Lincoln City, Oregon

Lincoln City, Oregon has been one of the most popular family destinations along the central Oregon coast for years. People come in droves to play on the beaches, fish in nearby Devil's Lake, and shop in the outlets and galleries that are around every corner. You can also try your luck at one of the most popular gaming casinos in the northwest. A mild climate makes Lincoln City a great choice for a year-round vacation destination. A day along the coast can include hiking, beachcombing, kayaking, canoeing, whale watching, surfing, sun bathing, fishing, golf, or taking a drive and enjoying the amazing scenery.

If you are looking for a place to plop down a towel and work on your tan, Lincoln City will not disappoint. The area is blessed with over 7½ miles of beaches, some wide expanses of sand, others nestled in coves and surrounded by high cliffs. Lincoln City is known by the moniker "Kite Capital of the World" due to the prevailing winds that encircle the area. The beaches are popular spots for testing your kite flying skills. When the high tides recede, remnants are left in the form of tidal pools that hold starfish, sea anemone, and other smallish sea creatures. "Tide pooling" for these creatures is another popular activity. When the sea sends swells crashing on the shore, surfers come out of the woodwork to ride the waves. Swimming is only for the very hearty and accomplished swimmer, as the water is very cold, and caution needs to be the watchword.

More fun can be found in and around nearby Devil's Lake. The warmer water makes the lake a perfect place for an afternoon summer dip. Windsurfers who don't want to tackle the heavy ocean chop, but still want to feel the thrill of the wind, flock to the lake. Anglers toss in a line looking for yellow perch, crappie, bluegill, catfish, trout, and bass. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, aqua bikes, and various motorboats can all be rented from various places on the lake. Mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts can head out on the trail that circles the lake. Be sure to dip a toe into the D River, the world's smallest, that takes a mere 120 feet to flow into the Pacific from its source at Devil's Lake.

For those who appreciate a good wager, the Chinook Winds Casino is waiting with enough gaming tables to satisfy every taste. Run by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, this massive facility is fun for the entire family. Gaming buffs can choose from slot machines, blackjack, poker, keno craps, roulette, Pai-Gow Poker and even Bingo. Kids will enjoy the arcade with over 90 games, a movie theatre, and a Nintendo area. If your luck runs dry, you can take in a show by one of the famous acts that frequent the casino. Bill Cosby, B.B. King, and Loretta Lynn are just a few of the acts that have performed here.

Lincoln City has everything one could ask for in a coastal Oregon vacation destination. Plan your trip in the spring or fall to take advantage of the annual gray whale migration. The pods can be seen from shore or from a boat. Take some time and visit the Connie Hansen Gardens, where you can see an excellent collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, Japanese and Siberian iris and geraniums. Shoppers looking for a bargain will want to check out the Factory Stores at Lincoln City, which feature over 60 brand name manufacturer and designer outlet stores. Golfers can tee it up at Salishan Golf Links, a Scottish inspired links course with excellent views of the sea. Whether you are looking for outdoor fun or cultural attractions, Lincoln City has everything you need for an Oregon vacation.

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