Recreation at Portland lakes and the coast (Gresham, Astoria: school, live in)

[nickyt99]

I grew up in BC, and now live in LA, but I'm moving to Portland. I'm worried I might miss the beach! I'm wondering how long it really takes to drive to the coast from Portland, and how that beach area is. Are there bathrooms and places to eat? Is it decent with kids, or is there a better area a little more north or south? Coming from BC I'm used to the Pacific Northwest beach feel.

How about lakes or rivers in and around Portland? Any good areas to go with the family? Any sandy areas?

Thanks!

[sofia76]

From Portland, it will take 90 minutes without a ton of traffic to get to an upper central beach town like Cannon Beach or Lincoln City. The beach areas most people go to are usually situated next to small towns or as part of State Parks, so you'll find restrooms/toilets in most places, and restaurants in the nearby towns.

The beaches are very family friendly in my opinion - up in Astoria, there are a ton of kids, and of course, in Seaside. Further south, when you get to the dunes, you will see a billion children. The beaches in the areas near popular attractions (like the Sea Lion Caves and the Aquarium) will be more kid friendly - at least on weekends and when school is out. The Oregon beaches are great. There is good variety - you can find secluded, wooded beaches, and open, sandy, populated beaches. It really just depends on what you want and how far you're willing to drive.

[sofia76]

Oh, and in Portland I like Blue Lake Park in Gresham very much. Very family oriented. They have creaky thousand year old paddle boats and play equipment, lots of picnic area, events, etc.

[philwithbeard]

Nicky T

Be aware the water at the Pacific Ocean is cold for most of the year. The beaches are there, but warm water is not. But if your from B.C., you know this already.

Phil

[BirdInHand]

Hagg Lake in western Washington County is alot of fun. The fishing is great, there is a swimming area and boat dock. There are many places to go and have a private party or just some quiet time. It is very wooded and there is alot of wildlife.

[nickyt99]

Thanks everyone!