Explore the journey — one trail, museum, meal, and memory at a time.
Tillamook Creamery
From a quiet overnight spot above the beach in Newport to a memorable encounter with a local artist, the day unfolds along Oregon’s coast. A stop at Tillamook Creamery brings more food than expected—and consequences—before a misdirected drive to Cape Meares Lighthouse adds one more unexpected turn to a day that didn’t quite go as planned.
Oregon Coast Aquarium
Driving the Oregon coast from Florence to Newport turned into more than just another stretch of Highway 101. A stop at the Oregon Coast Aquarium delivered unexpected moments—from glowing jellyfish to close encounters with puffins—followed by a quiet overnight near the ocean. One of those days that ends up being better than planned.
Point Arena Lighthouse and Redwoods
A foggy coastal morning near Point Arena leads to a slow drive north along Route 1, with dramatic cliffs, quiet towns, and reflective shoreline scenes. The route turns inland toward U.S. Route 101 and the Avenue of the Giants, where towering redwoods, muted forest floors, and a remote overnight stop mark a complete shift from ocean to deep forest.
Bodega Bay, CA
What started as a quick stop at Bodega Head turned into a full day on the cliffs. Between the wildflowers, coastal views, shifting light, and even a sheriff’s helicopter training exercise, this stretch of coastline delivered far more than expected. It felt like a reset after a rough month and a reminder of why I’m out here in the first place.