Stephanie Inn

written by Kerry Newberry

When the iconic Stephanie Inn opened thirty years ago, the vision was to create the ultimate beach house, a retreat that felt like the luxurious yet comfortable home of a good friend (a friend that has the design aesthetic of filmmaker Nancy Meyers). Let’s say mission accomplished and more. Especially with the recent renovation that enhanced the already resplendent inn.

As part of the remodel, you’ll find an expansive collection of commissioned artwork from coastal artists throughout the property. On rainy days, take advantage of the guided art tours—schedule the walk around afternoon happy hour and you can learn about local legends like painter Jeffrey Hull while sipping a flute of rosé bubbles from the Willamette Valley.

Other new additions for guests include seasonal experiences from sunrise yoga to guided tidepool adventures, farm-to-bar mixology class and culinary outings with executive chef Aaron Bedard that range from shopping the local farmers market to catching Dungeness crab.

But don’t be surprised if you find yourself lingering in your room—the oceanfront ones offer a mystical view of Haystack Rock, the 235-foot-tall sea stack that rises like a regal sculpture from windswept surf. Perched above the sliver-blue water, watching the swish of dune grass and the riffle of waves, you’ll find a renewed sense of wonder that only comes from the sea.

ROOMS

Each of the forty-two rooms at the inn is an oasis of calm with cozy in-room fireplaces, plush robes, soaking tubs (plus steam showers) and elegant decor with earthy tones. Thoughtful amenities like binoculars to spot seabirds and wave-chasing surfers along with local art and books add to the coastal hygge. Stay in one of the oceanfront rooms for a world famous view—it’s enchanting to see ocean waves swishing and swirling around Haystack Rock at dawn and dusk.

ART

Take time to explore the expansive collection of commissioned artwork from coastal artists that was curated to celebrate the inn’s thirtieth anniversary. The “Art of the Stephanie” includes nineteen original pieces and ranges from sea-glass chandeliers to a wall of ethereal gyotaku (fish prints) by Duncan Berry. Other evocative works that capture the magic of seascapes: Pacific Cathedral, a watercolor piece by renowned Cannon Beach artist Jeffrey Hull, and Dreaming in Blue by surfer-painter Drea Rose Frost.

AMENITIES

From complimentary beach cruiser bicycles to a concierge for beach bonfires, the amenities here are above par. In the beachfront library, there’s a local wine and beer happy hour in the afternoons and a “good nightcap” with housemade cordials at 9 p.m. A lobby cookie jar and coffee bar remains stocked with housemade treats. Book ahead to unwind at the on-site spa with a signature massage or facial treatment. Departure gifts that make leaving easier: the chef’s trail mix and a “Stereo Stephanie” playlist for the drive home.

DINING

Mornings start with a breakfast buffet that will satisfy any craving from signature scrambles and mini waffles to pepper bacon, pork sausage and pan-fried potatoes. You’ll also find pastries and muffins along with fresh fruit, berries and granola. Made-to-order options range from avocado toast to a veggie hash. For dinner, the chef offers a seasonal tasting menu sourcing from local fishers, farms and ranches.