Achieving The Perfect Family Beach Outing
What Could be more Ideal than Going to the Beach?
Speaking in the most general sense, grabbing the kiddies, packing up the car with whatever necessities they sensibly require, and heading off to the beach – almost any random beach – would likely fit just about anyone’s definition of a potential great family getaway. In concept it’s a hard idea to beat. But there are beaches and shoreline of all kinds, waves and weather of all kinds (and temperatures), and local services, amenities, and local attractions of all kinds that can significantly affect the deviation in outcome form this vacation ideal.
A Little Forethought and Preplanning Helps
>Think about the ages of you kids, and their abilities, temperaments, and tolerances. Generally speaking, if getting into the water is the main aim, more northerly = cold, and more southerly = warmer (or quite not so cold). The same goes for air temperatures and inclement weather – although rain and fog can happen anywhere, and is notoriously difficult to predict. What does your family want to do? What can you kids handle?
You Might Think About Safety Also
Perhaps a shoreline full of interesting rock formations might be fine for able-bodied, older children, but you might want to think twice about clambering over a sea stack with a toddler in tow – especially if that toddler is remotely likely to toddle off on their own. Rocks can have sharp edges and other hazards. And a child that senses the almost universal allure of the waves and water may not understand the power and danger of them, and could be at risk without strict supervision. Some adults have this problem too. So watch yourself. Take a look at the tips on our Stay, Play, & Travel Safe page for more info.
How to Choose a Beach
It would be quite impossible for us to recommend any particular beach that is especially family-friendly because we don’t know what your family is like. If hard pressed, Seaside, Oregon earns high marks for being a pretty terrific place for families overall. But there are other beaches that are similarly safe, fun, and beautiful, all up and down the FunBeachFun coast. Get yourself a map, or consult one online. See what is nearest to you. Ask your friends about their experiences and suggestions. Start exploring. Eventually, you will find your own special beach that is your family’s ideal, perfect spot.
Fifteen Minutes Later Been There, Done That, Now What?
Whatever amount of time it takes to stick their toes in the water, throw the frisbee a few times, chase the dog, fly a kite, find a few shells or interesting pebbles, when they start asking “What do we do now?” it’s helpful to have something up you sleeve (a plan B…or C) if they are bored, or cold, or both. It could just be time to break out the snacks. Oftentimes that’s all that’s needed. But something else altogether may be in order.
Seaside (or Nearby) Attractions to The Rescue
From north to south along the FunBeachFun coast there are all sorts of other things to do for families of all shapes, sizes, and inclinations. You might want to plan your beach trip around the proximity of one of these alternate activities for the kids amusement and/or edification (or your own). Opportunities range from quiet indoor (aquariums and museums) to active outdoor (hiking, bike or kayak rentals), or carrousel rides (and other amusements), and educational (historical landmarks, zoos, and nature centers).
Family-Friendly Attractions you might Consider Trying
Below is a listing of some amusements, attractions, and points of interest that might appeal to your family. Families differ as much as the individuals in them. So look for something that is a shared-interest of as many individuals as possible. These destinations are arranged (North to South) and listed under four regions: North Coast; Central; South; and North CA.
Family Recommendations
North Coast Playing
North Coast Playing
- Astoria Riverfront Trolley
Astoria Riverfront Trolley
(541) 325-6311
1 Basin St
Astoria, OR 97103
http://www.old300.orgRide a restored 1913 trolley for 2.6 miles along the Columbia River in Astoria. Catch it anywhere on the riverfront between Basin and 39th streets. Roundtrip ride is $1, an all day pass is $2. The round trip takes about an hour.
- Astoria Music Festival
Astoria Music Festival
503-325-9896
1271 Commercial Street
Astoria, OR 97103
http://astoriamusicfestival.orgIn one short decade the Astoria Music Festival has become one of the most active summer musical events in the Northwest. There’s something for every taste and pocketbook from opera and full orchestral music to “Classics 4 Kids,” dance performances, intimate chamber music and informal Happy Hours. It’s a feast for the senses.
- Discover Paragliding, Warrenton Coupon
Discover Paragliding, Warrenton
503-861-2772
91648 Schaffer Drive
Warrenton, OR 97146To soar with the eagles has been one of mankind’s oldest and most exciting dreams. Finally, with paragliding, you can make that dream come true for you too. Discover ParaGliding meets ll you paragliding needs for training, equipment, and information. Introductory “tandem” experience, seaside towing, gift certificates. Real adventure awaits!
15% OFF Introductory Tandem Experience
Central Coast Playing
Central Playing
- Yachats Playing Recommendations
Yachats, Oregon Playing Recommendations:
Touchstone Gallery541-547-4121
2118 US Highway 101
Yachats, OR 97498
http://touchstone-gallery.blogspot.com/p/about-us.htmlTouchstone Gallery represents 120 Northwest artists offering whimsical, sophisticated and graceful designs in jewelry, glass, ceramics, original oil and watercolor paintings, bronze, metal and stone sculpture — all designed to lift your heart, mind and spirit. At Touchstone we want to make your shopping experience fun and easy, so we offer free gift wrapping and shipping at cost as well as gift certificates and gift registry services.
- Florence, Three Rivers Casino & Hotel
Three Rivers Casino & Hotel
1-877-374-8377
5647 Hwy 126
Florence, OR 97439
http://www.threeriverscasino.com/hotelRelax and rejuvenate in one of our 90 oversized deluxe rooms, offering plush comfort and distinctive amenities such as free high speed laptop internet access, 42” flat screen TV’s, sumptuous beds fit for royalty, all complemented by a captivating view. Or pamper yourself with the incomparable luxury found in our three lavish suites. In February 2012 Three Rivers Casino & Hotel was awarded Green Seal™ Silver Certification for our proven dedication to environmental stewardship.
- Reedsport Playing Recommendations
Reedsport, Oregon Playing Recommendations:
Kelly’s RV Rentals541-290-0132
343 Fir Avenue
Reedsport, OR 97467
https://www.kellysrvrentals.com/Oregon_Coast_RV_Rentals.htmlFormerly known as Oregon Dunes RV Rentals, we have expanded into Nevada and California and have changed our name to Kelly’s RV Rentals! Same great trailers! Same great service!
SpinReel Dune Buggy & ATV Rentalhttp://www.ridetheoregondunes.com/
When you rent a vehicle from us, or take a tour, you will experience the awesome windswept dunes, drive on scenic sand trails or ride along the breathtaking Pacific Ocean beach. Spinreel is very family oriented and we encourage family members from infants to grandparents to come and experience everything the beautiful Oregon Sand Dunes have to offer. The thrill is an experience the whole family will remember for years to come. At Spinreel, we have something for everyone!
Sun Buggy Fun Rentalshttp://www.sunbuggy.com/oregon/
The worlds largest off road race driving and tour experience! With vehicles designed and fabricated in house, you’ll be driving something truly rare, a vehicle designed specifically for the type of terrain you’re driving on, not a general purpose mass produced machine.
- Lakeside Playing Recommendations
Lakeside, Oregon Playing Recommendations:
SpinReel Dune Buggy and ATV Rental541-759-3313
67045 Spinreel Road
Lakeside, OR 97459
http://www.ridetheoregondunes.com/Spinreel is very family oriented and we encourage family members from infants to grandparents to come and experience everything the beautiful Oregon Sand Dunes have to offer. The thrill is an experience the whole family will remember for years to come. At Spinreel, we have something for everyone!
- North Bend Playing Recommendations
North Bend, Oregon Playing Recommendations:
Spinreel Dune Buggy and ATV Rental541-759-3313
67045 Spinreel Road
North Bend, OR 97459
http://www.ridetheoregondunes.comRent Quads, ATV’s to drive or take a tour and have an experienced guides drive you. Experience the awesome windswept dunes, drive on scenic sand trails or ride along the breathtaking Pacific Ocean beach.
- Coos Bay Playing Recommendations
Coos Bay, Oregon Playing Recommendations:
coos Bay Speedway541-269-2474
94320 Highway 42
Coos Bay, OR 97420
http://www.coosbayspeedway.us/Oval track, drag racing, mud drag. NHRA Drag Racing. Dirt Oval Track.
Pacific Charter Services, Coos Bay541-294-2243
476 Newmark Avenue
Coos Bay, OR 97420
pacificcharterservices.comFor all your fishing and crabbing needs, trust Pacific Charter Services LLC of Coos Bay, OR. We have one of the best charter boats on the Southern Oregon Coast! Lead by Captain Thomas Kramer, Pacific Charter Services LLC is your dedicated partner in whale watching and bay cruises.
Sunset Bay Golf Course Coos Bay541-888-9301
89516 Cape Arago Hwy
Coos Bay, OR 97420
http://www.sunsetbaygolf.com/Located on Cape Arago, and next to Sunset Bay State Park on the beautiful central Oregon Coast. Designed by prominent Oregon golfing figure John Zoller, Sunset Bay spans a hugh hundred acre parcel.
The Mill Casino800-953-4800
3201 Tremont Street
North Bend, OR 97459
http://www.themillcasino.com/Have Fun at the Mill Casino! A destination unlike any other on the Oregon Coast! The hotel has stunning waterfront views of Coos Bay from every suite. The RV Park is set in a tranquil park like waterfront location along the Oregon Coast with 102 level sites. The Casino has great gaming, entertainment, dining and promotions. Experience Oregon’s Adventure Coast just moments from The Mill Casino Hotel & RV Park along Coos Bay!
- Charleston Playing Recommendations
Charleston, Oregon Playing Recommendations:
Betty Kay Charters Charleston541-888-9020
Albacore Drive
Charleston, OR 97420
http://www.bettykaycharters.com/Our Crew, Captain Bill and Captain Kathi, and Captain Kurt are ready to give you a memorable, fun fishing trip. They will go all out to find and get you fish! Captain Bill and Captain Kathi will give you helpful tips and assist you. You will also have fun, adventure and great catches fishing with Capt. Kurt Smith. Your safety and fun is our focus.
South Coast Playing
South Coast Playing
- Bandon, Vicki G Hair Salon & Day Spa
Vicki G Hair Salon & Day Spa
541-347-1900
180 11th St. SE
Bandon, OR 97411
http://vickigspa.com/Our goal is to achieve total customer satisfaction by striving for excellence in all areas of our business, and to deliver unsurpassed service. We practice the highest form of team work, that means the skills of our entire staff are available to you. Meeting your salon service needs is our top priority.
- Bandon Crossings Golf Course
Bandon Crossings Golf Course
541-347-3232
87530 Dew Valley Lane
Bandon, OR 97411
http://www.bandoncrossings.com/Some land is made for golf. Bandon, Oregon is one of those places. Built on ancient sand dunes, Bandon Crossings has great drainage and undulations that make for an interesting course. The 340-acre parcel that makes up Bandon Crossings is very diverse. During a round of golf, you will encounter open grasslands, cross over ravines and valleys, and wind through forests full of Douglas Firs and beautiful red barked madrones. Located 5 Miles South of Bandon on Hwy 101. With beautiful fairways and breathtaking scenery, this 18 hole public golf course is fun and challenging.
- Bandon Beach Riding Stables
Bandon Beach Riding Stables
541-347-3423
54629 Beach Loop Road
Bandon, OR 97411Handicapped Welcome. Our North Beach Trip is all on the beach. Enjoy the tide pools, beautiful rocks and caves. 3 miles lasting about 1 hour. Rides leave at 10:00 am, 12:00 p.m, 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm. Sunset Rides are May through September at 6:00 pm. All on the beach, across creeks, view picturesque caves and beautiful rocks, 4 miles and about 1 & 1/2 to 2 hours. Enjoy Bandon Beach. It is best to make reservations. All trips are guided.
- Brookings Harbor, Tidewind Sportfishing
Tidewind Sportfishing, Brookings
541-469-0337
16368 Lower Harbor Road
Brookings Harbor, OR 97415
http://www.tidewindsportfishing.comAre you ready for some uncrowded deep sea sport fishing? How about the relaxing excitement of whale watching? At Tidewind Sport Fishing and Whale Watching you can experience all of that and more. We also have provide other recreational ocean trips.Tidewind Sportfishing and Whale Watching isn’t only an ocean fishing charter. We also provide river guide service along the Southern Oregon Coast; “The Banana Belt of Oregon” at Brookings-Harbor.
- Brookings Harbor, Salmon Run
Salmon Run, Brookings
541-469-4888
99040 County Highway 808
Brookings Harbor, OR 97415
http://www.salmonrun.net/Embrace the challenge and nature’s splendor! Salmon Run has designed different membership programs for frequent golfers. Choose from the Players, Associate, or Executive Membership as an individual, couple, or family and you will start to realize savings from the very beginning.
- Brookings Harbor, Ross Bell Fishing Guide Service
Ross Bell Fishing Guide Service, Brookings
541-698-8103
http://www.fishtherogueriver.com/Enjoy year round Rogue River fishing!! The Rogue is located in Gold Beach, Oregon, and remains one of eight rivers in the United States designated as wild and scenic. Take in spectacular river views where wildlife abounds (Osprey, Snowy Egret, Blue Heron, deer, elk, otter, beaver and more). Oregon salmon fishing for Coho, Chinook and Steelhead!!
- Brookings Harbor, Fitness At The Club
Fitness at the Club
541-469-1888
98158 W. Benham Lane
Brookings Harbor, OR 97415
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fitness-at-the-Club-FATC/205958627458FATC offers 24-hour access to state-of-the-art Cybex equipment including several treadmills, upper and lower body ellipticals, recumbent bikes, and a complete line of weight-lifting machines and free weights for total body strengthening!
- Brookings Harbor, Azalea Lanes
Azalea Lanes, Brookings
541-469-4244
410 Oak Street
Brookings Harbor, OR 97415Have Fun Bowling at Azalea Lanes! We hear they make a great burger!
North CA Playing
North California Playing
- Crescent City Ocean World
Ocean World, Crescent City
707-464-4900
304 Hwy 101 South
Crescent City, CA 95531
http://www.oceanworldonline.comHome to an amazing variety of sea life! This privately owned and operated aquarium has been in Crescent City since 1964. Included in the aquarium are sharks, seals, sea lions, rays and wolf eels. A tide pool and sea lion performance make this a must visit for the entire family. Featuring guided tours and “touch and feel” tide pool activities for all ages
- Crescent City Lucky 7 Casino
Lucky 7 Casino
707-487-7777
350 North Indian Road
Smith River, CA 95567
http://www.lucky7casino.com/Imagine a place where the giant Northern California redwoods kiss the mighty Pacific Ocean. A wondrous combination of rivers and coastline set among California’s most scenic redwood forests and state parks. We are surrounded by a magnificent landscape. We feature Live Blackjack, Video Poker, Slots and Casino Bingo. Open 365 days a year and always ready to accommodate your favorite casino game.
- Crescent City Elk Valley Casino
Elk Valley Casino
1-888-574-2744
2500 Howland Hill Road
Crescent City, CA 95531
http://www.elkvalleycasino.com/Located along the Northern California’s rugged coastline, nestled in the redwood. Whether you are vacationing or just traveling through, Elk Valley Casino offers you a gaming experience that will make your visit a memorable one!
- Klamath River Jet-Boat Tours
Klamath River Jet-Boat Tours707-482-7775
17635 U.S 101
Klamath, CA 95548
http://www.jetboattours.com/Operating seasonally from May 1st through September 30th, Klamath Jet Boat Tours invites you to join them on one of their daily fun-for-all tours up the famous Klamath River. An experienced captain and narrator will describe the River’s rich history, local Native American culture, and thriving wildlife. Bear, Blacktail Deer, Elk, Soaring Osprey, Eagles, Hawks, Otters, Mink and many other varieties of wildlife may be seen by looking carefully along the riverbanks.
- Klamath River Jet-Boat ToursKlamath River Jet-Boat Tours
707-482-7775
17635 U.S 101
Klamath, CA 95548
http://www.jetboattours.com/Operating seasonally from May 1st through September 30th, Klamath Jet Boat Tours invites you to join them on one of their daily fun-for-all tours up the famous Klamath River. An experienced captain and narrator will describe the River’s rich history, local Native American culture, and thriving wildlife. Bear, Blacktail Deer, Elk, Soaring Osprey, Eagles, Hawks, Otters, Mink and many other varieties of wildlife may be seen by looking carefully along the riverbanks.
- Trees of Mystery, Klamath California Coupon
The Trees of Mystery, Klamath
800-638-3389
15500 US Highway 101 N.
Klamath, CA 95548This is a nearby MUST SEE (only 5.6 miles north of Klamath)! Explore the Trees of Mystery where you’ll be overwhelmed by the unusual redwoods, adapting in fantastic ways in order to be among the “oldest Living Things on the Planet.” Ride Sky Trail and get a bird’s eye view of the redwoods and the only six passenger forest gondola on the continent glides you silently through the forest canopy.
$2.00 OFF General Admission (Adult, ages 13-59) Price
- Klamath Playing Recommendations
Klamath, California Playing Recommendations:
Klamath River Jet-Boat Tours
707-482-7775
17635 U.S 101
Klamath, CA 95548
http://www.jetboattours.com/Operating seasonally from May 1st through September 30th, Klamath Jet Boat Tours invites you to join them on one of their daily fun-for-all tours up the famous Klamath River. An experienced captain and narrator will describe the River’s rich history, local Native American culture, and thriving wildlife. Bear, Blacktail Deer, Elk, Soaring Osprey, Eagles, Hawks, Otters, Mink and many other varieties of wildlife may be seen by looking carefully along the riverbanks.
The Trees of Mystery, Klamath
800-638-3389
15500 US Highway 101 N.
Klamath, CA 95548
http://www.treesofmystery.net
This is a nearby MUST SEE (only 5.6 miles north of Klamath)! Explore the Trees of Mystery where you’ll be overwhelmed by the unusual redwoods, adapting in fantastic ways in order to be among the “oldest Living Things on the Planet.” Ride Sky Trail and get a bird’s eye view of the redwoods and the only six passenger forest gondola on the continent glides you silently through the forest canopy.
$2.00 OFF General Admission (Adult, ages 13-59) Price. Click Here
- Orick Paddle a Kayak from Kayak Zak’s Kayak Rental
Paddle a Kayak from Kayak Zak’s Kayak Rental707-498-1130
115336 Highway 101
Trinidad, CA 95570
http://www.kayakzak.com/Want to experience a more aquatic adventure? Why not rent a kayak and paddle around Big Lagoon County Park just south of Orick. Experienced or novice, with a little training anyone can have a great time in a kayak. See every kind of wildlife in our area – up close! River otters, great blue herons, egrets, osprey, belted kingfisher, and bald eagles enjoy all of our coastal lagoons, and rivers. BTW, Kayak Zak is the salamander in the logo. Zak loves living on the redwood coast because he is a water creature and we have all kinds of water to play in. Kayak Zak’s motto is “More Fun is More Good!” (salamanders have little comprehension of English grammar).
- Klamath River Jet-Boat ToursKlamath River Jet-Boat Tours
707-482-7775
17635 U.S 101
Klamath, CA 95548
http://www.jetboattours.com/Operating seasonally from May 1st through September 30th, Klamath Jet Boat Tours invites you to join them on one of their daily fun-for-all tours up the famous Klamath River. An experienced captain and narrator will describe the River’s rich history, local Native American culture, and thriving wildlife. Bear, Blacktail Deer, Elk, Soaring Osprey, Eagles, Hawks, Otters, Mink and many other varieties of wildlife may be seen by looking carefully along the riverbanks.
- Trinidad Cher Ae Heights Casino
Cher Ae Heights Casino707-677-3611
27 Scenic Drive
Trinidad, CA 95570
http://www.cheraeheightscasino.com/index.phpCher-Ae Heights Casino has the hottest gaming action on the North Coast our casino floor offers over 50,000 square feet of comfort and convenience. With over 300 slots, a variety of blackjack/table games and an 800-seat Bingo Hall, no matter what game you play, we’ve got you covered!
- Orick Paddle a Kayak from Kayak Zak’s Kayak RentalPaddle a Kayak from Kayak Zak’s Kayak Rental
707-498-1130
115336 Highway 101
Trinidad, CA 95570
http://www.kayakzak.com/Want to experience a more aquatic adventure? Why not rent a kayak and paddle around Big Lagoon County Park just south of Orick. Experienced or novice, with a little training anyone can have a great time in a kayak. See every kind of wildlife in our area – up close! River otters, great blue herons, egrets, osprey, belted kingfisher, and bald eagles enjoy all of our coastal lagoons, and rivers. BTW, Kayak Zak is the salamander in the logo. Zak loves living on the redwood coast because he is a water creature and we have all kinds of water to play in. Kayak Zak’s motto is “More Fun is More Good!” (salamanders have little comprehension of English grammar).
- McKinleyville Beau Pre Golf Club
Beau Pre Golf Club707-839-2342
1777 Norton Raod
Mckinleyville, CA 95519
http://www.beaupregolf.com/The Pacific coastline provides a spectacular landscape for this challenging 18 hold championship golf course. Beau Pre Golf Club is located in Northern California’s beautiful Humboldt County. Redwood National Park and Six Rivers National Forest neighbor the towns of McKinleyville, Blue Lake, Ferndale, Fortuna, Eureka, Arcata and Trinidad, which are all a short drive from McKinleyville. The Pacific coastline provides a spectacular landscape for this challenging 18 hole championship golf course.
- Arcata Theatre Lounge
Arcata Theatre Lounge707-822-1220
1036 G Street
Arcata, CA 95521
http://www.arcatatheater.com/A 1938 Art Deco Cinema that has been reborn as an entertainment venue offering the best in live music, movies, dining and dancing. A beautiful venue et casual, fun, social and unique in it’s array of entertainment.
- Eureka Sequoia Park Zoo
Sequoia Park Zoo707-441-4263
3414 W Street
Eureka, CA 95503
http://www.sequoiaparkzoo.net/visit/Established in 1907, Sequoia Park Zoo is the oldest zoo in California and one of the smallest accredited zoos in the country. Featured exhibits include a “Walk-Through Aviary” with a variety of bird species in free-flight, “The Barnyard” with contact corral, and “Secrets of the Forest” showcasing native reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. See Spider monkeys swinging around and admire our endangered Cotton-topped tamarins. Marvel at our Chacoan peccaries’ wiggly snouts and learn more about the exotic Patagonian cavy- the world’s second largest rodent. Listen for the distinctive call of our White-handed gibbons or discover if our American black bear is taking a dip in her pond. The Sequoia Park Zoo is full of unique and exciting species. Come visit Sumo and Shifu, our new Red panda brothers, and watch them settle into their new home. Red pandas are an endangered species and a relative rarity in zoos.
- Eureka Bounce a PaloozaBounce A Palooza
707-444-8488
3300 Broadway Street #128
Eureka, CA 95501
http://www.eurekabounce.com/The ONLY indoor play place of its kind in Humboldt County! Located in The Bayshore Mall in Eureka, Bounce-A-Palooza offers giant inflatables to bounce, jump and slide on.
- Loleta Bear River Casino
Bear River Casino
707-733-9644
11 Bear Paws Way
Loleta, CA 95551
http://bearrivercasino.com/bearrivercasino/Bear_River_Casino_Hotel.htmlFeaturing the most generous slots on the North Cost with plenty of Big Jackpots, Bonus Games and special features. The entertainment is super as well. Check the calendar to see who is appearing during your visit. Thursday night is always karaoke night at the Thirsty bear lounge. Join in the fun! Come stay! Come play!