Skip to main content
FeaturedKid-free travelOregon

19 Incredible Things To Do in Florence, Oregon

By August 27, 2018December 1st, 202174 Comments

Life moves fast—unless you’re at the Oregon Coast. On this craggy, salt-smelling stretch where the Pacific meets the shore, it’s easier to stay in the present moment. That’s one reason why I love Florence, Oregon: It’s small enough that you can still call it “quaint,” but big enough to have plenty of things to do, from exploring sand dunes and miles-long beaches to visiting antique shops and Oregon landmarks like Sea Lion Caves or Heceta Head Lighthouse.

That’s why I put together this guide to my favorite things to do in Florence, Oregon. And if you’re time-strapped yet looking for a short getaway, I narrow down all the options to the best itinerary for 24 hours in this Oregon Coast town.

The best things to do in Florence, Oregon

After all, when you’re scheduling a vacation, you may not have a lot of time away. That was definitely the case when my husband and I traveled to Florence—without the kids! It’s hard to arrange childcare, figure out who will take the kids to gymnastics or tutoring, and figure out school pick-up and drop-off while you’re away—all on top of researching and planning your trip.

That’s why I’m writing this post, which shares exactly how to make the most of a day-long quick getaway. 24 hours in Florence, Oregon isn’t a ton of time—but with this vacation itinerary, you’ll feel like you took advantage of the short getaway!

After all, there are so many things to do in Florence, Oregon: gorgeous walks along the Pacific Ocean, rolling sand dunes, high-end restaurants on the mouth of the Siuslaw River, a historic lighthouse and more. Oh, did I mention the saltwater taffy??

Below, I share the best things to do in Florence, Oregon when you’re limited for time. Don’t waste your time researching for hours and hours. Instead, hit the highlights—I’ve outlined them below.

24 hours in Florence Oregon Coast

This land belongs to the Siuslaw People. The Siuslaw are now part of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians.

The Best Things to in Florence, Oregon

At the end of summer, my parents (who live in Eugene) were asking when they would get to host the girls for a sleepover. The kids have spent the night at the grandparents’ house without us a few times, and they were excited, too! (I’m sure the YouTube marathons and chocolate milk had nothing to do with it.)

So Hubs and I took a look at the calendar and found a day we could both get away from work for a short vacation without kids. When we were deciding what to do and where to go, we knew we wanted to be close to Eugene (so we didn’t spend most of the day traveling to and from).

We also wanted to be outdoors. Finally, we wanted to feel like we’d actually gotten a getaway—so we wanted to leave town!

That’s how we settled on a kids-free trip to the Oregon Coast. We spent 24 hours in the city and did all the best things in Florence, Oregon, which is less than a 2 hour drive from Eugene.

We had a beautiful time reconnecting, just the two of us. It’s so important to spend one-on-one time with your forever person so you never lose the spark that united the two of you—and that’s just what we did with this quick 24 hours itinerary.

Romantic things to do in Florence Oregon

24 Hours in Florence, Oregon

Florence, Oregon is a small town on the Oregon Coast, about an hour and a half west of Eugene. It sits on the merging of the Siuslaw River with the Pacific Ocean, making for a diverse habitat as well as a history of fishing.

Florence, OR is a popular town, but it never feels overrun with tourists. I used to go to Florence for day trips with my family all the time when I grew up in Eugene because it’s incredibly convenient. The beaches in Florence, Oregon are beautiful and wide, and its old town neighborhood is quaint and charming.

So if you’re looking for a round-up of the best things to do in Florence, Oregon—or if you’re staying for a short time and want to know just the highlights—read on!

But before you do—snag yourself a copy of my book, Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids. The fun, customizable games and free printables will keep you entertained along every mile!

If you're hitting the road on vacation, you'll want these road trip games ideas! My book, Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids, includes instructions for 33 fun games (including classics you know and love plus others you've never heard of). Each game includes suggestions to make it easier or harder, so everyone in the car—from toddlers to adults—can have a great time on the ride. Stay entertained with these fun car games! To & Fro Fam

2pm – Drive to Florence

If you’re driving from Eugene to Florence, Oregon, which is a pretty stretch of Highway 126 in the Siuslaw National Forest, about halfway to Florence you might want a stop. Pause at Morning Glory Farm & Espresso, a cafe and farm stand on the south side of the highway.

It’s an excellent place to stretch your legs, use the bathroom, order a tea or coffee, and buy some goodies like homemade jams. I love stopping at mom and pop places like this, and I always buy an edible souvenir. Once I’m at home, spreading jelly on a pancake or opening up a bag of chocolates reminds me of my vacation.

4pm – Check in at your Florence, Oregon hotel

When you’re staying just 24 hours in Florence, you’ll want to choose a hotel instead of a short-term rental—most places like AirBnB require at least a 2-day stay, and sometimes more during peak season like summer.

Hubs and I stayed at the River House Inn in the Florence Old Town. I was beyond happy with the accommodation and highly recommend it as it’s one of my favorite Florence, Oregon, hotels.

We stayed in a room facing the Siuslaw River, which was well worth the slightly higher rate for the room. (We paid $225 for the king bed room; rates are lower during non-peak season.) From the balcony on our room, we had a perfect view of the Florence bridge and the birds flying over the Siuslaw River.

Florence Oregon hotels
Where to stay in Florence Oregon

5pm – Drinks in Florence

Just a block from the River House Inn in Old Town, you’ll find the unfortunately named but delightful Waterfront Depot Restaurant. It’s in an historic building overlooking the Siuslaw River, and it’s always busy because locals as well as tourists know it’s one of the nicest restaurants in Florence, Oregon.

Level 10 travel tip: Make a reservation, even if you’re just having a drink. The bar fills up quickly, too!

If you’re looking for things to do in Florence, Oregon for the 21-and-over crowd, head to the Waterfront Depot Restaurant for vintage cocktails. It also serves craft beers—many of which come from Oregon Coast breweries.

6pm – Restaurants in Florence, Oregon

Hubs and I ate at 1285 Restobar for dinner in Florence. We wanted seafood (since that makes a beach vacation feel even more beachy!), and we wanted to sit outside. This restaurant in Florence has an adorable back patio, but you’re wise to make reservations if you want to sit back there, since it fills up.

Restaurants in Florence, Oregon

I ordered the crab-crusted salmon in a shrimp and caper sauce, and Hubs had the halibut with garlic potatoes. The crispy crust around moist salmon made for a delicious combination, and their Caesar salad dressing (which I ordered with a regular garden salad instead of just Romaine) rounded out my meal. They also serve customizable pizzas and pasta and overall, this is certainly one of the best Florence, Oregon restaurants.

The Restobar also has a nice wine menu. I ordered a pinot gris from Sweetcheeks, a winery just outside of Eugene.

7:30pm – Saltwater taffy!

After dinner, we strolled around Old Town. Many of the shops were closing, but BJ’s—an ice cream and saltwater taffy joint that has been open since I was a kid—pulled us in with its smell of sugar.

Fun things to do in Florence, OR

Getting saltwater taffy is one of the most quintessential things to do in Florence, Oregon. You practically can’t say you visited the Oregon Coast unless you got saltwater taffy stuck in your teeth!

BJ’s has an entire wall of saltwater taffy, more than 100 flavors to be exact! It’s a tradition of mine to buy one of each flavor that calls to me, then I play the same game I’ve been doing since I was little. It goes like this:

Once you’ve bought your saltwater taffy, reach into the bag with your eyes closed. Unwrap a piece and put it in your mouth. Try to guess the flavor—you’ll be surprised at how difficult it is without seeing the color and the patterns!

8pm – Sunset at your hotel in Florence

The sun sets around 8:30 in the late summer in Oregon, and Hubs and I enjoyed it from start to finish. We opened a bottle of pinot noir, played cribbage and watched the sky turn from blue to pink to purple over the Pacific Ocean.

From the riverside hotel room, we had a perfect view. Isn’t Florence, Oregon just so beautiful?! (And isn’t my husband handsome?!)

Sunsets in Florence, Oregon

8am – Breakfast in Florence

The continental hotel breakfast at the River House Inn is not good—think bagels, dry cereal, oatmeal and fruit. Thanks to my experience traveling for work and staying at chain hotels, I’m an expert at pulling together a decent breakfast with a spread like this. But if you’re on a quick vacation in Florence, you probably want something a little nicer.

As you walk toward Old Town, you’ll smell the chestnut-y aroma of roasting coffee—and just past the bridge underpass, you’ll find out why: River Roasters roasts their own in-house coffee. They also serve delicious pastries, making it one of the best places to eat in Florence, Oregon. There’s also a cute gift shop that skews more toward the upscale and adorable instead of the tacky or kitschy.

If weather allows, you’ll want to sip your drink and eat your muffin outside on the deck, which overlooks the Siuslaw River. If not, there are plenty of seats inside, where locals read the newspaper or play cribbage.

One day in Florence
How to get from Eugene to Florence Oregon

10am – Walk the beach in Florence, Oregon

If you’ve come to the Oregon Coast, you definitely want to spend time on the beach! Visitors from California complain about the wind and the fact the water isn’t warm, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

The Oregon Coast is the only place in the country where all the beaches are entirely public. That’s good, because my go-to beach access spot in Florence, Or is next to Driftwood Shores, the hotel where I often stayed with my family when I was growing up. You can park in the Lane County parking area ($5 fee; you don’t have to pay if you stay less than 45 minutes) then walk about 100 yards down to Heceta Beach.

Make sure you have time for one of my favorite things to do in Florence, Oregon: At low tide, you can walk way out to the water’s edge, and you can stroll north on the endless beach or south toward the jetty. The beach stretches forever!

Florence Oregon Beaches

12pm – Lunch in Florence, OR

One of my favorite mom and pop restaurants in Florence, Oregon is the Little Brown Hen Cafe, on the west side of Highway 101. Inside, it’s like taking a trip in a time machine, where the staff are seriously friendly, you sit alongside stained glass scenes of beaches, and just about everyone seems like a local.

We picked the Little Brown Hen Cafe in part because it has plenty of gluten-free options. Sandwiches can be made with gluten-free bread, and the cafe serves breakfast all day.

You should definitely opt for the “chirps,” which are hand-cut and thin-sliced potatoes which are breaded and then deep-fried. I actually ate a few even though I’m pretty sure they’re not gluten-free. Good grief, they were incredible!

Where to eat in Florence, OR
Old Town Florence Oregon

The clam chowder was also delicious and served hot enough to burn the top of my mouth—in other words, just right. In my opinion, the clam chowder here is 100 times better than at Mo’s.

The Little Brown Hen Cafe also makes food to go; if you want, you can grab your meal in a box and head to the Oregon Dunes National Recreational Area, another of my fave things to do in Florence.

Level 10 travel tip: Little Brown Hen Cafe is perhaps the only place left that doesn’t accept cards—it’s cash only, so bring your dolla dolla bills!

1pm – Sand dunes in Florence, Oregon

Just 5 minutes south of Florence, Oregon, you’ll arrive at Honeyman State Park. You’ll find towering sand dunes surrounding a freshwater lake, where you can sandboard (the state park rents boards for $10/day), kayak (all boat rentals are $10/hour) or do like me and Hubs and just goof off in the sand.

My family came to Honeyman State Park at least once a summer when I was growing up, which makes this one of the things to do in Florence, Oregon I always recommend: I have wonderful memories of swimming, climbing, picnicking and—yes—sprinting down the dunes to jump into the lake below.

In fact, within minutes of arriving at Honeyman, Hubs and I were already planning a family camping trip here next summer. (Never too early to start planning a family vacation!)

Level 10 travel tip: Bring a light jacket, even on a summer day, because Honeyman State Park can get windy.

Sand dunes in Florence Oregon
Florence OR activities

3pm – Antiques in Florence

Before you finish your 24 hours in Florence, Oregon, you’ll want to partake in an Oregon Coast tradition: antiquing.

Florence has a range of antique stores, from the high-end to the junkyard. I prefer the lower end ones in part because you never know what weird, quirky or surprising thing you’ll find. There’s actually an antique store that fits this bill just north of the entrance to Honeyman State Park.

Even if you don’t end up buying anything, it’s fun to explore all the old stuff that has somehow collected here on the Oregon Coast.

4pm – Say goodbye to Florence, OR (for now)

I am always sad to end a vacation, especially a trip without kids—after all, Hubs and I don’t get away together that often. That just makes a kid-free vacation even more special, though.

I always like to end a short trip looking forward to what I’ll do the next time I visit; wrapping up our 24 hours in Florence was no different.

To that end, read on for additional things to do in Florence, Oregon. That way, you’ll get a whole slew of ideas for your next Central Oregon Coast itinerary.

Weekend getaway in Florence

Even more unique things to do in Florence, Oregon

If you get to stay more than one day and wondering what to do in Florence, Oregon, check out some of these other fun attractions nearby.

Darlingtonia State Natural Site

The Darlingtonia State Natural Site, just a few minutes off the highway about 5 minutes north of Florence, Oregon, is entirely dedicated to a carnivorous plant species. Stroll the boardwalk and marvel at the prehistoric-looking darlingtonia, which are nicknamed the cobra lily.

This quick stop in Florence takes just 5 minutes to walk the loop, and it’s a terrific pause if you’re traveling north.

Darlingtonia-Florence-Oregon
Darlingtonia-Park-Oregon

Sea Lion Caves

Drive 11 miles north of Florence to descend 200 feet below this Oregon Coast cliff into North America’s largest coastal cave. The Sea Lion Caves are loud (and stinky) because they’re the natural home to up to 200 Steller sea lions.

Climb the sand dunes at South Jetty

Just on the south side of the bridge over the Siuslaw River, you can access the South Jetty. Full of rolling sand dunes and expansive views, this park is one of the best things to do in Florence. You’ll gaze over more sand than you thought possible! ($5 park access fee)

The sand dunes in Florence, Oregon are a must-do activity on the Oregon Coast. Check out 20 other things to do in Florence in the full post!  To & Fro Fam

Heceta Head Lighthouse near Florence, Oregon

A dozen miles north of Florence, the iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the state’s lighthouses on the National Registry of Historic Places. When you’re done photographing it, walk one of the trails down to the beach below.

Hike Sweet Creek Falls

Just over a half-hour from Florence, OR, you have access to one of the prettiest easy hikes in the state. The Sweet Creek Falls trail winds along the creek and past dozens of little waterfalls on its way to the real showstopper: a 70-foot tiered waterfall that looks like it could be a post card.

This hike near Florence, Oregon is a beautiful and easy waterfall hike. It's family friendly and good for dogs, too. A must on your list of things to do on the Oregon Coast! To & Fro famThree Rivers Casino

On the nearby Indian reservation land, you can gamble (or simply wander) at the Three Rivers Casino. The casino also hosts concerts and other events, so check out their upcoming schedule if you want some live music!

Clamming in Florence, Oregon

The estuary—where the Siuslaw River and the Pacific Ocean meet—are ideal habitat for clams, as well as other sealife. You can harvest clams in Florence—see this site for more information.

All you need to enjoy your trip to Florence

By now I’m betting you can’t wait to explore Florence. Are you most excited about the sand dunes? Visiting Heceta Head Lighthouse? Eating seafood?

No matter what you plan to do—or if you’re ambitious and want to do it all—you’ll love Florence. Do you still have questions? Check out the FAQ below. If there’s anything important I didn’t cover, please let me know in the comments. I’ll update the post and address your questions!

How far is Florence, Oregon from Eugene?

It takes between 1.5 and 2 hours to drive between Florence and Eugene. You’ll drive through the Coastal Range on Highway 126.

How far is Florence, Oregon from Portland?

The quickest way to drive to Florence from Portland takes just under 3 hours. You’ll drive south on I-5 from Portland, to Eugene, then drive west on Highway 126 to reach Florence. You can also take the longer route down Highway 101, or the Historic Coastal Highway, but that trip takes about 3 hours 45 minutes.

Can I go on the beach in Florence, Oregon?

Yes! In fact, you are allowed on any beach in Florence—and the entire Oregon Coast—because it’s all public. The catch: You need to reach the beach via public access, not through someone’s private property. Thankfully there are many beach access points in Florence, including next to Driftwood Shores, the South Jetty and the Siuslaw River Beach Access Park.

What is Florence, Oregon known for?

Florence is one of the most popular towns on the Oregon Coast for good reason. It’s most famous for its rolling sand dunes, the Sea Lion Caves and the historic Heceta Head Lighthouse.

Have you been to the Oregon Coast? What else would you recommend for a quick, 24 hour itinerary? And if you’re planning other Oregon Coast stays, don’t miss my detailed guide to Lincoln City!

Like this post? Pin it for later!

74 Comments

  • I haven’t been to Florence in so long but used to travel all over Oregon for work and that was one of my many stops. I used to love staying there. Love the beaches there! Looks like you had a fun 24 hours stay there! I’ll have to check out that dinner restaurant the next time the fam and I are down in that area.

    • catherine.art says:

      The beach in Florence is so lovely: It’s long, and at low tide it stretches FOREVER. I hope you make it back there soon!

  • Hawnuh Lee says:

    I had no idea Florence had so much to offer! This looks like such a nice, quick get away and it’s great you got some time with the hubs 🙂 I would love to stay right on the water, that sunset looks amazing! (And so does that taffy!) This is definitely going on the end of summer trip list.

    • catherine.art says:

      Hawnuh, Florence is so great at the end of the summer, especially because visitors totally slow down in September. Enjoy!!

  • I’ve never made it to Florence but the beaches look really pretty from your photos. I also appreciate that the town is cute and upscale rather than touristy and kitchy. Salt water taffy is s must everytime I visit the coast too so I’m glad to see you share the same affinity for it!

    • catherine.art says:

      I don’t even like sweet candy (chocolate is my jam), but I make an exception for saltwater taffy—but only when I’m at the coast. It’s such an experiential taste!

  • This guide is so comprehensive. I havent been to Florence, only the central coast. I would love to check it out before summer ends though. I wonder if there is any good surf spots down there?! I love how you drank pinot and played cribbage during the sunset, that sounds like a dream. Vacation well played for sure!

    • catherine.art says:

      Thanks Breona! The vacation would have been even better if I’d managed to beat my husband at cribbage. 😉 We’re pretty evenly matched, but he got me on two games in a row!

  • Great list of stops and general fun – ness. Now I don’t have to plan my next quick getaway.

    • catherine.art says:

      I know, I love it when someone else shares an itinerary that I can just adopt! Thanks for reading, Jade.

  • We love visiting Florence! We usually stay at Honeyman when we go, and try to get in a day at the dunes while we’re there. There is so much to do in the area. (P.S. I so appreciate your candor regarding the River House’s continental breakfast! 😋)

    • catherine.art says:

      Haha, I am ALL about food, so I like to be honest. 😉 I really want to explore the other dunes around Florence next time we go—did you find there’s much difference between all the parks?

  • Ruthie Ridley says:

    This looks like an incredible trip! I can’t wait to go one day!

  • Wow, I loved your detailed itinerary and beautiful photos! Looks like such a fun place for a quick getaway. Sometimes 24 hours away is just the break we need as parents! 🙂

    • catherine.art says:

      It’s so true! And since we parents have become super efficient by necessity, 24 hours is like a lifetime. 😉

  • Raina says:

    What a great recap! We would definitely love to visit Florence and check out these sights!

  • Cymone says:

    Such great info! Never been to Oregon but it looks beautiful. That dinner looked so good as well!

    xo, c.
    https://letslivelovely.com

  • Nicole Hood says:

    What a nice getaway! You definitely made me want to go to Florence! I love Oregon and haven’t been in years!

  • Kati says:

    I’m going to have to investigate BJ’s. I could eat saltwater taffy until I have a belly ache. Guilty Pleasure!

    • catherine.art says:

      I eat it ONLY when I go to the Oregon Coast, and it’s such a yummy treat every time!

  • Sounds like a lovely and well deserved break with your husband! I have 2 young kids and can’t wait til we can have an escape! The beach and Honeyman State Park look fantastic for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and relaxing in the sun! A great way to refresh yourself and re energise!

    • catherine.art says:

      It so was. We don’t take those kid-free couples getaways as often as we should, but they sure are special when we do!

  • Mayi says:

    Florence reminds me of Brittany in northern France a bit. It seems to be the perfect spot of a weekend getaway, plus they have good food! Perfect!

  • Josy A says:

    We don’t have kids, but i still like the idea of mini getaways, and this sounds lovely!

    With the taffy, do you normally manage to guess the flavours in the end? Or do you ever sneak a peak at the colours to try to remember? I had my first American taffy a few weeks ago (a blogging friend came to visit me and brought some) it is soooo good! I had no idea there were so many crazy flavours!

    • catherine.art says:

      I’d say I’m about 50/50 in correct guessing. There’s always a bit left on the wrapper so I can double-check my guess! Mm, taffy is so good.

  • Claire says:

    This reminds me of the east coast in a lot of ways! Always strange to be exposed to somewhere totally knew, and yet it gives you a familiar feeling. The food all looks so good and the water pristine, sounds like a nice quiet getaway. Was it fun to take your husband somewhere you remembered from childhood?

    • catherine.art says:

      It was! I really enjoyed being a bit of a guide and introducing him to my old favorite places in Florence, sharing memories along the way.

  • Yukti Agrawal says:

    I never knew that there is one Florence in the USA also. It really looks worth visiting with all exotic coastline and sand dunes. The whole place is very stunning and picturesque.

  • Heather says:

    What a beautiful city! I would love to go there one day. I’m sure we’d love it.

  • I never considered Oregon as a family vacation destination. I think my husband will agree that it’s a perfect fit for our family.

    • There is SO MUCH to do in Oregon as a family, especially if you and your crew like to be outside. Please reach out if you have any Qs about visiting my amazing state!

  • Tamara | This Mom's Delight says:

    Oregon sounds like a perfect destination for our growing family this fall. We are now grandparents and looking to take annual vacations with the grown kiddos.

    • We do a lot of 3-generation travel – with my parents or my husband’s parents – so I know firsthand Oregon is a great vacation for multigenerational travel. Also, if you look through the kid friendly hikes, they’re also grandparent friendly. My MIL has two knee replacements and can do all the hikes I feature here!

  • Kileen says:

    Looks like such a great trip and sounds like an awesome place to visit! Definitely want to stop by someday!

    Kileen
    cute & little

  • Amanda says:

    Sounds like a perfect 24 hours! But since I love to go slowly and leisurely while traveling, I would do 19 things in one weekend!

    • 19 things to pack in one weekend is quite the feat. That’s why it’s such a good idea to prioritize your activities so you’re not zipping from one thing to another!

  • Rachel says:

    This looks like an absolutely amazing place to visit!

  • Catherine – I enjoyed this post and the pretty photo you posted very much. I’ll be driving up from Bandon September 2 and plan to spend the night in Florence. – and head out for Lincoln City the next morning. How much time would you recommend I spend near Florence before heading up the coast – and what are the absolutely best places to make fantastic photos. BTW, I’m a photographer and love to make landscape/waterscape photos.

    • Hi William, thanks for reading! I think you need at least a full day in Florence, though you’d miss a few of the true gems and would feel a bit rushed. 2 days is a better bet. Then as you drive north on Highway 101, stop at some of the many, many viewpoints for opportunities for incredible landscape photography. I don’t know all their names or mileposts, but you pretty much can’t go wrong wherever you pause. Have an amazing trip!

  • Leah says:

    Florence, Oregon, looks lovely! The meals alone sound worth it! Crab-crusted salmon?! Sign me up! We are planning to road trip from CA to WA next year, so I will definitely keep your recommendations in mind.

  • Great post, I did not know about this city at all but now I want to visit. I have to mention the food and salt water taffy (as a Jersey girl who grew up buying them from the shore) looked sooo delicious. How did you like them?

  • Andi says:

    We stayed a week in Florence in our RV and absolutely loved it! It is such a great spot for fun, eating and adventure!

  • Sarah says:

    Wow! I never knew you could do so many things in just 24 hours there 🙂

  • Christine says:

    I’ve actually never been to Oregon and never heard of Florence until your post. My husband and I have been talking about going to Oregon to see the coast and check out some places to hike. Looks like we need to add some time in Florence too!

  • Jordan says:

    I’ve never been to Oregon, but it’s on my bucket list. I think I’ll add Florence too. I particularly like the food options you showed, which look delicious. I’ve also never had saltwater taffy, so I know I need to try that. And splurging for the room with the killer view is a must!

    • Ooh, I hope you make it to Oregon soon, Jordan! Florence is definitely a great destination and gives you a wonderful sense of the Oregon Coast. And def eat some saltwater taffy while you’re there!

  • Great post. Love all the highlights and I plan on traveling to Oregon next summer so I’ll be saving this. The pictures of the sand dunes are awesome and I’m sold! Plus it seems we both appreciate good coffee!

    • Haha, if you’re about good coffee, Oregon is your spot! Give me a shout before your trip to Oregon, or when you’re here. I’m always happy to give personalized recommendations!

  • Rudy says:

    Thank you for the article. We went to the sand dunes a several years ago, but had no idea they have such beautiful beaches. Interesting that parking is free if you stay less than 45min. I guess everybody pays then…

    • Yeah, I can hardly believe people spend less than 45 minutes on the beautiful beaches in Florence, OR – but maybe for some it’s a pit stop? And yes, the dunes in Florence are epic!

  • So nice you had some time away without kids. Love the look of Florence beach at low tide, and those cobra lilies, wow, I haven’t seen those before.

  • April says:

    Oregon is one of my top lists in visiting the State! I love this place! Thanks for sharing this detailed information I’m very sure it can help us in our future travel. I love clam chowder 😁❤️

    • You’re so welcome! I’m a bit biased, but I think Oregon is one of the most magical places in the entire country. Please give me a shout if you ever want personalized recommendations of what to do in Oregon!

  • Smita says:

    Sounds like a great trip! Your saltwater taffy tradition sounds really fun – and would totally not lead to over indulging 😛 Beautiful pictures – the beach looks so relaxing!

  • You really packed a lot into 24 hours! Florence looks like my kinda place with dunes and waterfront dining and nature preserves and sunsets. And whoever heard of a carnivorous plant garden? As a garden lover, I would have to see that for sure! You had me at crab-crusted salmon in a shrimp and caper sauce at 1285 Restobar… just added Florence Oregon to my bucket list. Thanks for the inspiration!

  • Such great suggestions. If I’m ever there visiting I will check these places out for sure.

Leave a Reply