Things to Do on the Oregon Coast Archives

May 09 2022

Explore Local Favorite Lincoln City Shops When Staying at Olivia Beach Vacation Rentals

Lincoln City boasts miles of sandy beaches, endless outdoor activities, great restaurants, and a vibrant shopping scene. A stay at the beloved seaside community of Olivia Beach will put you within easy reach of everything Lincoln City has to offer. Explore some of our favorite places to shop when staying at Olivia Beach:

Mine for Gold, Shop for Crystals and Meet a Baby T-rex at Prehistoric

Prehistoric offers an entertaining and educational shopping experience for kids of all ages. They have an interesting selection of fossils, minerals, crystals, and meteorites on display, and for purchase.

Sharpen Your Shopping (and Ax-Throwing!) Skills at Scout Northwest Trading Company

Scout Northwest Trading Company sells a wide variety of outdoor apparel, gear, and equipment. They also have an axe throwing area to liven up your shopping experience! Not finding what you are looking for? Explore the rest of the Lincoln City Outlets…home to over 50 designer and name brand retail stores to choose from.

Take a Little Piece of Lincoln City (or the PNW!) Home from Ginger Roots Home Store

Ginger Roots Home is a locally owned home décor shop stocked with a wonderful selection of bedding and bath items, kitchen and barware pieces, toys, and gifts for your pet, and more!

Hunt for Time-Honored Treasures at The Little Antique Mall

With over 80 dealers under one roof, The Little Antique Mall is the largest antiques mall on the Oregon Coast. Whether you are just browsing, or looking for a specific piece, the knowledgeable and helpful staff will help you find a special treasure.

Sunday Funday Begins When You Buy Local at the Lincoln City Farmers and Crafters Market

Start your Sunday morning with a stroll through various stalls selling everything from fresh produce, baked goods, wine, meat, cheeses, eggs, honey, handcrafted items, and so much more! The whole family (leashed pups, too!) will enjoy live music, special entertainment, and magic shows. Opening day is Sunday, May 8, 9am-2pm.

Ready to plan your next getaway? Meredith Lodging has you covered with an amazing collection of Olivia Beach vacation rentals to choose from. You can view our complete collection online, or call our Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your stay.

We hope to see you soon! In the meantime, follow us on social and tag those vacay posts #STAYWITHMEREDITH.

Mar 17 2022

Top Summer Activities Near Olivia Beach

The days of summer are fast approaching, so now is the time to book your Olivia Beach vacation rental, while many homes are still available. Olivia Beach is perfectly located to grant you access to numerous nearby outdoor activities, great restaurants, and shopping, and of course, beautiful Nelscott beach! Not to mention all the amazing amenities available to guests of Meredith Lodging – access to a fitness center, seasonal pool, and a lovely community park!

To help you plan a memorable summer getaway, we have put together a list of some of our top summer activities near Olivia Beach:

Splish Splash in the Oliva Beach Pool! – You won’t have to go too far to enjoy one of our amazing amenities. Enjoy the convenience and comfort of our heated saltwater outdoor swimming pool.

Hike the Knoll in Roads End. – Locals affectionally call this stunning meadowed hill north of Lincoln City, “The Knoll.” This steep, 3-mile loop hike will reward your efforts with breathtaking views of the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline, Roads End and Devils Lake. Perfect spot to capture your family summer pic, and just a few minutes up Hwy 101 from Olivia Beach.
Hunt for treasures! – Keep your eyes peeled for shells, agates, and of course, the famous and beloved hand-blown glass floats that are hidden all along Lincoln City’s seven miles of sandy beach. Over 3,000 unique glass treasures, made by local artisans, are hidden all along the beach. If you find a float, you get to keep it! Finders Keepers!
Play the day away. – With over 685 acres of serene water protected from coastal winds, Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area is the place to go for paddling, boating, and fishing. The friendly and knowledgeable crew at Safari Town Surf will get you all geared up for a memorable day of kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding on this popular, local lake.
Stroll & shop. – Lincoln City Farmers & Crafters Outdoor Market showcases local produce growers, farmers, bakers, wineries, creameries, artisan foods, and one of a kind handcrafted items. With over 60 vendors, you are sure to find something to prepare a fresh and flavorful meal back at your Olivia Beach rental or pick up a unique gift for that special someone, or a souvenir to take home with you! This outdoor market takes place at the Lincoln City Outlets, Sundays, 9 AM – 2 PM.

Ready to book your summer getaway at Olivia Beach? You can view our complete Oliva Beach vacation rentals collection online, or call our friendly Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your stay. One stay in this charming beach village will have you planning your next summer stay!

We hope to see you soon! In the meantime, follow us on social and tag those vacay posts #STAYWITHMEREDITH.

Feb 09 2022

Tips for Planning Your Whale Watching Weekend Getaway – Olivia Beach

Olivia Beach

Tips for Planning Your Whale Watching Weekend Getaway – Olivia Beach

People from all over the world come to the Oregon Coast to watch gray whales as they migrate along the coast, and spring is one of the best times to see these majestic mammals.

Meredith Lodging has the perfect accommodation for your whale-watching adventure. Book a stay at our beloved seaside community of Olivia Beach in Lincoln City, Oregon. Olivia Beach offers Nantucket-style cottages with front porches to take in stunning ocean views, and exclusive amenities, including: an on-property playground, a sand volleyball court, a community park and firepit, a seasonal pool and fitness center, and easy access to Nelscott Beach.

Ready to have a whale of a good time? We have listed some helpful tips and fun facts to help you start planning a fun and memorable whale watching getaway:

1. Do the research. When you have insight, it brings more meaning to what you’re seeing.

Did you know Gray whales are baleen whales, which means they do not have any teeth? These massive mammals can reach a length of 49ft, weigh up to 90,000lb, and live between 55 and 70 years old. They can dive down to depths of 395ft, and swim up to 33mph, and migrate more than 12,000 miles round trip. That is the longest known migration route of any mammal!

2. Know the viewing times and plan your trip accordingly.

The best viewing times are mid-December through mid-January when the whales are heading south to breed in the warmer waters of Mexico, and late March to June when they travel back up north to Alaska. About 200 resident gray whales remain in Oregon’s coastal waters every year. In the summer and fall, it is possible to see them feeding closer to the shore.

3. Best spot from the shore.

The large viewing deck at The Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center is the perfect spot for spotting whales. The facility is perched on a seawall, providing visitors with panoramic ocean views. Volunteers and park staff are eager to answer your questions, and will happily point out the best spots to view whales, seals, and other native marine life. Please note that the center is temporarily closed, but the viewing deck is open.

4. Experience the thrill up-close on a charter.

There are several charter services to choose from. Tradewind Charters has been providing premier charters for whale watching, bird watching, and sportfishing since 1938. They are known for their friendly and knowledgeable crew, and modern, fully equipped vessels. Dockside Charters, Inc. offers whale watching tours on their comfortable 50-foot Delta charter boats, which include heated cabins, restrooms, and indoor and outdoor seating options. They also accommodate large groups, perfect for family get-togethers!

5. Toast to an exhilarating whale watching experience at Gracie’s Sea Hag.

This local favorite has something for everyone – award-winning clam chowder, fish & chip baskets, seafood melts, homemade desserts, and a kid’s menu. We also love The Horn Public House & Brewery where you can enjoy stunning views, fresh seafood, burgers and sandwiches, handcrafted pizzas, and craft beer. Cheers to a memorable day on the Oregon Coast!

Ready to create memories that will last a lifetime?

Book your whale watching vacation and stay with us at Oliva Beach Vacation Rentals. You can view our complete collection online, or contact our friendly and knowledgeable Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your stay.

Feb 09 2022

Plan a Perfect Romantic Valentine’s Day Getaway to an Olivia Beach Vacation Rental

Olivia Beach Houses

Plan a Perfect Romantic Valentine’s Day Getaway to an Olivia Beach Vacation Rental

The seaside community of Olivia Beach in Lincoln City, Oregon exudes charm, and offers something for everyone – exceptional on-property amenities, breathtaking ocean views, easy access to stunning Nelscott Beach, and is a prime location for exploring the coast.

Plan a Valentine’s getaway for your someone special! A stay in a Meredith Lodging Oliva Beach vacation rental is the perfect start to a Valentine’s getaway you will always remember. Once you have arrived, here are a few suggestions to help you plan a romantic and memorable stay:

Let your loved one sleep in, as you sneak off to get coffee. Head through the drive-through at The Human Bean, where you can pick up your sweetheart his or her favorite coffee drink to go. Enjoy together back on the front porch at your cozy Olivia Beach vacation rental, or head to Nelscott Beach to feel the sand on your toes, and breathe in that fresh, salty ocean air.
Prefer a leisurely, heartier, more brunch-like start to your day? Make your way to Nelscott Café for brunch. Order a freshly baked cinnamon roll to share, and enjoy classic breakfast dishes, or daily specials like crab cake benedict.
Give the gift of relaxation and rejuvenation. After breakfast, surprise your Valentine with a spa day. Locals love Rejuvenation Massage and Spa. Choose from their many restorative services including massage, acupuncture, energy work, and naturopathic medicine.
Treat your favorite sweet tooth. If you didn’t book a couple’s spa day, take advantage of this time to head to The Chocolate Frog to pick up something sweet for your sweetheart. They have a wide selection of handmade truffles, chocolate covered sea foam, chocolate peanut butter cups, and high-end European chocolate.
Make time for sunset! If you did not make it down to the beach in the morning, we recommend taking a sunset stroll. Marvel at the views as you watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean with your loved one. Once you return to your Meredith Lodging Olivia Beach vacation rental you can enjoy a dip in the hot tub under a sky full of stars.
Give the gift of a home-cooked meal, or the gift of reservations. Cook a romantic dinner for two in your fully equipped kitchen at your Oliva Beach rental, or make a reservation at Side Door Café, one of Lincoln City’s most romantic restaurants. This family-run restaurant offers grass-fed beef, locally trolled fish, and farm fresh organic produce in a charming and unique setting. Reservations are encouraged.

Ready to book a romantic getaway to Olivia Beach?

Meredith Lodging offers an amazing collection of Olivia Beach vacation rentals to choose from. You can view our complete collection online or call our Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your stay. One stay in this charming village will have you falling in love!

Feb 09 2022

Best Places for Coffee & Breakfast Near Olivia Beach

Perched over Nelscott Beach in Lincoln City, Olivia Beach is a quaint oceanfront community known for its Nantucket style cottages and stunning ocean views.

Booking an Olivia Beach vacation rental with Meredith Lodging offers our guests access to a fitness center, community park, and a seasonal pool! Many homes are custom built with luxury amenities, including chef’s kitchens, soaker-style tubs, private hot tubs, and front porches perfect for morning coffee.

Looking for some of the best places to eat and drink when staying at Olivia Beach? Here is a list of some of our favorites:

Dutch Bros Coffee. Oregonians love this drive-thru coffee chain known for their friendly service, and specialty coffee and espresso drinks. They also serve delicious smoothies, teas, and baked goods. Looking for a jolt of caffeine? We love the smooth & creamy nitro-infused cold brew – served hot or iced.

My Petite Sweet. Looking for a sweet or savory baked good to start your morning? This beloved coastal bakery has something for everyone, including an extensive daily cupcake menu. We recommend picking up a dozen mini cupcakes to enjoy throughout your stay at Oliva Beach.

The Wildflower Grill. Dine with a view at this charming eatery located in a cozy cottage that serves up American breakfast classics with a twist. We love the crabcake benedict served with regular, Cajun or salsa hollandaise, and their signature French toast – Wildflower toast dipped in eggs, cinnamon, and orange juice.

Nelscott Café. Ready to fuel up before an adventure filled day exploring the coast? This popular neighborhood café serves hearty, homemade breakfast dishes like biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, and eggs benedict. Try to save room for their decadent cinnamon roll, or order one to share with the table!

Pacific Grind Café. This family run café is the perfect spot to grab and go, serving a wide range of espresso drinks and breakfast sandwiches, bagels, pastries, and breakfast burritos.

Ready to plan your next coastal trip to Olivia Beach?

Meredith Lodging has an amazing collection of Lincoln City vacation rentals to choose from. You can view our complete collection online, or call our friendly Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your stay. One stay in this charming coastal village will have you planning your return!

We hope to see you soon! In the meantime, follow us on social and tag those vacay posts #STAYWITHMEREDITH.

Sep 18 2019

Best Rainy Day Activities for Kids Around Lincoln City

As the last days of Summer are heading undeniably toward Fall, it’s a good time to revisit rainy day activities for kiddos on the Coast. Lincoln City has tons of options, and we have rounded up our favorites below. September, October and November can be gorgeous months on the Oregon Coast – and an ideal time to visit Meredith Lodging vacation rentals! On the off-chance you find yourself in stormy weather, pack up the kids and check out these kid-approved Lincoln City outings!

Read’s Candy

It will not be a tough sell to talk the kiddos in to visiting a candy store – rain OR shine! Read’s Homemade Candies is a Lincoln City institution and one of the only places on the coast that still makes their taffy by hand, in-house. The kids will love watching the candy being made and listening to the whir-of the wrapping machines. Read also has lots of coast classics for the grown-ups too – even Seafoam!

Prehistoric

Do you know a kid that is obsessed with all things dinosaur? A kid who likes rocks and uncovering treasure? Pretty sure we have just described every kiddo we know. When the rain hits, head to Prehistoric for hours of education and fun. From the baby T-rex greeting you at the door, to the extensive collection of rare rocks and crystals, to the chance to crack your own geode and mine for precious gems – Prehistoric really is fun for everyone! Your kids will love spending a few hours in this unforgettable space.

Old Line Lanes

Bowling is always a good rainy-day idea…and bowling with great food and drink is even better! Visitors love the remodel the owners of Olde Line Lanes completed a couple years ago and many choose to spend time in this classic space during any kind of weather! The food is great and grown-ups will appreciate the chance to have an adult beverage with their pizza. Everyone will love the chance to get their bowling game on in this cheerful and inviting location.

Lincoln City Glass Center

Take the kiddos for an arts-based outing and visit the Lincoln City Glass Center – where everyone can create their own piece of blown glass, alongside the talented (and patient!) instructors. Make glass floats, paper weights, votive holders – and you even get to choose your own colors. Kids love to create something new and thanks to the expert instruction that comes with this activity, you will love displaying the end result in your home, or sharing it as a gift. If you aren’t feeling in the mood to make something, consider just stopping by and watching others as they create their own personal works of art.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

Technically this outing involves a bit of a drive – but a drive to something fun can be a good thing! Located just South of Lincoln City, the Oregon Coast Aquarium offers and world-class educational experience for curious kiddos. See Otters, Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, Octopus, Puffins and hundreds of other marine species all in one award-winning place. The underwater walkways of the Open Sea exhibit will have your child’s eyes wide with wonder!

Game Over Arcade

With of 50+ arcade games and a myriad of pinball machines, Game Over is a gem when it come to rainy day activities on the Coast. Parents can partake in the action or can relax and take in some sports on the 10+ 70 inch TVs while the kids enjoy themselves. Visit Lincoln City’s gem on your next Oregon Coast getaway rain or shine.

Meredith Lodging has hundreds of vacation rentals along the Central Oregon coast – from Lincoln City beach vacation home and condo rentals to Depoe Bay oceanfront rentals to Devil’s Lake rental properties, you can find your perfect home away from home, and an ideal place to return after a day of adventures on the coast. Visit our entire collection at MeredithLodging.com.

Aug 06 2019

Top Five Family Activities Right Outside Your Door at Olivia Beach Resort by Meredith Lodging

Families LOVE Olivia Beach! The moment we arrive, the charming Nantucket-Cottage-style architecture and inviting front porches make us feel like we have left our cares behind and arrived somewhere extra-special. Add in those beautifully landscaped streets and public spaces that are nearly empty of cars and traffic (thanks to cars parking behind the homes) and the close proximity (and dedicated entrance) to a beautiful stretch of the Oregon coast and you understand why Olivia Beach is a dream vacation destination anytime…and especially when you have kiddos in tow.

Our favorite part of renting a vacation home in Oliva Beach is that so many activities are right outside our door or in nearby walking distance. We’ve captured our favorite family-friendly outings and wanted to share them with you for your next #staywithmeredith at Olivia Beach!

5. Having a catch – or a frisbee tag – in the greenspace. The greenspace at Olivia Beach is like the kitchen in your house – the heart of the community. We love that families use this space every day to play and enjoy the sun when it is shining. It’s the first place our kids want to go upon arrival – and the perfect place to “get the wiggles out” for the whole family.

4. The PLAYGROUND! For the little ones (and their parents), nothing is better than an on-property playground that is easy to get to and requires no “packing up of the car”. We love that we can take a cup of coffee and join our early-risers for some swing and slide time every morning.

3. The Community Firepit – and s’mores for dessert everyday! We try to end as many fun-filled days as we can in this cozy corner of Olivia Beach. From the well-stocked stash of firewood that is ready to go to the expansive seating, to meeting other families who are visiting…we enjoy gathering the whole gang and heading down to the firepit for s’mores and good conversation.

2. Best Pool on the Oregon Coast??? We are pretty sure Olivia Beach has that all locked up. Our kids cannot wait to return to the seasonal pool at Olivia Beach each year (and we love the adjacent fitness center, too!). There is plenty of space for all of us to lounge poolside while they splash and play – and that calming sound of waves at the nearby beach really makes us feel like we are on vacation. Speaking of that….

1. THE BEACH! The stretch of coastline across the street from Olivia Beach is one of the most beautiful we have ever seen, and the dedicated access is so convenient. PRO TIP: one of our favorite places to watch the sunset in Oregon is the bench located about halfway down the beach access stairs…and we have caught many a life-changing sunset from that very spot. Once you get to the beach, there is sand and shoreline for miles and your family will never tire of the seemingly endless sandcastle-building, frisbee throwing, bird watching, tidepool exploring and family gathering opportunities along this gorgeous stretch of the Oregon Coast.

We hope to see you soon when you #staywithmeredith at Olivia Beach! Visit our entire Olivia Beach collection here: Olivia Beach Resort by Meredith Lodging

Dec 06 2018

Beach Vibes During Spring Break in Lincoln City

Haven’t made plans for Spring Break yet? Need to get away from the daily hustle and bustle. Get the family together, jump in the car and take a little road trip to the Oregon Coast. Throughout the month of March, Lincoln City offers fun activities to enjoy in the Oregon Sunshine. From hiking to magic, the Oregon coast has activities for all ages.

Oregon Coast Sunset

Regatta Park

Interested in going fishing but need to keep the kids entertained, head over to Regatta Park and enjoy some much-needed family time. Regatta Park offers a sand castle park and plenty of open grass for the kids to run around on. There is a boat dock available for all styles of boats, places to BBQ and small hiking trails perfect for taking the little ones on a nature walk. Located on the far side of Devils Lake, Regatta Park is open for everyone to enjoy!

Putt N Bat

Too rainy to be outside? Take a trip to the Putt N Bat in town and make a day of it. Putt N Bat has many activities for the whole family. Putt N Bat has created its own mini golf that offering 18 holes and a free round if you get a hole in one! Not only do they have mini golf but they also have major league baseball cages. Starting at $1.50 for 20 balls, Putt N Bat has four speeds to get anyone into the baseball spirit. After a good game of mini golf head over to the arcade and challenge the family to the game of air hockey!

Finders Keepers

Ever heard of the Finders Keepers events that we host in Lincoln City? Throughout the year local glass blowers take to the beach and hide glass floats for anyone to find. For spring break 300 glass floats will be dropped along the 7 1/2 miles of Lincoln Cities public beaches. Rain or shine, grab the family and find a souvenir to remember your trip!

Bijou Theater

Planning a night for your loved one but need somewhere to go before dinner? The Bijou Theater is a perfect date night destination. Located in the middle of town, the Bijou theater is a retro lovers paradise. Dress as if it was still the mid 70’s, the theater offers indie and award-winning films Monday through Sunday during the hours of 2:00 and to about 8:30 at night. Might not be open very late, but it’s located around plenty of restaurants and places to grab a drink!

Festival of Illusions

Ever wonder how David Copperfield did all those amazing tricks? While during spring break, Lincoln City Cultural Center host a week full of performances for you and your little one to learn just that! Each evening features a different professional magician or illusionist, who will take to the crowd and show all their great tricks up close. All evening shows begin at 7 pm, with doors open at 6:30 pm so that you can get the best seat! Not only will there by performances but they will be holding Magic Camps for kids around the ages of 8 to 18.

Now that you have seen all the amazing things Lincoln City has to offer during the month of March, make sure to call over to Olivia or Bella Beach to book your favorite home and make your trip perfect! So many different homes to choose from and the best beaches to witness the beautiful views the Oregon Coast has to offer.

Dec 06 2018

TAKE A HIKE AT THE OREGON COAST

Now that summer is coming to an end and all the kids are heading back to school, you would think that the fun in Lincoln City is over. Well that is far from the truth, no matter the weather there are many great things to do on the coast. Grab your rain jacket and make a trip out to the many different hiking locations around Lincoln City. Drift Creek Falls is just off HWY 101 in the beautiful overgrown forest of the Oregon coast. This hike is family friendly with an easy round trip of three miles. During this hike you will become one with nature and maybe face a fear as you walk across the suspension bridge leading to a breathtaking view of the falls. Autumn is the most picturesque time to spend here, so bring your camera; you definitely won’t want to miss this.
Drift Creek Trail Oregon

Want an ocean view? Make your way over to Cascade Head by heading South just outside of Lincoln City. This trail is a bit more difficult but the view that welcomes you at the end is completely worth it. You can see all of Lincoln City from the top of Cascade Head. This trail is a local favorite! The trail begins at the mouth of the Salmon River Estuary, which in itself is a beautiful stop.

Not interested in hiking but want to take a light walk in the most beautiful and peaceful garden in Lincoln City? The Connie Hansen Garden Conservancy is a perfect stop along HWY 101. Tucked away in Lincoln City, across the street from Starbucks, is a beautiful garden with flowers dotting just about every square inch from Japanese Iris’ to heather beds. Guided tours are an option or take your own personal trip around the garden.