An Oregon Honeymoon for Romantics and Nature Lovers Alike
On an Oregon honeymoon, Pacific Ocean views, misty forests and snow-capped peaks are just a few of the things that make it an enchanting US honeymoon destination.
An Oregon honeymoon can be an affordable and adventurous getaway for newlyweds to begin their lives together. Whether you're walking along the coast in Cannon Beach or snapping stunning pics of Multnomah Falls, this beautiful state offers something for everyone.
When it comes to planning your honeymoon in Oregon, let us be your guide. From the best months to visit to things to do, use our expert tips to plan your exciting itinerary.
Oregon Honeymoon Tips in this Article:
- Best Time to Honeymoon in Oregon
- Oregon Honeymoon Planning Tips
- Best Oregon Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts
- Oregon Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
- What to Pack for an Oregon Honeymoon
Best Time to Honeymoon in Oregon
The best time to visit for an Oregon honeymoon is from June through August, when the summer temps make it easy to partake in outdoor activities. The state is also known for getting a "second summer" in September and October. During this time, you could see some sunny days with mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s, and leaf peepers will love the state's stunning fall foliage.
Best weather: June to October.
Festival highlights: The Portland Rose Festival in early June celebrates with parades, fireworks and events. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland runs from February to October and features a range of plays theater lovers won't want to miss. For foodies, the Feast Portland in September offers the chance to indulge in the best of local and international cuisines.
Oregon Honeymoon Planning Tips
Oregon is an easy trip for many West Coasters. A flight from San Francisco takes less than two hours. It's a longer trek for people on the East Coast—leave eight hours for a flight from New York City and seven hours for one from Atlanta.
Oregon offers honeymooners a chance to see the Pacific Ocean in a quieter setting. You won't get the same party scene you'd find in Los Angeles or Puerto Vallarta, but nature-loving couples will adore the endless outdoor activity options. Hike the Cascade Mountains, take in Multnomah Falls, discover state parks and book a kayaking adventure.
Entry requirements: You won't need a passport, but be sure to bring ID.
Language: English.
Location: Oregon is located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, bordered by Washington to the north, California to the south, Nevada to the southeast, and Idaho to the east. The Pacific Ocean lies to the west.
Currency: USD.
Flight time to Destination: From New York City to Portland, direct flights are approximately 6 hours.
Getting around: Oregon can be navigated via rental car, which offers flexibility to explore both urban centers and remote natural areas. Public transportation options like buses and light rail are available in larger cities like Portland. Biking is also popular in many urban areas.
Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for Oregon honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.
Best Oregon Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts
Oregon boasts a range of romantic honeymoon accommodations to suit any taste, from luxurious suites in Portland to quaint bed and breakfasts in the Willamette Valley. Here are some of our top picks.
Wheeler on the Bay Lodge
Wheeler on the Bay Lodge is an off-the-beaten-path, budget-friendly hotel that's ideal for honeymooners who want to escape the hustle-and-bustle of Oregon's touristy coastal cities. Its special honeymoon suite is the most secluded on the property. Newlyweds can sink into a cozy king-size bed or soak in a jetted tub that easily fits two. The large private balcony includes views of Nehalem Bay, the mountains and the sunset.
5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews
Stephanie Inn
Stephanie Inn is a boutique hotel in Cannon Beach hailed as one of the area's best honeymoon resorts. Its honeymoon package includes a bubble bath for your jacuzzi, sparkling wine or cider, and roses. Guest rooms have fireplaces, oceanfront views and balconies.
5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews
Columbia Gorge Hotel
Located in Hood River, Columbia Gorge Hotel is ideal for adventurous couples who want to retreat to cozy accommodations each night. Built in 1904, the hotel is both homey and luxurious. Some rooms have fireplaces and river views, and the beautifully manicured lawn is in full bloom each spring. After a day of hiking, tack on the couples room spa treatment for some added TLC. You can indulge in a side-by-side massage and foot soak.
4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews
Hallmark Resort Cannon Beach
Hallmark Resort is an oceanfront paradise in Cannon Beach. The spa and sauna give newlyweds a chance to relax and unwind, while the easy access to Haystack Rock and complimentary bike rentals leave opportunities for exploration. Several romantic packages are available, and many include spa treatments, roses, macarons, sparkling beverages and even s'mores.
4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews
Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland
This historic boutique hotel in downtown Portland is trendy and chic. At the Kimpton Hotel, each room is uniquely decorated, and some have private balconies and whirlpool tubs. There's also a game lounge with shuffleboard.
4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews
Pro tip: For even more Oregon honeymoon accommodations, consider staying at a romantic Airbnb or VRBO.
Oregon Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
A honeymoon in this Pacific Northwest state is truly a romantic getaway. You'll find mountains, oceans, rivers and cityscapes, all of which exude a different type of beauty.
Visit Portland
A trip to Oregon wouldn't be complete without a stop in Portland. You'll be able to catch views of the mountains (including Mount Hood) and the water in Oregon's largest city. You can take a day trip to Mount Hood and nearby Multnomah Falls, but it's also worth staying in the city itself. More than a concrete jungle, Portland is home to gorgeous spots like the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden. The sprawling Washington Park is perfect for an afternoon stroll or half-day excursion.
Head to the Coast
A small oceanfront city along the Oregon coast, Cannon Beach is known for its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack, stands out along the shoreline. You can walk up to it during low tide, and you may even run into a Tufted Puffin if you're exploring the area in the spring or summer. For a peaceful picnic on the coast, check out Cannon Beach's Ecola State Park.
Lincoln City is another coastal spot worth visiting. Each summer, a kite festival draws thousands to the city's shores. Plus, many local glass blowers, like those at Alderhouse, give an up-close look at their process. There are also plenty of beaches to explore, including Taft Bay, Roads End State Recreation Site and Siletz Bay Park. Depoe Bay, where every view is a waterfront view, is just 20 minutes away.
Newport is another good pit stop on the coast, as it's a hub for marine life and seafaring adventures. See everything from sea otters to sharks at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area includes the chance to catch a glimpse of the state's tallest lighthouse, as well as tide pools with hundreds of species of marine animals.
Grab a Bottle of Pinot
Wine-loving newlyweds will want to put The Willamette Valley on their itinerary. The valley's climate—protected from the summer sun—is ideal for growing Pinot Noir grapes. Chauffeured wine tours can ensure you get the most out of your trip. The following day, take it easy by relaxing in one of the area's hot springs.
Take a Day Trip to Astoria
A trip to Astoria feels like walking through the pages of a fairy tale. The port city, where 1990s tear-jerker Free Willy was filmed, sits along the Columbia River, and is a hop, skip and jump away from the Pacific Ocean. It's a fishing village with a touch of Victorian-era glamor. Climb the Astoria Column, a 125-foot structure atop Coxcomb Hill, for panoramic views of the river and city below.
Hike Crater Lake
Outdoorsy couples will want to book a trip to Bend, a small but not-to-be-missed city on the Deschutes River that's a short drive away from Crater Lake National Park. Crater Lake's beautiful blue waters run deep—literally. It's the deepest lake in the nation.
After your strenuous hike, learn about the buzz-worthy history and the local beer scene all in one adventure during a sights and brewery tour.
Get a Dose of Theater
Each year, theater enthusiasts descend on the town of Ashland for the annual Shakespeare Festival, which typically runs from February to October. Despite the name, the festival showcases non-Shakespearean classic and contemporary performances. Newlyweds can also check out the area's Oregon Cabaret Theatre.
Pro tip: Add Oregon honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so that loved ones can give you one of these memorable couples activities. Make sure to post honeymoon pictures to your wedding website so your guests can see.
What to Pack for an Oregon Honeymoon
You'll want to have clothes for all the different adventures you'll be having in your honeymoon luggage. Bring a bathing suit for dips in hotel pools. (Depending on the weather, you may want to take a swim in the Pacific, too.) Sunscreen is also a must.
Oregon weather can go from hot to cold in a New York minute. Make sure your packing checklist includes layers like cardigans, sweatshirts and lightweight shirts so you're always comfortable. Hiking boots, pants and a backpack will come in handy during adventures in the mountains and state parks. And a raincoat is crucial in this Pacific Northwest state.
Brittany Barber contributed to this article.