Oregon's Northern Coast

The northern Oregon coast is one of the more popular tourist destinations in the state. From Astoria to Lincoln City, you'll find charming cities, cool weather and great views of the Pacific Ocean. Astoria, for example, is located next to the Columbia River, just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean.

Many of these cities have their own charming 18-hole or nine-hole golf courses, most of them very affordable with interesting pasts. The golf course with the most history is probably Gearhart Golf Links, which started in 1892 with just three holes spread out across the coastal dunes in Gearhart, Ore. By 1915, the golf course grew to 18 holes and in 1999 architect Bill Robinson redesigned much of the golf course, adding new bunkers and changing some of the greens. At 6,218 yards, it isn't particularly long, but it is scenic.

Another old course is the nine-hole Seaside Golf Course, which opened in 1923. You could also play the nine-hole Alderbrook Golf Course, a Lee Smith design that opened in 1929. Or head south a ways down the coast for Agate Beach Golf Course, another nine-holer that opened in 1935.

A little more modern is the Salishan Golf Links, a Scottish links-like design that opened in 1965. This 18-hole championship course was designed by Fred Federspiel. Or if resort golf is more your style, head to Lincoln City to check out the Chinook Winds Resort Golf Course, which not only offers golf, but casino gaming as well.