The Top 8 Pacific Coast Towns for a Weekend Vacation
The Pacific Coast is home to places that elevate a weekend into something much more than just picture-perfect moments. In Washington, galleries are located a block from tidepools, and fishing harbors are also used as art centers. Coastal settlements in Oregon combine the saline air with rocky pathways, seawalls that seem almost dramatic during storm season, and cafes where people can watch waves. In contrast, California offers clapboard neighborhoods, wine region excursions, and boardwalks that are still lively after a day. Whatever you’re looking for, these particular Pacific Coast towns are ideal for a weekend getaway. Every U.S. state on the West Coast has something a bit different to offer.
Only five miles south of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea packs a lot of personality into a single square mile, making it the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Up to 100 galleries, from Galerie Plein Aire to Winfield Gallery, can be found along the pine-shaded alleyways that wind past fairytale cottages and the boutique-lined courtyards of Ocean Avenue. Carmel Mission Basilica, established in 1771, is still one of California’s most remarkable examples of Spanish design, thus history is not minimized here. Chez Noir plates seasonal French and Spanish-inspired cuisine in the evenings, allowing for indulgence. For breaks during the day, Reflecting the town’s history as an artist colony, Carmel Beach features pathways dotted with driftwood and smooth white sand. The pet-friendly Cypress Inn and the La Playa Hotel are both conveniently located in the center of everything. Carmel is a dog lover’s paradise, speaking of dogs. This is one of the greatest locations in the world if you enjoy taking your dog on trips.
At Cannon Beach, 90 minutes from Portland, where the Pacific Ocean slams into Oregon’s northern shore, sand, surf, and art all come together. The coastline is dominated by Haystack Rock, whose basalt cliffs serve as a playground for tufted puffins, tidepool explorers, and Instagram selfie-takers. Although it’s the most well-known site in Cannon Beach and might be sufficient justification for organizing a weekend getaway, this small town offers much more. The pathways in Ecola State Park allow visitors to experience nature to the fullest without venturing far from town, providing a short stroll to Indian Beach or a view of Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Cannon Beach provides a rejuvenating weekend getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. You can eat at one of the well-regarded restaurants, like The Wayfarer, or take your time and explore some of the galleries, including Cannon Beach Gallery. With views of the Pacific Ocean, evenings can be spent sipping cocktails at SurfSand Resort or staying at McBee Cottages, a boutique lodging option that accepts both families and pets.
For those who long for sea air and a tranquil waterfront atmosphere, Friday waterfront is the ideal weekend getaway location. It throbs with a maritime vitality and is situated on the eastern shore of San Juan Island. Orcas breach close to the historic 1919 Lighthouse at Lime Kiln Point State Park, which is only a short drive from downtown, drawing throngs of whale watchers. Spring Street in the downtown area is dotted with galleries and oddball antique stores like Funk & Junk. Stopping for a meal at Walden or Oystertale can also satisfy travelers’ cravings for a vibrant culinary scene. The only way to get to the island is by ferry, Whether you arrive by seaplane or private boat, you can use a variety of lodging options as your base of operations. This includes boutique establishments like the Bird Rock Hotel and the opulent Friday Harbor House.
If you want a vibrant nightlife, a thriving food scene, and general luxury, you can visit other communities in Oregon. However, Yachats is all nature with a dash of fantasy. You can get a room at The Drift Inn, which has views of the river mouth, for a weekend getaway. Nothing compares to strolling the 804 Trail in Yachats, which connects rocky beaches, tidal pools, and whale-watching locations. A short drive from town lies Cape Perpetua, where the well-known Devil’s Churn shoots spray aloft and the renowned Thor’s Well drains the ocean like a bottomless sinkhole, creating a dramatic scene along the shore. Although Yachats isn’t known for its fine dining, Luna Sea House serves delicious dishes, including clam chowder and line-caught salmon.