Bookstore geek: Books by the Bay

There are probably few better ways to spend a rainy winter day in the little town of North Bend, Oregon, than in Books by the Bay. (Especially if you're a bookstore geek, but even if you're not.)

Books by the Bay has a lovely selection of both new and used books, as well as cards and gifts. Even better, its cafe, The Grounds, offers lunchy items and the usual warm, highly caffeinated cafe drinks (another nice reason to be there on a rainy day).

There are a few cozy chairs — and the bookstore's wide-open spaces and expansive shelves are great for browsing.

The store's good light and whitewashed bookshelves remind you that the ocean isn't too far away…and Books by the Bay is the perfect place to pick up your beach reading.