Plucking a sand dollar out of the surf and tucking it into my jacket pocket, I looked up and saw my boyfriend hunting for agates further down the beach. Sharing a mutual love for nature and enjoying the last few peaceful moments before sunset, we walked hand-in-hand towards dinner reservations at a beachside restaurant best known for serving up the day’s freshest catch, which at this time of year is Dungeness crab and halibut.
Pairing our meal with glasses of local wine – dry Riesling for me and Pino Gris for my partner in crime – we reflect on the adventures of the day as the sky shifts into shades of pink and purple before sinking into the sea.
After a night cap, we stroll back to our fireplace suite in the resort and spa just next door. With the soft glow of the fire lighting the room, we open the door to our balcony to feel the salty breeze and hear the calming noise of the waves as we snuggle together under a warm wool blanket—the perfect end to a perfect romantic weekend on the Oregon coast.
From the ocean to the mountains, and the high desert to urban Portland, Oregon offers couples plenty of venues that specialize in romantic getaways. Here are some of the state’s best destinations for a weekend of couple’s connection, adventure and pampering.