The captivating nature of the Oregon coastline

As a kid, I swallowed a lot of Oregon saltwater and sand.

But that’s a natural consequence of running recklessly around the beach; you’ll always end up with a mouthful of waves or a sand-crusted hot dog.

Despite many gritty experiences, my love for the beach never faded. Furthermore, I think anyone can enjoy Oregon beaches.

Amber agates.

Polished, pearly mussel shells.

Sparkling lagoons and shimmering sand dunes.

Barnacle-covered rocks that protect tide pools full of bashful hermit crabs, feisty sculpins, and the occasional sea star. Secret beaches that can only be accessed at low tide. Forests with odd, craggy trees that grow right up to the foaming edge of the ocean.

And when you’re not soaking up these oceanic treasures, there’s sleepy towns and salt-encrusted buildings to explore.

Quirky, old-fashioned stores line worn boardwalks. Salt-water taffy and fish and chips are available on every street corner. And huge, intricate carvings of Oregon sea creatures sit along main streets, greeting tourists and acting as landmarks for locals.

Make sure to spend the night at an older rental house, not a renovated AirBnB.

There, you’ll find discarded sea shells, cozy nooks for reading or sleeping, and a steaming hot tub to sink into. You’ll watch the sun set from big windows and see fog roll into the quiet streets. Old furniture and creaky, carpeted hallways will make the place comfortably musty, but also deliciously spooky.

A weekend on the Oregon coast will change you forever.

You’ll miss climbing up endless lighthouse stairs and looking for whale spouts at Depoe Bay. Flower shops will remind you of pink coastal roses, playgrounds will remind you of driftwood houses. And you’ll always find sand in your shoes or shells in your pockets.

My once-coastal reality has faded into childhood remnants.

But my memories are fresh—just like the seafood, berries, and air there.

And for now, those vivid, cherished memories are enough for me.