Gold Beach (Bend, North Bend, Florence: skatepark, wedding, dangerous)

[DianaJ]

Hi,
I'm trying to plan the next segment of our Oregon Vacation! From Florence to Gold Beach, what is the driving distance?

Thank you,
Diana

[nanannie]

Mapquest is excellent.

[DianaJ]

Ok, Thank you.

[nanannie]

Seriously, and keep in mind the extra time for curves, fog, slow trucks etc. No matter the mileage from your point 'A' where you will be in Gold Beach, to where ever your destination is in Florence, the fog alone has really added to our time driving. And often on sunny days, we were slowed down because the views are so glorious. Have a great trip.

[DianaJ]

Thank you. Can't wait to see with my own eyes!

[Sobefobik]

Be careful at Gold Beach. There are some VERY dangerous cliffs there. Ten-years ago my aunt died from falling off of one. If you're traveling with children, keep a watchful eye on them!

[bobmulk]

The drive is gorgeous; you won't forget it. Florence is a glorious community. Check out Old Town. I would say you're looking at a 2-3 hour drive.

[seashelly]

Along the 101 from Florence to Gold Beach, she's going to see a lot of green. It's not like the Central Coast where the ocean is right over your right shoulder. There's actually only about 3 places where you can see the ocean from the highway but then you do cross over some interesting historic bridges over bays and rivers. If you want to access the beaches, allow enough time in your schedule to drive about 3-6 miles to the West of the highway. It's definately worth the time. (Tell us what you want to see and we'll tell you where to stop -- our local secrets.)

[DianaJ]

Thank you everyone for the replies! We really just want to relax, hang out, take lots of pictures. We love the ocean, trees, bridges, barns..We do love shopping as well. The boys may want to check out a skate park, clothing store.

[tiffela74]

when is your trip? If its before Jan 1st, a must do is coming to the Shore Acres Light Show. Ohhh, boy but its worth it! Its the incredible Shore Acres all lit up w/holiday lights, many moving. To wander through these incredible displays while you can hear the ocean crashing behind you at certain points, its an unbelievable experience. We go every year (usually a few times!) and it never never gets old.
Of course,if you trip is during the summer, you should come see the gardens in bloom. Might even catch a wedding taking place. Thats always a treat.
FYI, Reedsport has a skatepark right on 101. Your boys might appriciate that!
also, keep an eye out in the water (along the river and the bay) for elk. Seeing the elk standing around is pretty cool, but when you catch em swimming, thats really something! We've seen them in the bay along Cape Arago, also off 101 right before the bridge going into North Bend, and in the Umpqua! Fun fun.