Lincoln City Winter Activities: Ways to Enjoy Cooler Temps
Lincoln City, Oregon, features some of the best beaches in central Oregon. While many travelers visit the area during summertime, the colder seasons present different activities that help guests plan memorable trips. If heading to the coast in the off-season, here are some Lincoln City winter activities.
Fun Lincoln City Winter Activities to Try During the Off-season
Book a Whale-watching Trip
During December and January, visitors enjoy winter whale migration seasons in Oregon. This time of year brings gray whales that move from the south to the Arctic Sea. The migration’s peak usually occurs between Christmas and New Year’s where guests may see up to 30 whales along the coast every hour.
Several charter companies near Lincoln City host guided whale-watching trips. Each offer their own experience, which may also offer fishing, sightseeing and local charm. A few popular options include Tradewinds Charters, Whale’s Tail Charters and Whale Research EcoExcursions – all in Depoe Bay.
Design a Work of Art
At Lincoln City Glass Center, guests can create their own glass masterpieces. Select from paperweights, hearts, waves, votives and floats. Then watch from a safe distance as professional glass blowers bring the creation to light.
Those who prefer to shop also have options. Shop the Jennifer Sears Glass Art Studio inside the center. Or visit area art galleries such as Alder House Glass, Flanigan’s Glass Gallery and Volta Glass Gallery. If it’s not too cold outside, hunt for glass during annual Finder’s Keepers events when they place glass floats along the shore. Before visiting, check ahead to get specific dates and times.
Take a Cooking Class
Wintertime provides the perfect opportunity to heat things up in the kitchen. Lincoln City Culinary Center hosts private events, public classes and live demonstrations by award-winning chefs. Not only does the center encourage guests to learn new recipes, but it showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest food scene.
Live demonstrations accommodate up to 24 people, while hands-on classes seat from eight to 12 attendees. Seating depends on the event and registration. Guests should also adhere to dress codes and register at the culinary center before visiting.
Enjoy the Nightlife Scene
Don’t want to cook? That’s okay because Lincoln City has a vibrant food and nightlife scene that showcases the area’s distinct flair. Many area restaurants offer a spin on traditional cuisine. However, the main star is seafood. From hearty and warm chowder to raw oysters and ocean-to-plate options, it’s not difficult to find something to eat.
Raved about restaurants in Lincoln City include Kyllo’s Seafood and Grill, The Wild Flower Grill, Thai Bay Restaurant and Dory Cover Restaurant. In addition, the city has international options such as Asian, Southwest, Mexican and Italian, to name a few.
Another place to enjoy the area’s nightlife scene is Chinook Winds Casino Resort. The resort sits directly on the beach and provides a place to play and unwind. At the casino, guests find their favorite table games, slots, sports wagering and bingo. Live entertainment features talented musicians and comedians. Visitors looking for other things to do at Chinook have access to a golf course, kids play area, family-friendly arcade and fitness center.
Stay Home and Storm Watch
One of the best Lincoln City winter activities is a easy as staying home. That’s right. Storm-watching from home in the winter has become a popular pastime in Oregon.
From December through February, large ocean waves roll in from Japan crashing against Oregon’s Coast. When storms reach their peak, visitors may witness winds up to 87 nautical miles per hour and waves 30 feet or higher.
An ideal place to storm-watch is inside a private vacation home in Lincoln City. Many homes sit along the coast, offering a front-row seat to nature in action. Once everything calms down, walk to the beach and search for shells. Remember to stay safe and only head out after the storm has passed through the coast.
Need more ideas? Visitors also enjoy taking a road-trip to see the top Oregon waterfalls.