7/15-7/16/2023 A simple two-night getaway to Astoria. Just because. Last time I was here was three years ago, as part of a more extensive trip (page 17 of the travel section). I had noted to myself back then that I would like to explore the area more. Guess now is the time. I'm also bringing the kayak, as there are many places to paddle.

I booked the same hotel as last time, the Astoria Riverwalk Inn, because I really liked its location on the marina, the views from the room, and easy access to everything. Plan is to drive down Saturday, stay Saturday and Sunday nights, then Monday morning drive to work (a 2-hour commute but doable).

Heading west on 30, Sauvie Island is on the way so I stop for a swim at the beach. There is a large car carrier ship on the way out to the ocean.

The drive is uneventful, mostly scenic, and the hotel is as I remember it. Perfect for what I have in mind.

The first thing on my list to explore is the wreck of Peter Iredale that I only recently became aware of. Light and tide favored my visit, so I got a few good shots.

Would have been cool to have seen it in earlier stages of decay. Some have.

The surrounding area is very scenic on its own.

Next stop is Fort Stevens nearby. Not a busy time clearly, as I have the place all to myself. Just how I like it.

Then back to the hotel to walk around the port area and catch the sunset.

The car carrier I saw from the beach some 4 hours ago has now made its way to the ocean.

A bit of catching up on emails and other work, then heading out to see what the place looks like at night. There is a Canadian navy ship docked at the nearby pier.

And some decrepid train cars on the tracks.

Downtown is not far but I elect to drive this time (will walk tomorrow).

The sign is well designed, I just had to go in. Exactly what I expected. A dive bar with a dance stage. The vodka shot was so full it was impossible to pick it up off the counter without spilling some.

A drink with a view.

$20 in singles ('stripper treats', as I call them), and half hour later I move on to see what else is there to see.

A maritime museum, for one.

Morning brings low tide. The low point today (about now) is -1'. There will be a high tide mid-afternoon, and then again at 2am with the peak being +9'. Pix below.

But that is skipping ahead. First thing is to take a walk along the riverwalk. Took several hours, cool views.

It looked like the Canadian ship was about to depart so I stuck around for a bit to see that.

Cool. Then on with the rest of the walk.

That done, time to go for a paddle. The John Day boat launch is only a 12 minute drive away.

About a 7-mile roundtrip in just under two hours. Good workout. On the way back a stop at the grocery store to restock on wine (hey, I earned it) then just catching up on work and relaxing at the hotel.

Hotel breakfast is served starting at 6:30am. It is modest but good. And the view is killer. It is low tide again.

Taking 101 south and 26 in, there is rain and mid-50s temperature. But I've had my fun, so all is good. Just makes me appreciate my weather luck all the more. The 2-hour commute is very scenic, and then I'm back to reality. So good to escape every now and then.