We enjoyed spectacular and ever-changing viewpoints of the Oregon coast as we traveled south down scenic Route 101. we stopped at Yaquina Head Lighthouse, which was built in August of 1873 and stands at 93 feet tall on the beautifully rocky western headland. At the Oregon Coast Aquarium, we were surrounded by sharks, rockfish and rays as we walked through acrylic tunnels surrounded by sea water. Our hotel at Driftwood Shores in Florence provide ocean views and beautiful beach sunsets. We explored downtown Florence and hiked to the summit of cape Perpetua, 800 feet above sea level. 
What a thrill it was to soar up the side of giant sand dunes in a dune buggy! The Oregon Dunes is the largest expanse of coastal dunes in north America. We stopped at the top of of one of the highest dunes in America 600 feet high!
The next adventure was a jet boat ride up the Rogue River. The captain navigated shallow waters and rapids as we rode up this gorgeous river valley to a lunch stop in the tiny town of Agness, home to 75 people. Our river pilot enjoyed spinning the jet boat which resulted in some unnerving fear of flying out of the boat and soaking waves. We enjoyed watching cormorants, seals, herons and a river otter on our journey.
Here some images from our travels. For best viewing, Click on first photo below to enlarge, then click right arrow to scroll through the gallery.
