Location: Hwy 101 about 80 miles south of Newport. Population: 8500. Visitor Information: Florence Area Chamber of Commerce; Phone: (541) 997-3128; Website: www.florencechamber.com.
Florence has 20 miles of coastline perfect for kayaking, kite and board surfing and ocean fishing. Anglers can also try their luck on the Siuslaw River and the area's 17 lakes. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area contains the largest coastal sand dunes in North America, rising as high as 500 feet for sand boarding and ATV riding. Ride horses along the beach, hike through old growth forests, visit Sea Lion Caves and take a ride in a bi-plane or helicopter to see all of Florence, including Heceta Head Lighthouse on a panoramic bluff. Visit Historic Old Town's shops and enjoy casual or fine dining along the river.
