You couldn't miss Seaside Factory Outlet Center even if you tried. It is perfectly located just at the entrance to this charming resort town on the scenic coastal Highway 101 intersecting 12th Avenue, across from the Cannes Cinema Center. The shopping center has over 25 stores covering approximately 100,000 square feet of overwhelming bargain shopping. It offered fine designer labels and national name brand merchandise at 20% to 70% lower than retail prices all directly from manufacturers.

The selections were wide-ranging: baby clothes from Oshkosh B’gosh, active wear from Eddie Bauer, shoes from Nine West, sneakers from Nike, K B Toys, reasonably-priced playwear from Liz Claiborne, and top quality designer clothes from Jones New York. The merchandise mix varies from the upscale to the affordable, from name brands to gifts and crafts, kitchenware, apparel, accessories, men’s and women’s shoes, hair care products, luggage, children's clothing, as well as a wide variety of men's clothing. Although the Kitchen Collection shop was not big, we spent almost an hour inside, going through 3 or 4 aisles of good shopping, including pots and pans, numerous gadgets, and useless counter hogging contraptions. During this visit, the George Foreman Grill was on special, selling at least 30% less than retail. Now I make perfectly cooked filet mignons and golden brown grilled cheese sandwiches every time. For wine connoisseurs, make time to visit one of the best wine shops on the Oregon Coast, Wine Haus; the selection was huge, over 800 labels, and they also carry a vast selection of imported and domestic beers.

Some outlets run daily specials, which means double discounts. Plus Oregon state is tax-free shopping, which means more savings. Irresistible bargain shopping? Don’t worry -- many stores offer shipping services. Open daily 363 days; Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am-7pm. Closed on Christmas and Thanksgiving.