The Oregon Coast is a true #pnwonderland. It's home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Pacific Coast, numerous iconic rock formations and natural wonders, and some of the region's most winsome wildlife and charming lighthouses. Highway 101, otherwise known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is a north-south route that runs through California, Oregon, and Washington, running parallel to the Pacific Coast and putting parenthesis on all 363 miles of the Oregon Coast. Within the Central Oregon Coast, the charming town of Florence is right around the halfway point of this iconic coastal route.
Florence is an unassuming and charming little beach town located on the Central Oregon Coast, marking the halfway point of U.S. Highway 101.
While not as well-known as some of its more popular coastal bretheren, Florence is extraordinary in many ways.
The beaches in Florence are a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and beachcombers alike -- this charming little locale is home to the world's first sandboarding park! In fact, Florence is known as the Sandboarding Capital of the World.
Just outside town, Heceta Head Light is a true PNW icon; it's one of the most photographed landmarks on the coast.
In fact, the 1,000-foot Heceta Head is the centerpiece of the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint, and is an Oregon bucket-list must!
Of course, whales are another PNW icon, and with some of the best beaches and scenic vistas in the state, Florence is the ideal place to look for these majestic marine mammals.
The hiking in Florence is also incredible, offering explorers an unrivaled "sea meets forest" experience.
Pictured above is part of the Hobbit Trail, an easy trek in Florence that features old-growth forests, winsome woodland scenery, and a completely magical experience.
Of course, all of the outdoor adventures in Florence are sure to work up quite an appetite; happily, there's much to choose from in this delightful town.
If you're into Dungeness crab, ICM Restaurant has the best in the PNW! At this humble little restaurant, the boats come in daily, bringing with them the bounty of the sea, and diners can enjoy the freshest and most plentiful Dungeness crab in the state!
Prefer chowder? Head to Mo's! Mo's is an Oregon institution; and its Florence location on the banks of the Siuslaw River boasts some of the best views in town.
Of course, none of the views in town compare to what you'll get when you check into Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast.
Built in 1893, the assistant lightkeeper's house is one of the last remaining on the Pacific Coast. Visitors can book a room and play "light keeper" for the night. Talk about the ultimate only-in-Oregon experience!
So the next time you find yourself cruising down the Oregon Coast along Highway 101, plan to stop halfway in the charming little town of Florence. You'll be so glad you did.
When was the last time you visited Florence, Oregon? Did you know it was the halfway point of U.S. Highway 101 on the Oregon Coast? What a charming spot to stop and explore!
Looking for more adventures on the Oregon Coast? These towns in Oregon each make for picture-perfect day (and overnight) trips.
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