Join your family in a Northwest coastal adventure. Explore the craggy coastline, the beauty of the saltwater beaches, play a round a golf or spot a tufted Puffin. Here are five ideas to consider:
Bandon Dunes, ORE.
With Oregon’s rugged Pacific coastline as a backdrop, a family holiday or reunion at this seaside resort provides a top-notch experience for avid golfers in the group as well as an extensive menu of other on-property and nearby options. Upon check-in, ask about the mapped trail system that winds through sand dunes to vistas of the ocean and the resort’s four golf courses. Expect to enjoy whale watching, horseback riding, fishing, sea kayaking and kite surfing. Birders will be excited to know hundreds of species nest in the area, including the tufted puffin. Golf lessons, including those for Juniors, are available.
Contact: 1-800-742-0172; www.BandonDunesGolf.com.
Forks, WA.
Visit the complex landscape that is protected within the Olympic National Park & Forest. For bird watching, including the most significant habitat for bald eagles in the lower 48, beach combing, hiking and fishing, there are few destinations where families will find more beauty and opportunity to bond with nature.
Consider the Kalaloch Lodge as a cozy home base. Serving up rustic yet charming accommodations, the Lodge offers tremendous views of the Pacific as well as the opportunity to spot puffins, sea otters, seals and a long list of other sea birds. Tap into rich history by asking about the dozens of shipwrecks that have occurred in the area.
Contact: 888-896-3818; www.OlympicNationalParks.com.
Four Seasons, Seattle, WA.
Venture off to high-energy Pike’s Place Market where the kids will be amused by the famous ,fish-flinging market crew. Stroll the waterfront, visit the original Starbucks and tour the Seattle Art Museum. It’s all within a few minutes walking distance from the luxurious hotel, which offers stunning views of Elliott Bay and Puget Sound. The hotel’s Kids in the City package insures in-room movies, pint-sized bathrobes, and age-appropriate welcome amenities. If needed, book a second, adjoining room at half price. Kids will also have the sweet opportunity to join the chef in the pastry kitchen to craft their own cotton candy. Contact: 1 -206 -749-7000; www.fourseasons.com/Seattle.
San Juan Islands, WA.
Hop the ferry from Seattle and explore the San Juan Islands. The destination is comprised of three islands; Orcas, Lopez and San Juan, each with its own distinctive character. An outdoor family’s paradise, your active crew can choose from hiking, road and mountain biking, kayaking, sailing and scanning the sea for the more than 85 orca whales that make their home in this northwest sanctuary. Hike to waterfalls, snack on local produce at farmer’s markets, and enjoy regional creative endeavors at local art galleries.
Contact: 888-468-3701; www.VisitSanJuans.com.
Oregon Coast.
Explore sand dunes, coastal forests, estuaries, and trout rich rivers as you sample the delights of the Oregon coast with the kids. The Forest extends from the coastal town of Tillamook to Coos Bay. Dine on local seafood served up in casual settings. Hike on more than 200 miles of low elevation trails, making it more appealing to both the junior and senior members of your family. Consider camping along the way at one or more of 40 developed campgrounds. The sea breeze and overhead stars are complimentary. Contact: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/siuslaw/ 541-750-7000 For campsite reservations: 1-877-444-6777;