• Tony Fischer Photography
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    Portland, Ore. is second only to Seattle as the nation's most famous soggy metropolis. But come summer, the Portland area basks in sun and warm weather made all the more glorious by a refreshing breeze off the Olympic Mountains. It's the ideal time to explore. So as the hottest months approach, load up the car and head out on one of these perfect made-for-summer Portland road trips.

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    First stop: Cannon Beach, where you can scour the shore for seashells or dig for razor clams. If your skills are up to it, you can even surf a few waves. To get there, head west on scenic Highway 26 for 73 miles, then follow the 101 south a few miles into town. The views are breathtaking, and a cup of coffee at the Sleepy Monk Cafe can’t be beat. 

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    A 20-minute drive Down Highway 101 from Cannon Beach takes you to awe-inspiring Manzanita. Stroll along the shore or explore some of the nearby parks offering hiking or camping.

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    Another coastal town well worth the drive is Seaside. Like Cannon Beach and Manzanita, Seaside has a sleepy, old-world feel. But each August, the town's beach volleyball tournament attracts 800 teams that play on 100 courts. It's the largest amateur volleyball tournament in the world.

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    Just two miles north of Cannon Beach is Ecola State Park. Stop off at Tillamook Head lookout and take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific. If you're in the mood for a hike, hit the Clatsop Loop Trail, which is a manageable two miles. Other trails will take you along the forest or the beach.

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    For a foodie road trip, leave Portland on I-5 north and head west on Highway 30. In about 90 minutes, you'll roll into beautiful Astoria, where you can reward yourself with a frothy caffeinated beverage at Astoria Coffee House. Then head south 20 minutes along the coast to Pacific Way Bakery in Gearhart for delicious breads and pastries. End the day with dinner at Yummy Wine & Bistro in nearby Seaside.

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    You don't have to go far from Portland to cool down. A 45-minute drive from the city will get you to the Washougal River. As one local puts it, the river is "one of the best and least discovered swimming holes around.” Natural pools and slides make it the perfect spot to cool down. Afterward, enjoy a picnic.

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    A 10-minute drive from Portland on Highway 30 takes you to Sauvie Island, where you can pick your own produce. Depending on the season, you can find farms growing strawberries, raspberries, rhubarb and pumpkins. You'll also enjoy great views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Saint Helens. To lessen your chances of running into crowds, go on a weekday.

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    Of course, you don't have to leave town to enjoy a beautiful Northwest day. Try one of Portland’s many museums or galleries, a handful of which are in the trendy Pearl District. Sit down for a delicious cup of famous Portland coffee at The Daily Cafe. In late September, head to the Portland City Riverfest, which offers music, food and a full-on celebration of the Williamette River.