Marshmallows, Muscle Cars, and the Myth of the Featherless Eagle

Escaping the Inferno

After weeks of sweating it out in temperatures hotter than a jalapeno's armpit, it was time for an escape to the Oregon coast. I'd never laid eyes on this legendary coastline, but the rumors of its beauty were too tempting to resist. Plus, trading 100+ degree days for a blissful 60 degrees sounded like heaven on Earth (or at least, heaven in the Pacific Northwest.)

Cruising the Coastal Highway

The drive to Agate Beach was a scenic wonderland. Winding mountain roads, charming little towns – we even passed through one in the midst of a parade! The highlight? A badass caravan of muscle cars, all driven by women who clearly weren't messing around. You go, girls!

Windswept Welcome at Agate Beach

Our home for the next four days, The Agate Beach Motel, sits dramatically atop the bluffs. As we jumped out of the car, the wind nearly sent us tumbling back into the front seat. Note to self: this place takes the phrase "ocean breeze" to a whole new level. Out came the windbreakers, those crumpled-up relics from the back of the closet. Below, we spotted brave souls surfing the waves. We practically flew down the rickety beach stairs to get a closer look.

Feet up, worries down. Taking in the view and the surfers from our cozy perch at the Agate Beach Motel.

Beachy Bliss (and a Bird-Brained Remark)

The shoreline was a sight to behold. You could tell the tide had been high, as little pools of seawater dotted the sand near the cliffs. But the surf break was now a quarter-mile out. I could only imagine the workout it would take to lug a surfboard that far! Thankfully, I was here to stroll and watch, not paddle.

The climb back up might be a bit sketchy, but so worth it!

The trek back up the stairs brought the most unexpected, and unforgettable, source of amusement. We passed a young woman, clearly annoyed with the person on the other end of her phone call.

"Are you guys done yet?" she asked, her voice dripping with irritation.

"No, we're still trying to see the eagle," came the reply.

"You're from California," she retorted. "You see eagles all the time."

"Yeah, but not bald eagles."

And then, the moment I'll cherish forever. Completely deadpan, she fired back, "It wasn't bald. It had feathers!"

I waited for her to giggle, to say "just kidding," anything. But nope, she was serious. I almost fell back down the stairs as I desperately tried to contain my laughter. Oh, the joys of eavesdropping!

Newport Delights: Lighthouses, Libations, and Laughing at Ty

Turns out, the day's entertainment wasn't over. A quick drive into Newport led us to the breathtaking Yaquina Bay Bridge and the Historic Bayfront. Sunshine, cool breeze, a bustling farmer's market – it was the perfect afternoon scene.

Sun, sand, and a stunning bridge in the distance. It doesn't get much better than this.

A detour to Yaquina Bay State Park took us back in time to the Old Yaquina Bay Lighthouse. Built in 1871, it's not your typical tower lighthouse but a charming house with a beacon on top. After a VERY quick history lesson, we headed for the beach again, where we played hopscotch around the little pools. Then it was off to the nearby dunes, where we channeled our inner child and played in the soft sand.

The Old Yaquina Bay Lighthouse: A charming reminder of Oregon's maritime history.

Next up: experiencing the local flavor at Rogue Nation Brewery & Spirits. They already make one of my favorite beers, but enjoying it fresh at this awesome location? Pure bliss. A pint of Batsquatch Hazy on tap paired with a heavenly Reuben sandwich? I was in foodie heaven. Ty opted for a healthier meal but spent the entire time eyeing my Reuben like a hungry seagull. Hopefully his whiskey flight soothed his jealousy.

The Rogue Nation: we may have found our happy place!

Our first night ended fireside, roasting marshmallows and making s'mores – just like kids again! The wind whipped up even more, forcing us to extinguish the fire, but not before sending marshmallow across my cheek and into my hair. Still, it was the perfect start to our coastal adventure.

Until tomorrow…  

CHEERS!

Grab a seat, grab a marshmallow. The fire's roaring and the view is unbeatable. This is what coastal evenings are all about.

Michelle Eidam is a freelance writer with a thirst for adventure – exploring mountains, trails, breweries, and everything in between.