Looking for inspiration for your book, short story, poem?

Or maybe just a place to let go?

West of Coos Bay, Oregon, park in the day-use lot at Sunset Bay State Park. Take the trail toward Cape Arago, along the clifftops, about four miles with a few modest dips and climbs. You will hear the sea lions before you see them. Keep an eye out for the lighthouse.

I hope you remembered lunch to enjoy on an ocean-view bench at Cape Arago.

On the way back, treat yourself to a easy detour through the gardens at Shore Acres. Don’t miss the rose garden. Not a bad place to eat the candy bar you saved from lunch.

This is about as good as it gets in Oregon. Or anywhere.