Make Florence, Oregon, the Highlight of Your Labor Day Weekend
Remember those back-to-school essays where the teacher asked, “How did you spend your summer vacation?” This year, help your kids—and yourself—have the best answer ever by wrapping up summer in Florence, Oregon, during Labor Day weekend!
There’s no better way to make lasting family memories than by spending the final days of summer in Oregon’s Coastal Playground. Doubt us? Check out these accolades from experts in the travel industry!
About a one-hour (or less) scenic drive from Eugene, Coos Bay, Newport, or Lincoln City, Florence offers an unforgettable mix of beachside fun, outdoor adventure, public art, shopping, and delicious dining—all without the crowds or price tags of bigger coastal vacation towns.
And those from Portland, Salem, Bend, Grants Pass, or Medford will find Florence to be worth the extra 45 minutes to an hour drive for an entirely different experience than their same-old coastal destination.
The Beach: Your Family's Canvas for Adventure
Labor Day weekend in Florence is perfect for family-friendly beach fun. With miles of wide-open shoreline and cool Pacific breezes, our beaches invite you to:
- Build towering sandcastles
- Fly vibrant kites above the beach and dunes
- Enjoy a classic picnic on the sand
- Explore a tide pool teaming with life
- Jump waves or skim board together
- Take romantic sunset strolls along the surf
- Craft the perfect s’more over your beach fire
It’s a refreshing, affordable, and memory-filled way to squeeze in one last summer story before school starts.
Dune it in Florence!
Sandboarding! The thrilling and affordable sport you didn’t realize you needed. See below.
Sand Rails and ATV Rentals—two incredibly memorable ways to see the dunes, the tree islands, the beach, and maybe even a bear, eagle, coyote, bobcat, or cougar off in the distance…or closer! Guided tours provide both an educational eco-tour element and thrill-a-minute rides that leave you feeling entirely safe and completely terrified.
Sandboarding: Florence’s Most Unforgettable Thrill
Discover something that will have your kids (and Instagram followers) talking for months! Try sandboarding!
Florence is known as the sandboarding capital of the world, and our soft, rolling dunes at Sand Master Park and Honeyman State Park are ideal for beginners and thrill seekers alike. It’s fun, budget-friendly, and one of those “bucket list” activities you’ll wish you’d tried sooner.
Rent a board, take a quick lesson, and zoom down the dunes with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. It’s safe, exciting, and sure to be the highlight of your best Labor Day weekend ever.
For those who prefer calmer waters, Siltcoos Lake and nearby estuaries offer fantastic kayaking opportunities. Bring your own or rent on-site and paddle through scenic water trails rich with wildlife. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Florence area.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Whether you bring your own horse or book a ride with C&M Stables, horseback riding on the beach is one of Florence’s most magical experiences. Imagine trotting along the shoreline with waves crashing beside you and seabirds flying overhead—a perfect way to make memories that last a lifetime. Baker Beach, due west of C&M Stables, is among the best horse beaches among the 363 miles of Oregon coastline.
Get Teed Off…With a View!
Florence is also home to two excellent golf courses:
Ocean Dunes Golf Links, is a challenging and scenic 18-hole course tucked among coastal pines and dunes
Sandpines Golf Links, is one of the top-ranked public courses in Oregon with panoramic views and a course design that golfers of all skill levels will love
You can play 18 with a golf cart for less than you’d pay a required caddy at more famous coastal courses! Both courses have meal, snack, and beverage offerings onsite. Bring your clubs and play a round—or two—on your long weekend getaway.
Historic Old Town Florence: Where Charm Meets Discovery
Strolling through Historic Old Town Florence is like stepping into a postcard. With boutique shops, art galleries, coffee shops, ice cream and candy stores, bookstores, and more, it’s the perfect place to pick up back-to-school surprises, handmade treasures, or souvenirs that remind you of your summer’s grand finale.
Old Town is also a food lover’s paradise. From world-famous clam and crab chowder and fresh-caught seafood to handcrafted pizza and gourmet burgers, you’ll find dining to satisfy every craving and budget. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, river views, and local charm you won’t find anywhere else.
More Outdoor Fun Awaits
If you're still looking to fill your weekend with active, memory-making fun, Florence always delivers:
Hike scenic trails like the Hobbit Trail or explore the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Speaking of trails, try our many quests, trails, and geocaching adventures.
Tour the iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse and learn the legends of the coast
Visit Sea Lion Caves, America’s largest sea cave and home to wild sea lions year-round
Camp, boat, or fish at Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park
Discover for yourself why Florence is your family-friendly basecamp for every kind of adventure.
Make One Last Summer Memory Before School Starts
Labor Day weekend is your final golden opportunity to bond as a family, play at the beach, explore new thrills, and enjoy Oregon’s beautiful coast. Best of all, Florence makes it easy—with affordable lodging, low-cost activities, and a relaxed coastal vibe that’s perfect for every age.
This Labor Day, give your kids (and yourself) an ending to summer they’ll never forget. Because “How I Spent My Summer Vacation” just got a whole lot better—with sunshine, sand, and smiles in Florence, Oregon.
Start Planning Now!
Accommodations fill up fast for Labor Day weekend, so book your stay today, and get ready to make Florence your family’s favorite end-of-summer tradition.
Let us know if you’d like itinerary ideas, lodging recommendations, or a printable list of must-dos—we’re happy to help you. Email us: info@FlorenceChamber.com. Call us: 5410997-3128. Drop by our Visitor Center at 290 Highway 101. Follow us on Facebook.
