For more activities visit www.hilltophousegb.com and click on "Activities" for links to all local sporting and social events and activities.
I just had to share this video about the seals and the sea lions (scroll down further) at the Oregon Coast Aquarium
Current exhibit "Passages of the Deep"
I have mixed feelings about zoos and aquariums -- after all if the animals and sea creatures weren't in captivity they would experience what nature intended -- the amazing wilderness and the beauty of being free (along with its dangers and pitfalls).
But on the other hand it does help humans become more familiar with these creatures and by building understanding, hopefully it helps to ensure that we will respect their rights and realize that they share the legacy of co-habiting on this planet.
Back to the Seals I included this video because I love the way it shows how seals can think strategically. It appears that you can feed the seals and if you watch closely most go with the herd mentality and try to chase after the two fish that the guy is throwing. But watch the one that stays up on the rocks, you can see how he thinks. He realizes that if he stays on the rocks he can be in the spotlight and he even does a cute trick (rolling over) to get attention. It probably works a lot of the time to get a fish thrown up there where there is no competition-- even though this time it didn't. Smart little guys I'd say.
Oregon Aquarium Seals
Surfin' the Coast
Windsurfing
Gold Beach is considered among the choice spots for windsurfing adventures with a stretch of coastline that spans 10 miles south of Gold Beach, from Cape Sebastian to Pistol River. If new to surfing head inland to Floras Lake, two miles east of US 101 near Port Orford, where you can learn the sport. Spring and early summer conditions are the best.
Horseback Riding
Horses love surf and sand, You know the ride will be a good one because horses love surf and sand. Gold Beach riding is amazing because of the choice of scenery and trails. Siskiyou West Day Lodge (pictured above) rents horses of all temperaments and rider skill levels for treks on the beach, local dunes and the owner’s ranch, just south of Gold Beach at Pistol River.
If you trailer in your own horse, box stalls are available for brief stays at the Curry County Fairgrounds in Gold Beach (541-247-4541), but call at least a month in advance for availability; during horse shows and the July fair you may be out of luck. Tuck in your horse for $15 a night, then take him out for a beach run the next morning. The closest campground with equestrian accommodations is Cape Blanco State Park, about an hour north.
Birding, Wildlife and Farms
Art Galleries and Local Artists
Art colony at Gold Beach – watch the video
