In our continuing series on easy Portland getaways, we have a look at a fairly easy trip that’s only a few hours away – Lincoln City. You don’t have to own a beach house to enjoy the Oregon coast. Using services like Vacation Rental By Owner or Home Away, it’s easy to book a few nights at a beach house. We picked a house that could accommodate a family of five and a dog. It’s surprising how many of the options available are pet friendly. The house was situated just up the street from Bella Beach in Lincoln City (just north of the 101 near a big Safeway, Bi Mart and Grocery Outlet). Bella Beach is a nice size and access to the beach is pretty easy, so there’s less of a need to stay right on the beach.
When looking at activities in, near, and around Lincoln City, I was surprised at the lack of feedback and reviews online. After calling around to several charter fishing companies, I narrowed it down to two options, Yaquina Bay Charters (541-265-6800) in Newport and Dockside Charters (541-765-2545) in Depoe Bay. I liked how both companies presented themselves online and over the phone, and both had positive ratings among the limited reviews out there. We ultimately went with Dockside Charters because Depoe Bay was closer and Yaquina Bay Charters was all booked up for their bottom fishing trips. It’s a good idea to book these trips at least a week in advance to ensure a spot.