How to enjoy the last days of Portland summer
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There's nothing else quite like Oregon summer. Photo: Meira Gebel/Axios
If you use Labor Day — and not the outside temperature — as your barometer for the end of summer, that means there are only a few days left.
Why it matters: Portland summers are a reminder of why we live here and help offset the constant grey and wet in the months ahead. It's worth savoring the last stretch.
Here are a few things on our to-do list before fall hits.
Hit up the beach
Oregon's coastal beach towns are each quirky in their own way — plus they're reliably 20-ish degrees cooler than the city on hot days.
- For a low-key day escape, check out the state's shortest lighthouse on Cape Meares, then head to Roseanna's Cafe for crab cakes and marionberry cobbler with stellar ocean views.
- Or join the crowds at Cannon Beach and explore the plethora of art galleries, restaurants and tide pools.
Get in the water
River swimming is at its peak right now. Whether you're into paddleboarding, cliff jumping or skinny dipping, there's a place for you.
- Take the plunge off 20-foot rocks at High Rocks Park with other adrenaline junkies, float down the windy Sandy River at Oxbow, or head to Cottonwood Beach for an evening picnic and swim.
Hike under the canopy
Shady hikes are a great way to avoid the hot sun and still get active. Try the Warrior Rock Lighthouse trail on Sauvie Island (enveloped with cottonwood and ash trees), the Keil Loop in Forest Park or any of the wetland walks in Tyron Creek.
Find a patio
If you're not feeling outdoorsy, but want to take in some views, there's a deck for that.
- Enjoy a monster fish-n-chip sandwich on the Hayden Island marina at newly-opened Pal's, take in dinner and a show at Revolution Hall's Roof Deck, or get bougie at the popular Blazers player hangout, Departure.
- You can also finally cross the Columbia to experience the buzz around Vancouver's waterfront.