Photo top Richard Bacon, bottom Dylan VanWeelden EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 17 SURF, PADDLE AND PLAY From catching waves in the open ocean to paddling calm waters amongst the trees, you’ll find aquatic delights of all kinds around Lincoln City. Surfers will discover breaks along the shoreline, with conditions from approachable to challenging. These coastal waters are best for intermediate and advanced riders ready for powerful waves and chilly waters. Need gear or guidance? Lincoln City Surf Shop, Safari Town Surf Shop, and ZuhG Life Surf Shop offer rentals, lessons and more. PEEK INTO TIDE POOLS When the tide slips out, Lincoln City’s rocky outcroppings transform into natural aquariums brimming with life. Discover sea stars, anemones and other marine creatures in shallow tide pools revealed at low tide along the coast. Bountiful spots to explore include just north of Roads End State Recreation Site, the Northwest 15th Street beach access, and the shoreline in front of the Inn at Spanish Head. Be sure to check a tide table (available at the Explore Lincoln City Welcome Center and local businesses) to plan your adventure at low tide. Step carefully, admire the wildlife without touching, and stay alert for sneaker waves — both for your safety and to protect these delicate habitats. Kayakers can set out from Josephine Young Memorial Park in Siletz Bay for close-up views of the Four Brothers rock formation. Devils Lake, protected from Lincoln City’s winds, offers a few boat ramps to sail the serene lake. North of town, paddlers launch from Knight Park into the Salmon River Estuary, to share the Cascade Head Biosphere Region with seals, salmon, elk, eagles and other playful wildlife. Kayak tours and rentals are available from Safari Town Surf Shop. LOCAL SPOTLIGHT JOSH HAVELIND, BIOSPHERE BEACH AMBASSADOR Josh Havelind first fell in love with Lincoln City while kayaking the Salmon River estuary. “Being on the water gave me a frontrow view of the Cascade Head Biosphere — a place where oldgrowth forests, coastal headlands, productive rivers and the Pacific Ocean all meet,” he said. For visitors, Havelind suggests letting the tides, seasons and weather guide your trip. On calm summer days, paddle the Salmon River estuary at high tide. When the tide goes out, explore tidepools teeming with sea stars, crabs and anemones. On rainy fall or winter days, hike the Cascade Head Trail to see old-growth forests, rare meadows and dramatic waves crashing below. Havelind reminds travelers that the biosphere isn’t just the wild places. “Exploring local shops and galleries, enjoying local seafood or joining community events is just as much a part of the experience,” he said.
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