Astoria and Cannon Beach, Oregon

First stop in Oregon, is Astoria! Such a cute little town. We arrive on a sunny day, and explore the beach of Fort Stevens State Park, where we are car camping. Knox loves the beach, and so do I. The calm ocean waves greet us, and I realize that this is the vision I have had of this trip for many months. When I began to have the faintest dream of this trip, it was of Knox and me walking along a stretch of Pacific Ocean beach. And here we are.

Did you know it is legal to drive on the beach in Oregon? The state park has a car entrance, and of course I have to try it! I get nervous after driving onto the sand, so it was a quick jaunt, but I got a few pictures.

I am glad to be camping again, and take a quick video while setting up, to show you all how I created privacy with window coverings!

I keep the covers stored easily by sliding them under the foam mattress.

It is getting dark quite early, an aspect of car camping I did not anticipate. So I spend the evenings cozy in the car, journaling and reading. How does Knox spend the time? Here is a video of him with his favorite squeaky toy. I am so thankful I packed it at the last minute!

The following morning is rainy, and very blustery. And so cold. I can't resist the beach, and for about 30 seconds of checking it out in driving rain, I get chilled to the bone, and Knox and I are both sloppy with wet sand. I'm not sure the car will ever recover.

With the heat on full blast, we head south to Cannon Beach! I was here a few years ago on a truly wonderful Ladies Trip, which was my one and only visit to Oregon. I am thrilled to be back, and because of the relentless wind and rain, pivot from car camping to a hotel. Best decision. Knox and I settle in with a view of The Haystack. When we aren't outside getting wet/cold while exploring the beach and tide pools, we are cozy inside our room. After 2 nights here, I get an amazing massage (first since pre-pandemic) and hydrotherapy shower, then head to Portland!