PACIFIC CITY, Ore. — The COVID-19 pandemic seemed to be no match for a combination of abundant sunshine and Oregon’s spring break.

Towns up and down the Oregon coast, and the highways leading to them, were clogged with people and cars Saturday. The crowds stunned many coastal residents, who were angry that so many people seemed to defy social distancing guidelines by gathering together in parking lots and on beaches.

“People, I’m sure are claiming they’re keeping their distance from other people, but based on what I saw at the beach I don’t believe so,” said Tayler Ohlgren, who lives in Pacific City.

While local and state officials have encouraged people to get outside, even during ‘stay-at-home’ requests, they’ve been clear to recommend people should still distance themselves from others.

“They are still gathered in groups,” said Gabrielle…