The Pacific Northwest coast is lined with welcoming towns that play host to a long weekend’s worth of offerings. Yachats, a tiny dot on the central Oregon coast, is such a town and overachieves despite its moderate population of about 1,000 full-time locals.
The Overleaf Lodge & Spa is set right on the craggy coastline on the north end of town. It overlooks a shoreline trail that runs north toward some great tide-pooling territory and south toward Yachats proper.
Such proximity to the Pacific means soothing ocean sounds in the majority of the Overleaf’s rooms. Overlooking the the ocean, the spa features soaking tubs along with full-body treatments and steam rooms, making it easy to relax and unwind. The lodge’s continental breakfast is also a favorite among guests, featuring house-baked egg souffles, yogurt, pancakes and more. It’s deservedly popular, so show up early if you want a couch seat in front of the lobby fireplace.
Eager to showcase the vibrant wine scene that exists inland, the Overleaf hosts weekend tastings. Last spring, the lodge focused on the southern Willamette Valley, bringing in labels like Brigadoon, High Pass, Bennett Vineyards and more for happy hour pours in the expansive lobby. The tasting experiences are a great opportunity to chat up a winemaker and whet your whistle before the dinner hour.
For the best fish and chips in town, make a visit to Luna Sea Fish House. Here, the fish does not hide behind a thick curtain of deep-fried batter. Instead, a light layer highlights the freshness of the fish. With an expanded patio and friendly service, it’s a must while in Yachats.
In need of a pick-me-up? Stroll over to Bread & Roses Bakery for some excellent coffee or any number of remarkable baked goods. The quiches and pastries are as delicious as they are eye-catching, and if the smell of fresh-baked goods doesn’t lure you in, the allure of the charming and petite building most certainly will.
Because Yachats is right on the edge of the massive Siuslaw National Forest, there’s endless opportunity for outdoor frolicking. Yachats Ocean Road State Park is just a stroll away, set across the main bridge in town along a scenic flat of sand at the mouth of the Yachats River. Push farther south to take in stunning Cape Perpetua and its most famous attraction, Thor’s Well. Hike up 800 feet in elevation for a endless panorama of the coast and a decent chance at a whale sighting, depending on the season.
The Oregon coast beer scene is admirable and Yachats Brewing is a big part of that. The tasting room and restaurant is located in a farm store that once served as the town’s bank. It’s a cozy paradise of reclaimed wood and rustic cabinetry. Enjoy one of the label’s many outstanding fruit beers while you play board games and munch on some of the restaurant’s elevated pub grub. The elk sausage pizza is noteworthy, as is the Buckle American Wild Ale and the super refreshing Watermelon Sour. For something more along the lines of fine dining, check out Ona Restaurant. Its globally-inspired menu features a healthy happy hour and plenty of local seafood. Better still, save yourself for The Bay House as you drive back to Portland. The Lincoln City restaurant is a modern classic, housed in a welcoming abode-like structure built in 1937. It’s a perennial award-winner with tremendous hospitality, an amazing sunset view and an inspired menu.
