks While the big events anchor the weekend, much of the Halloween magic in Seaside happens in its walkable downtown, local shops, and spontaneous moments. As the events calendar solidifies closer to fall, you can layer in smaller concerts, trick-or-treat events at local libraries, or audio ghost-story walks. A smart move is recommending guests check the Seaside Downtown Development Association site or Seaside’s event calendar for updates. Your Seaside Halloween Base: Book with Meredith Lodging Settle into one of our cozy Oregon Coast homes – think ocean views, fireplaces, and short walks to the Promenade and events, and make Seaside your Halloween home base. Meredith Lodging offers a curated selection of vacation rentals perfect for families, couples, or groups looking to blend spooky fun with seaside serenity. Don’t wait, these homes fill fast during Halloween weekend. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Seaside in style. We’re here to help! Browse our full Seaside Collection online or call our Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your stay. We can’t wait to welcome you! In the meantime, follow us on social media and share your vacation moments using #StayWithMeredith.
