An Oregon Honeymoon Is Perfect for Romantics and Nature Lovers Alike

Pacific Ocean views, misty forests and snow-capped peaks are just a few of the things that make Oregon an enchanting honeymoon destination.

An Oregon honeymoon can be an affordable and adventurous way 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. Take a look.

Is Oregon Good for a Honeymoon?

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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.

Pros of an Oregon Honeymoon

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 newlyweds will adore the endless outdoor activity options. Hike the Cascade Mountains, take in Multnomah Falls, discover state parks and book a kayaking adventure.

Cons of an Oregon Honeymoon

Your wedding photographer may have told you this: Gorgeous gray skies actually make for beautiful photos. If you don't mind a little rain here and there, you'll be fine in Oregon. But if you prefer sunny conditions, you may want to look elsewhere—cities like Portland and Astoria get more than 200 cloudy days per year. Traffic can also be heavy, and you'll need to sit in it to reach many attractions.

The Best Times of Year to Go on an Oregon Honeymoon for Good Weather

Oregon is great 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.

Things to Do During an Oregon Honeymoon

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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 glamour. 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.

Best Hotels and Resorts in Oregon for a Honeymoon

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Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront

Beautiful vistas and easy access to the city's most popular attractions make Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront a no-brainer for honeymooners. It's near the Oregon Zoo, The Lan Su Chinese Garden and several breweries. The polished rooms include comfy beds and both city and waterfront views.

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.

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.

Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa

Located in Hood River, Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa 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.

Hallmark Resort & Spa

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.

Sunriver Resort

Sunriver Resort is an unforgettable place to stay, particularly for golfers. Guests at the 3,300-acre, 245-room resort have access to four golf courses, a spa and rooms with upgraded amenities like private hot tubs. The resort also has 275 vacation rentals, including fully equipped condos.

Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland

This historic boutique hotel in downtown Portland is trendy and chic. Each room is uniquely decorated, and some have private balconies and whirlpool tubs. There's also a game lounge with shuffleboard.

What to Pack for an Oregon Honeymoon

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You'll want to have clothes for all the different adventures you'll be having during your getaway. 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. Bring 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.