Chasing Sunsets & Waterfalls: Our Anniversary Getaway in Lincoln City, Oregon

There’s something special about celebrating an anniversary somewhere the ocean meets the sky. A few years ago, we escaped to Lincoln City, a charming coastal town known for its sweeping beaches, vibrant art scene, and laid-back Pacific Northwest energy. Between beach walks, unforgettable sunsets, hands-on glass blowing, and a hike to Drift Creek Falls, it turned into one of those trips we’ll talk about for years.

Why Lincoln City Is Perfect for an Anniversary Trip?

Lincoln City offers the kind of romance that doesn’t need to try too hard. It’s raw coastline, salty air, crashing waves, cozy restaurants, and endless views. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or both, this little stretch of the Oregon coast delivers.

Founded in 1965, Lincoln City was formed by merging several smaller communities: Delake, Nelscott, Taft, Cutler City, and Oceanlake. Today, each district still carries its own personality, giving the city a blend of history and coastal charm.

Beach Days & Sunset Nights

One of our favorite parts of the trip was simply spending time on the beaches. Lincoln City has seven miles of public shoreline, so there’s no shortage of space to wander hand in hand, watch surfers battle the waves, or sit quietly and listen to the ocean.

Every evening felt like a gift. The sunsets here are unreal—layers of orange, pink, gold, and violet stretching across the Pacific. Watching the sun drop below the horizon with the person you love beside you is hard to top.

Trying Glass Blowing Together

We wanted to do something memorable, so we booked a glass blowing session—one of the most unique experiences of the trip. Lincoln City has a strong connection to glass art, and creating something with our own hands made the anniversary even more meaningful.

There’s something fun about stepping outside your comfort zone together, learning a new skill, and ending up with a handmade keepsake to bring home.

Hiking to Drift Creek Falls

For our adventure day, we headed inland to Drift Creek Falls Trail, one of the most rewarding hikes on the coast.

Hike Stats:

Trail Name: Drift Creek Falls Trail #1378

Distance: 3 miles round trip

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Elevation Gain: Approximately 500 feet

Trail Type: Out-and-back

Time Needed: 1.5 to 2.5 hours

Best Season: Spring through Fall (beautiful year-round depending on weather)

The trail winds through lush coastal forest filled with moss-covered trees, ferns, and the earthy scent of the Pacific Northwest. The star of the hike is the suspension bridge stretching 240 feet across the canyon and standing about 100 feet above Drift Creek.

Crossing the bridge gives you a perfect view of the 66-foot waterfall pouring into the ravine below. Equal parts thrilling and beautiful.

Trail History

The original bridge was built in the 1990s, but severe storms damaged access routes and infrastructure over the years. The trail and bridge were later restored, reopening so visitors could once again enjoy one of the Oregon Coast’s most iconic forest hikes.

The area is managed within the United States Forest Service and remains a favorite destination for locals and travelers alike.

Why This Trip Meant So Much

Sometimes the best anniversary trips aren’t about extravagant plans—they’re about shared moments. Walking the beach. Laughing through a new experience. Standing on a suspension bridge in the middle of the forest. Watching another sunset together.

Lincoln City gave us all of that and more.

If you’re looking for a romantic coastal getaway with a little adventure mixed in, Lincoln City belongs on your list.