When asked to choose the place to stay on the Oregon coast, most Oregonians would recommend the
Salishan Spa and Golf Resort (7760 N. U.S. 101, Gleneden Beach, 541/764-3600 or 800/452-2300, www.salishan.com, $190 and up). Named for a widespread native dialect in the Oregon Territory, this resort, a couple of miles south of Lincoln City, was updated in 2008.

While there are distant Siletz Bay views, Salishan isn’t a beachfront resort, and most folks quickly learn to appreciate the peace of the forest and the golf course. This paradigm shift is facilitated by art and landscape architecture that convey the vision of John Gray, who built Salishan and such other Northwest properties as Skamania Lodge (on the Washington side of the Columbia Gorge) and Sunriver (south of Bend) from native materials with respect for the surrounding environment.

Even if you don’t stay here, the grounds and facilities are worth a look. The art gallery is free and features works by top Oregon artists; also check out master woodcarver Leroy Setziol’s bas-relief panels in the dining room. In addition to the recreational and aesthetic appeal of the resort, the dining room contributes to Salishan’s lofty reputation.

The forested trails behind the golf course showcase the rain-forested foothills of the Coast Range and the waterfowl near Siletz Bay. Across the street, the Salishan Marketplace features first-rate galleries and a good bookstore, Allegory Books.

In high season, Salishan attracts well-heeled nature lovers, corporate expense-account clientele, folks enjoying a special occasion, and serious golfers. You’ll also find everyday folks and seminar attendees on winter weekend specials at half the summertime rates. Ask about multiday packages for big savings on your room rate.

If you’ve been fantasizing about rolling out of bed, slipping on your robe—coffee in hand—and walking out onto a semiprivate stretch of beach, then the Inn at Spanish Head (4009 SW U.S. 101, 541/996-2161 or 800/452-8127, www.spanishhead.com, $205 and up) may be your best bet. Oregon’s only resort hotel right on the beach, the inn takes its place—large and looming—against the backdrop of rugged cliffs. Whether in a suite, studio, or bedroom unit, every room has an ocean view.

On-site amenities include Fathoms, the 10th-floor restaurant-bar, a fireplace lounge, meeting rooms, a heated outdoor pool, saunas, a spa, and an exercise room.