Just as there are seven miles of this linear city to see, there are seven miles of splendid sandy beach to investigate. Comb the beach for treasures, fly kites, explore tide pools and experience the waves lapping at your toes. Shoppers will enjoy the large factory outlet mall with over 60 stores, in addition to small boutiques, antique stores and art galleries. You can make your own souvenir at a glassblowing studio or take a stroll through a splendid garden. Park at the D River Wayside and see the world's shortest river as it runs a whole 120 feet from Devil's Lake to the sea. The D River Wayside is also the site of two of Oregon's largest kite festivals in spring and fall. On the north end of Lincoln City, Chinook Winds Casino Resort features 24-hour gaming, five restaurants, lodging, world-class entertainment year round and an 18-hole golf course. To the south, two nearby rivers, the Salmon and Siletz, offer fishing and wildlife viewing. At the south end of Siletz Bay is Gleneden Beach, home to the Shops at Salishan and the Salishan Golf Resort.

Just a few minutes outside of Lincoln City are some other interesting points of exploration. Only six miles south is the quaint oceanfront town of Depoe Bay, famous for the world's smallest natural harbor as well as Oregon State Parks' Whale Watching Center. Four more miles south is Otter Rock and Devil's Punch Bowl, a natural formation where you can watch thundering waves surge into a giant cauldron.

There are several waysides and viewpoints perfect for picnicking, wildlife viewing and photography as well as beach access. South of Lincoln City, stop at Gleneden Beach State Recreation Site for a picnic; Fogarty Creek State Park, where you take a trail under the highway to the beach and dramatic rock formations; Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint, a good place to watch for whales and, at low tide, to see the boiler from a 1910 shipwreck; Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint; and Cape Foulweather for great panoramic views.

Lincoln City Area Attractions

Chinook Winds Casino Resort
For lively entertainment, 24-hour gaming, golf and dining, this is the place.1777 NW 44th St, Lincoln City (541) 996-5825 or (888) 244-6665

Tanger Outlets
Factory outlet shopping featuring more than 60 stores.1500 SE East Devils Lake Rd, Lincoln City (541) 996-5000

Jennifer L. Sears Glass Art Studio
In just a few minutes you can learn to blow your own glass float, make a paperweight or bowl to take home. 4821 SW Highway 101, Lincoln City (541) 996-2569

Lincoln City Culinary Center
Learn to cook like a pro and eat the meal you make. 801 SW Hwy 101, 4th Floor North, Lincoln City (541) 557-1125

Hiking Cascade Head
There are many great hikes in and around Lincoln City, and one of the most stunning is the Cascade Head National Scenic and Research Area. For a complete guide to hiking trails, call (888) 628-2101.

Taft Waterfront Park
Fishing and crabbing off the dock, with easy access to beach and bay. SW 51st and Highway 101, Lincoln City (541) 994-2131

Connie Hansen Garden
A lovely garden known primarily for its irises and 300 varieties of rhododendrons. There are many more species, and something is in bloom all year round in this one-acre plot.
1931 NW 33rd St, Lincoln City (541) 994-6338

Oregon State Park
Whale Watching Center
State Park rangers can assist in spotting migratory and resident Gray Whales. Exhibits and videos on whale behavior. Highway 101, Depoe Bay (541) 765-3304.