The Brand Next Door

View Original

Stay Here: Headlands Lodge in Pacific City, Oregon

Last year, I wrote about our time in Pacific City and how it’s my favorite little place along the Oregon Coast.

At that time, I didn’t know I’d be able to return so soon, but when my best college girlfriends presented the opportunity to check out Headlands Lodge, which opened a few months after my first trip, I couldn’t say no.

Historically, we’ve tried to get together at least once a year at an event of our own creation—not a shower or a wedding—but a girls’ trip planned just for us where we can have concentrated time together. Usually, we’d jet off somewhere warm and concentrate our time on drinks and shopping. Now that we all have husbands and babies to attend to, though, we have added priorities: spa. Relaxation. Drinks and shopping still matter, too, but not as much.

When my bff suggested Headlands, I was all about it, not only because it was only a few hours from my in-laws’s house, where I would be more comfortable leaving my little fam (now with a 5-month-old in tow who would be living off of previously-pumped boobsicles and a little formula + the first tastes of my MIL’s homemade apple sauce), but also because my achy muscles and over-worked brain needed some girl time over fancy meals and epic views. I knew this place was going to be perfect.

Here’s why you’ll love Headlands:

  • It is fancy, but not pretentious (consider that most of the clientele is likely coming from Portland and they love their beards and beanies, even in the summer)

  • It has 33 ocean-front lodge guest rooms and 18 ocean-front cottages (bigger, for larger groups)

  • It has a DELICIOUS restaurant

  • According to the bartender, all the pretty decor we asked about was sourced “from Europe.” Even the napkins. This might not be true, but the point is every touch is well-thought

  • Their motto is “Head Out. Stay In.” and either option feels perfect

  • They have little snack stations on every floor with artisanal snacks

  • They have a whole list of daily activities including group fitness classes and daily yoga

  • The lodge guest rooms are large and cozy enough (we’re talking fireplaces and robes) to comfortably fit four moms in their 30s who are still down to share a room

  • You can park your car their for free

  • BUNNIES. Everywhere. And the cute Cadbury ones in all different colors and fluff levels. This is something that I’ve seen all along beach towns (including the one I live in), but they’re extra cute in Oregon

  • Beach cruisers to rent for free

The spa is small, but still pretty and did the trick. My therapist used some new moves on me I hadn’t experienced before, which is always worth noting. If you’re looking for a true SPAHHHH escape, hit up Terranea near LA, or even Suncadia just over Snoqualmie Pass. I’ve also heard amazing things about Posthotel in Leavenworth (they have spa nap beds, heyyy), but! If you’re looking for those Oregon Coast vibes you really can’t find anywhere else, hit up Headlands. Family, ladies, “team building”—this place is perfect for everyone.