If you’re looking for a quick escape, head up the Pacific Coast Highway and pull over at a small beach town like Cannon Beach. The tide pools and quiet shoreline make for a perfect mid‑trip pause, and there’s a short, scenic hike right there that won’t take up too much time. If you have a little extra, a detour to a nearby state park—maybe the lush forests of Willamette Valley—adds a nice touch of nature without pulling you too far off the main road.