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It's Soon Clean-Up Time On Oregon Coast

 

Covering 180 miles of Oregon coast travel: Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Nehalem, Wheeler, Rockaway, Garibaldi, Tillamook, Oceanside, Pacific City, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Newport, Wadport, Yachats & Florence.

3/6/07

Secrets of the Season

It's Soon Clean-Up Time On Oregon Coast

By Guy DiTorrice

Bob Straub State Park, Pacific City

(Oregon Coast) - Here on the coast we're heading into spring breaks and annual migrations of luggage-laden visitors heading west, while plump, full whales head north. Four-tire vehicles will move up and down the coast bearing humans hoping to catch a glimpse of our denizens of the deep. Large air-breathing machines will be paddling their way from the warmer waters of the Baja to their frolicking grounds off-shore here, or heading further up the coast and the treats of the chilly Aleutians.

BREATHTAKING CLIFFTOP IN NEWPORT

STARFISH POINT Newport - Offers only the finest in luxury condominium lodging. Every unit is focused on the beauty of the sea and the beach.
All units boast two bedrooms, two bathrooms, designer kitchens, wireless broadband Internet, fireplaces, Jacuzzi’s and private decks. Friendly staff dedicated to high quality and superb customer service. 140 NW 48th Street, Newport. (541) 265-3751. (800) 870-7795. www.starfishpoint.com

It's all an amazing sight: Whales finding their way unassisted along a hemisphere-length trail of annual migrations, while many of us can't leave town without checking MapQuest for directions. Less amazing is the gas stations which manage to know exactly when we're doing our recreational driving, and making sure the price-per-gallon we pay heightens with our enthusiasm for travel.

SOLV volunteers scouring the beach

The ocean is a globe-covering blanket of bright green and dark blue water, currents moving and waves crashing in a never-ending journey. Very low maintenance. Even generates its own weather of rain-drenching clouds to make sure it never goes empty.

Large mountain ranges of layered sandstones and molten-formed basalt climb from bottomless depths to eagle-soaring heights, providing us rock-solid headlands and sandy beaches. In Oregon, we're blessed these sanctuaries are always open to us so that we may spend our time in them to forget the travails of work, to recreate with our families and to just plan relax.

Arch Cape Property Services. Dozens of homes in that dreamy, rugged stretch between Cannon Beach and Manzanita known as Arch Cape. Oceanfront and ocean view , or just a short walk from the sea.
All homes are immaculate and smoke free; some pet friendly (with a fee). Some with broadband, indoor or outdoor hot tubs, fireplaces, decks, and fire pits or barbecues. Call about tempting winter specials that go until March (not valid holidays, however). www.archcaperentals.com 866-436-1607.

The Pacific asks so little: A bit less mess. A bit more fish. A few less dumpsites. A bit more cleaning.

True, we're doing a much better job and a lot more people are doing it. I often see conscientious folks on their beach walks with a recycling bag in one hand, carefully placing debris in it with the other. There isn't a need to a major "call to arms." But I think all of us need to be reminded about how little it takes to keep ocean waters bright green and dark blue. And it's equally important to be reminded how easy it is to turn them dark brown and oily.

Look for cleaner beaches (Nehalem Bay State Park)

It's nice to see how many people who walk on the beach as a regular part of their week include a plastic bag in their pockets. It's amazing how many times the bag comes back to the parking lot or State Park ready to be tossed into available garbage cans filled with beverage containers, melted juice jugs and just plain trash.

oregon coast lighthouses on dvdHere's a quick reminder about that invaluable twice-annual tradition from SOLV - those folks who are always working to preserve this treasure we call Oregon - for another tidying up of our most favorite recreational grounds. The Great Oregon Beach Clean-Up, Spring Edition, is scheduled for Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. There's an info link on-line at www.solv.org/ (click the TO VOLUNTEER link) or call toll-free 1-800-333-SOLV.

A1 Beach Rentals, Lincoln City. Perfect for large family vacations all the way down to a getaway lodging for two - with over 25 vacation rental homes to choose from. A breathtaking collection of craftsman or traditional beachfront homes, or oceanview houses – from one to seven bedrooms. In various areas of Lincoln City and overlooking the beach, with some in Depoe Bay. All kinds of amenities are available, like hot tubs, decks, BBQ, rock fireplaces, beamed ceilings and more. Some are new, some are historic charmers. Lincoln City, Oregon. 1-(503)-232-5984. www.a1beachrentals.com.

SOLV will line you up with a convenient coastal check-in point. They'll supply bags and vinyl gloves. You bring a safety pick-up stick (or rake), good walking shoes, clothes worn in weather-protective layers and a smile on your face. It's a volunteer effort, supported by all sorts of folks who take a little time to pick up debris on the beach, tote it to an appropriate pick-up point, and help spruce up our beaches - and ocean - for all of us.

Neskowin

You're invited to come alone, bring a friend or make it a company- or family-affair. There's plenty of beach for everyone.

Whales and people are always migrating past, to and from the Oregon Coast. It takes a little extra effort to migrate out the stuff we leave behind in our travels.

Thanks for taking the time for grabbing the memorable shell, the twisted piece of driftwood, that whole sand dollar, your very first real agate and - most importantly - any thing you might have brought with you that doesn't add to the beauty of the beach.


Guy DiTorrice is the former head of the Oregon Coast Visitors Association and currently gives fossil tours of central coast beaches as “Fossil Guy.” He lives near and walks often on the beaches of Oregon's central Coast, and is proud to be among the ranks of beach walkers who pack bags in their pockets to facilitate the removal of beach trash.

DIVE INTO LUXURY, HISTORY AT THE TIDES

THE TIDES BY THE SEA, Seaside. For over 80 years a favorite of Seaside visitors. 51 oceanfront condos, individually owned and decorated. Suites for couples, small apartments with fireplaces and kitchenettes, one or two bed family units with fireplaces, kitchens and dining rooms. Oceanview cottages sleep anywhere from two to eight, w/ two bedrooms, some with lofts, fireplaces and kitchens. Heated outdoor pool, enormous grounds w/ picnic tables - all at quiet southern end of Seaside. 2316 Beach Drive. 800-548-2846. www.thetidesbythesea.com.


D Sands Condominium Motel, Lincoln City. Free, fresh baked cookie upon check-in is just the start. All rooms beachfront and up against Lincoln City's most famous stretch of beach: the D River. Each room comes as a suite or mini-suite, and has a kitchen and balcony or patio. Some w/ gas fireplaces, while all have a DVD Players; movies to rent come with free popcorn. Heated indoor pool, a spa, and this fabulous beach is lit at night. Rooms sleep from two, four to six - including a deluxe fireplace suite. Gift certificates orspecial occasion packages. www.dsandsmotel.com. 171 S.W. Highway 101. 800-527-3925.


Weiss' Paradise Suites & Vacation Rentals - Seaside

Unique Luxury Accommodations in Seaside. 1BR Suites, 1BR & 2BR Duplex Units and 3BR Houses, units for 2-8 people. Rent entire property for 20-26. Close to beach, river and Broadway St.
Suites are designed for two adults; vacation rental units for families. All units have kitchen and many have fireplace, deck and jetted tub. Comfy robes, slippers, luxury bath amenities, quality linens and more. 741 S. Downing St., Seaside. 800-738-6691. www.SeasideSuites.com


Lincoln City Vacation Homes There’s something for everyone among this selection of wondrous homes: smaller homes with a view to a large house that sleeps 15. All the homes are either oceanfront or just a few steps away from the sand – all with a low bank access and fantastic views. Most are in the Nelscott area; one is close to the casino. You’ll find a variety of goodies, depending on the home: fireplaces, multiple bedrooms, dishwashers, Jacuzzis, washer/dryers, hot tubs, cable TV, VCR, barbecues; there’s a loft in one, and another sprawling home has two apartments. Pets are allowed in some homes – ask ahead. Each comes with complete kitchens so you’ll have a home away from home. Most have the seventh night free. Prices range from winter $85 to summer $230 per night. www.getaway2thecoast.com. 541-994-8778.


Tradewinds Motel, Rockaway Beach. All rooms are immaculate and have TV’s, VCR’s and in-room phones with data ports. Oceanfronts all have a queen bed, a double hide-a-bed, kitchen, cozy firelog fireplace and a private deck. Both types sleep up to four people. Others are appointed for a two-person romantic getaway, yet still perfect for those on a budget. Elaborate oceanfront Jacuzzi suite has two bedrooms, kitchen, double hide-a-bed, fireplace and private deck, sleeping as many as six. For family reunions or large gatherings such as weddings, some rooms can connect to create two-room and three-room suites. Some rooms are pet friendly.523 N. Pacific St., Rockaway Beach. (503) 355-2112 - 1-800-824-0938. www.tradewinds-motel.com


Inn At Spanish Head, Lincoln City. Lincoln City’s only resort hotel built right on the beach with all oceanfront rooms - nestled against a rugged cliffside overlooking a soft, sandy beach. Dine in the penthouse restaurant and bar - for a casual meal or a candlelight dinner. An array of seafood specialties, juicy steaks and other Northwest favorites, including a decadent Sunday buffet. Rooms range from bedrooms to studios to one-bedroom suites with microwaves and refrigerators to full kitchens. Hotel include wi-fi, spa, saunas, exercise room and a year-round heated swimming pool. Kids will love the game room and easy beach access. Full-service conference/meeting rooms for that inspirational retreat; extensive, gorgeous wedding possibilities. 4009 SW Highway 101, Lincoln City. 1-800-452-8127 or 541-996-2161. www.spanishhead.com


RELATED STORIES

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Stunning Storm Watch Spots on Oregon's Coast Tips for some stunning viewing of the wild waves of the season

Structures Found on Oregon Beach May Be 80,000 Years Old - They are the remnants of a forest apparently 80,000 years old, found at Hug Point

Day or Night Mysteries and Merriment on Oregon Coast It's more than just nightlife that comes to life, but the beaches offer major opportunities

Sampling Wines and Wine Bars on the Oregon Coast Wine shops and wine bars are a growing part of coastal tourism

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ASTORIA
Where the Columbia meets the Pacific, Land of Lewis & Clark and loads of atmosphere & history


SEASIDE
The Promenade, Tillamook Head, family fun & broad, sandy beaches

CANNON BEACH
A mysterious lighthouse, upscale yet earthy, a huge monolith, fine eateries & an art mecca


NEHALEM BAY
Manzanita's beaches, Nehalem and Wheeler's quirky beauty; laid back Rockaway


TILLAMOOK BAY
Garibaldi, Barview, Bay City, Tillamook & an oceanfront ghost town


THREE CAPES LOOP
The hidden secret of the coast: Cape Meares, a lighthouse, Oceanside, Netarts and Pacific City


LINCOLN CITY & THE CORRIDOR OF MYSTERY
Miles & miles of unbroken beaches, Cascade Head, Neskowin and many manmade attractions
DEPOE BAY
A spouting horn downtown, freaky hidden cliffs and whales, whales, whales
NEWPORT
Time-tripping Nye Beach, a bustling bayfront, marine science-central and two lighthouses

WALDPORT / SEAL ROCK
Pristine, even secretive sands and wild geologic landmarks

YACHATS
Constantly dramatic wave action, a mix of the rugged & upscale

UPPER LANE COUNTY
25 miles of deserted beaches & oodles of wonders

FLORENCE
A lighthouse, ancient bayfront and miles and miles of fluffy dunes