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What is the best time of year to visit Oregon, drive along the scenic coast, antique…? –Gus

The Oregon Coast is different and spectacular in each season. Summer is the warmest and driest, but busiest time. Spring is beautiful with new growth on the foliage, blooming wildflowers and is good for enjoying birds and wildlife. Winter is a favorite for storm watchers and those who like it quiet and secluded. The ocean is a totally different experience in the winter with dramatic crashing waves. There are many savvy travelers that wait until after the summer rush (after Labor Day) and enjoy the usually beautiful Indian Summer and fall. I personally love mid-September to mid-October. There’s still a good chance of warm weather and it can be beautiful or dramatic with fog, mist and beautiful cloud formations.

If you like to antique along the way, I would suggest the quieter seasons. Lincoln City is  known for it’s numerous antique stores. Astoria and Seaside also features several. Each February, Lincoln City hosts Antique Week – actually 10 days of antique sales and events. We just did a story on Antiquing in Lincoln City you can find HERE.

Hope this is helpful.

Happy Exploring!
Gary

Answered by Gary Hayes, Ask Oregon Coast Expert
October 16th, 2012

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About Ask Oregon Expert Gary Hayes

Gary Hayes is publisher of Coast Explorer Magazine and founder of Pelican Productions, Inc, a travel media and marketing company based in Seaside, Oregon. Gary is a native Oregonian whose earliest memories include working on his grandfather’s fishing boat on the Oregon Coast. He now lives in Cannon Beach, Oregon with his dog Jackson, a nearly constant travel companion. An extensively published photographer, Gary loves exploring the Northwest’s dramatic landscapes and capturing its natural wonders. He does clean up nicely though and he may also be found sampling Northwest wines and fine regional cuisine at every opportunity. He is a food and wine writer and is the Executive Director of the SavorNW Wine Awards.

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