Day 26: Shopping, Sand, and a Softer Landing at Salishan

I was relieved to check out of the dreadful Newport motel. The room had hard, clean floors at least, but it still wasn’t a place I wanted to linger. That morning slipped away while I finished some last-minute shopping on REI racing the clock before their Labor Day sale ended. By the time I clicked “checkout,” I was nearly late myself—bags packed, Max barely squeezed in for his morning walk, and checkout at 11 a.m. looming.

Heading north before going south felt counterintuitive, but my reservation at the Salishan Lodge was calling. Two nights of comfort sounded like luxury after rough stays. “Lodge” always conjures thoughts of summer camp, but this was different—more of a vintage resort, opened in the 1960s, complete with tennis courts, a golf course, spa, and restaurants.

Since check-in wasn’t until 4 p.m., I stopped at the Lincoln City Outlets. Retracing my route along the coastline didn’t feel like backtracking at all—the views were just as beautiful the second time. At the outlets, I picked up a pair of North Face hiking boots —sturdy, waterproof, and light enough for everyday walking. I know they’ll serve me well on muddy Oregon trails and in the forests still ahead. At Eddie Bauer, I found a lightweight warm-weather jacket, something versatile enough to layer for coastal winds or wear on its own in drier climates. Nike didn’t have anything for me this round, though I’m still glad for the shoes I snagged at their Seaside store earlier in the trip.

Shopping ran later than I expected, and by three o’clock I was hungry. I slipped into a beachside café for a bowl of clam chowder and half a dozen oysters. Dogs weren’t allowed, so I kept it quick—the waitress was understanding, bringing the food out swiftly so Max wouldn’t be waiting long.

By late afternoon, we finally reached the Lodge. It felt like stepping into another world—serene lobby, warm décor, even a “Doggy Happy Hour” where Max was served bone broth in his own dish. Our room was on the top floor, overlooking the bay. Though the sky stayed overcast, the room itself was a gift: oak-plank floors, a spacious bathroom, and a cozy sofa where Max immediately stretched out, content.

Before dinner, we explored the grounds. A quiet path led to the beach, where a scramble down some rocks brought us to the sand. My shoes filled quickly—I wished I had packed proper trail sandals for moments like this. Still, the walk was worth it.

Dinner was simple but comforting—wood-fired Margherita pizza, dessert, and an Italian soda from the Marketplace across the street. Back in the room, full and drowsy, I showered and drifted into sleep, grateful for a day that gave me both comfort and renewal.