The wide swath of soft sand known as Cannon Beach is a perfect place for a family visit to the shore. If your family doesn't include a dog you may want to borrow one to remind you of how much fun a good romp can be. Dogs under voice control are permitted off leash on the beach, and you'll find many happy Rovers running at the surf's edge.

Under the blue sky that shelters our little bend in the Willamette, sits the RiverPlace Esplanade that overlooks the Hawthorn bridge and the RiverPlace Marina. The RiverPlace Esplanade is just now hitting its stride, and already offers some of the city's most elegant dining, casual café hangouts, wine bars and ice cream shops.

About 200 miles southeast from Portland is the dream getaway of any fisherman or fisherwoman. If you follow the North Umpqua River through its twists and turns of placid pools, juxtaposed with sections of rapid currents, you will enter into 31 miles of fly-fishing only territory. You will also find an inn that embodies the true spirit of fishing from its rich history to its nightly fisherman's dinner. Gather your poles and tackle box for a getaway filled with fine food, famous fishing spots and even a massage.