The beautiful Oregon Coast Highway 101 with 1st class ocean views! 

I have MANY a story to share about this trip – I could tell you about the captivating old-fashioned Oregon Coast lighthouse we explored, or the beautiful walks we had on the majestic never-ending sandy beaches, our time in Portland, or even the fat seals we saw basking in the sunlight almost sinking a dock! But instead I will tell you about two of my most favourite highlights from this amazing trip!

Being a kiwi, every moment was a great opportunity for exploring, trying to understand the American country-folk’s accent as well as the hipsters Portland is famous for. After 8.5 hours of driving, 2 pounds of wings, 3 food trucks in Portland, and some dodgy gas stops, we reached Cape Lookout National Park on Oregon’s Central Coast. This is a must-see.

We didn’t tent camp like expected but rather went “glamping”. Glamerous Camping…who knew something called a ‘yurt’ existed! A yurt is an incredibly beautiful little cabin-like structure. Since we didn’t arrive until 2am, the campground host left a lamp on inside as well as the heating (oh yes, camping with heating! – I have finally figured out a way to take my mother camping!). We were amazed to wake up in the morning and discover we were right next to the beach! If you aren’t a big camper or don’t have the equipment, this is definitely the way to go…also perfect if you have little kids. You get a little campfire to cook with and the toilets and showers are close by. At only $40 per night per yurt, this is such an affordable way to see the country and all you need is bedding. Such a great nights sleep too, I loved breathing in the fresh ocean air!

Our cozy and warm oceanside yurt!

And now for my second big highlight of the road trip that is an absolute must – sand dune riding!! Yes you may be pushed out of your comfort zone, but you’ve got to give it a shot. If you don’t know what dune buggying is, just picture a cage with 4 wheels strapped to it and a rocket on the back! On the outskirts of the coastal town of Florence, you’ll find these beautiful albeit massive sand dunes as far as the eye can see teaming with adventure. For only $55 each for an hour we took the buggy ‘fast’ trip with a local sand duning guide company. Our buggy could fit 11 people max, going upwards of 100km/hr. Some of this was out of my comfort zone a little which made it all the more adventurous. Our driver strapped me into my seat as we waited for some other passengers; the only problem was then I couldn’t get away.  I probably should have listened to “Magic Mike” our driver when he said he was an ex-cop and has a lot of experience, because then maybe I would have trusted and relaxed a little more.

As we went out onto the sand dunes, I was astounded by how many there were; they seemed to go on forever. For the first 30 minutes we raced around the sand dunes at full speed, often approaching dunes that took us on a rollercoaster ride: vertically, horizontally and diagonally. My only problem: I forgot to breathe…  I was enjoying this adventure, but held onto the roll cage with white knuckles the whole time. I was so terrified that nausea set in. Obviously I had become“that person” on the trip as “Magic Mike” offered me his white paper bag should I need it. Being the stubborn kiwi girl I am, I declined. Despite this, I have to say I have no regrets and would highly recommend this experience. Safety was not an issue at all. The incredible view on top of a sand dune 400m above sea level is breath-taking – especially after you’ve just driven up its vertical side! Driving next to the sea as well as pushing the limits in the sand, made this a easy highlight of my trip. Tips for dune bugging: dress warm, expect to get sand everywhere and don’t be surprised if you find sand in your hair several days later as well as some other unexpected places! This is an experience not to miss!

I fell in love with the Oregon coast; its beauty left me in awe, with stunning weather and an abundance of places to explore. For a girls’ road trip down for 4 days it was perfect… a safe area with plenty to do. Each little fishing town along the coast has friendly locals who will direct you to fantastic places to eat – a shout out to the Yachite’s at the Driftwood Inn who were a favorite for food and live music in Yachat!

We laughed till our sides hurt, ate like queens, sung like divas, took enough “selfie’s” to satisfy, explored and experienced. The Oregon coast put on its best for us, leaving us tired, but extremely pleased that a great holiday was achieved.

And for just a little more fun… I’ll end with this picture of a few locals hanging out on the dock. I told you they almost sunk it! 

Do you have any Oregon Coast adventures that are a must do? Comment below.