Portland - The City Of Roses

I will be moving to portland, Oregon shortly from the 'revered' bay area. Though portland is another IT hub, its far less expensive and not very crowded. The sad part is the climate, its gloomy and cloudy almost 8-9 months in a year. That hurts. The reason for my move is that all our offices are getting consolidated in our headquarters here in portland. I had an option of working from home but I hate that idea. Also some benevolent exec decided to hand out some money to aid in relocation which worked to my advantage.
The Oregon coast is voted as one of the most scenic coastlines in the world. The rocky sea shores are paralleled by none. The historic 101 route trudges all along the coast. What this means is that am gonna drive on thie route for 5-6 days starting from san francisco and ending in portland, stopping at various places and enjoying the coast. The drive is not planned as of yet. The most definite pit stops are Redwood National park, Lassen Volcanic National Park and Crater Lake National Park. 5-6 days of solitary driving, its just me, my coupe and mother nature.
So why is portland called the city of roses? In summer roses just grow like weeds in this city.

UPDATE : The itenerary is set. All hotel bookings are done.

Day 1:
8 PM - Departure
Next morning 5 AM - Reach Crescent city.: 300 miles

Day 2 and 3 : Crescent city, Explore the Redwood national park

Day 4:
7 AM : Start the drive up the coast of oregon, drive all day: 230 miles
8 PM : Reach Newport, check in and relax.

Day 5:
8 AM: Depart Newport, drive till evening: 110 miles
8 PM : Arrive Cannon beach, check in.

Day 6:
8 AM: Explore Cannon beach
Evening depart for portland : 80 miles