We brought ours last weekend. We did have several off leash dogs approach us, which was fine but might not be for all dogs.

No it’s not at this time

Sorry, no. We were camping.

We used Wildwood Adventures. A small group on a luxury van that stops at the highlights along the coast near Cannon Beach.

I guess it really depends where you want to go. Let’s say you want to get to Cannon Beach - then I’d say take 26 all the way. Then you could travel south on 101 to view the coast. It’s easier to pull into the scenic stops if they are on your right. And do pull in, especially after Oswald State Park for those views at the Neahkahnie Viewpoints. If you are running out of time and need to head back, then pick up 53 and head back to 26. There will be 10 miles of curvy roads. Just take it easy. If the kids are doing well and you are not done exploring, then head down to Tillamook and back by route 6. Once again, curvy and much longer than 53, but you would be heading uphill, generally, and there are enough passing lanes to avoid becoming the head of the parade.

Yes,it's not hard. We just used an Oregon Map and followed the best route. We did not go through Astoria although that is an option. I can't remember the names of hi ways...a map will be most useful or Google Map it.We did not go into Portland at all just stayed on the outskirts and had a lot of I 5 traffic. Not sure if this helps. You can do it easily is the main idea.

This is definitely doable in one day, even with kids.

I would go to Ecola State Park an take in the views from there. Fabulous!

I did not see anything like that, but I was on the beach.