Oregon Coast to the Redwoods

Day 1.

Our signature home pick-up gets you to the airport in plenty of time for your early flight to Portland. On the way to the coast, stop at McMinnville to see the famous Spruce Goose experimental aircraft. Look into the cockpit of this giant flying boat, built to circumvent German U-boats during WWII. The plane made only one short flight, but is big part of aviation history.  Your accommodations in Newport are right on the beach! Hallmark Hotel – 2 nights (L)

Day 2.

The Oregon Aquarium offers a great experience to "meet" some of the local marine wildlife. We have a better idea. It's the behind-the-scenes tour gets you up close and personal with the critters. There's time for lunch and browsing on the waterfront, then a free afternoon to enjoy the view and/or walk on the beach. A cocktail cruise on the bay is followed by dinner at Clearwater, the best dining Newport has to offer. (B,D) 

Day 3.

Just an hour south of Newport on the coast is Florence. It’s a wonderful little town with great shops and restaurants – a perfect place for lunch. Just a bit further south are the sand dunes.  Board a big buggy this morning and for a gentle ride over the dunes, or a smaller buggy for a more adventurous ride at the hands of your skilled driver. Arrive in Coos Bay in late afternoon. Edgewater Resort – 2 nights (B)

Day 4.

Spend the day exploring some wonderful off-the-beaten-track attractions with a local guide in and around Bandon, just to the south. Like to shop? Cranberry Sweets and Misty Meadows will offer you lots of Oregon-made treats. Jams, jellies, candy – there’s all sorts of yummy stuff to choose from. At Washed Ashore, you’ll hear the story of a small company that is trying to help clean up the ocean, one piece of trash at a time. What an inspiring mission! Shore Acres State Park is a highlight. There’s a story here along with a fantastic view. Please enjoy both. Back in Coos Bay, enjoy dinner featuring the salmon the area is famous for (alternate entrées available).  (FB,D) 

Day 5.

Travel further south along the Oregon coast this morning, destination Gold Beach. There you’ll board one of the mailboats for a ride up the Rogue River. There’s a lunch stop along the way and lots of great scenery. Overnight in Gold Beach and enjoy dinner at The Landing North. Best Western, Gold Beach (FB,L,D)

Day 6.

A morning drive brings us to Redwoods National Park. A stop at the Visitors Center gives you the opportunity to learn about these magnificent trees. In Eureka this afternoon, take a walk high above the ground among the giant redwoods. Red Lion Inn – Eureka (FB,L,D)

Day 7.

Just south of Eureka this morning you’ll meet Justin Legge. That’s his legal name, but to us he’s Mr. Tree. For years, Justin has been taking our groups into the redwoods to teach them about some of nature’s grandest creations, the Coastal Redwoods. The groves are Justin’s “church,” and he will take you into the forest for a few moments of “worship” this morning. Leave the trees and the coast behind as we make our way home on Highways 101, 20 and I-5. Stop for lunch in Willits, arriving in Sacramento at about 5 pm. (B,L)