If you’re thinking about a vacation to the Pacific Northwest, consider the charming coastal town of Manzanita, Oregon. You can hike to the top of 1,680-foot Neahkahnie Mountain or shop for crafts on Laneda Ave. Local artists sell their wares on quality products made in a socially responsible manner. Each purchase helps the artist, which is great news for everyone!
If you’re traveling with your family, consider spending a day in the town. The sandy beaches are 7 miles long, and the town is dotted with shops, restaurants, and bars. Local beekeepers make honey and package it in cute glass bees. Jacobsen salt is harvested from the local Netarts Bay. It’s an unbeatable combination of local flavor and quality. You’ll feel the difference as soon as you arrive!
Located on the North Coast, Manzanita is a sleepy seaside town between Wheeler and Astoria. The winding streets and quaint atmosphere provide an authentic coastal experience for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s also less than an hour’s drive from Portland, making it a popular vacation spot. You can spend a day fishing, hiking, or exploring the charming little hamlet.
If you’re looking for an active weekend or a vacation with the family, you can take the family geocaching. Manzanita’s beach is the perfect spot for kids to try their hand at it! And if you’re looking for a peaceful setting to spend the day, consider the Nehalem Bay State Park, just south of Manzanita. You’ll find biking trails, bird spotting, and a sand dunes on the south side of town.
The population of Manzanita is deceptive compared to its size. While the town’s downtown has a lively mix of shops and restaurants, the rural residential area is relatively small with only 200-300 residents. Considering Manzanita’s location in the Nehalem Valley, the overall population of this town is just over 1,500 people. While the majority of residents work in tourism, there are still many traditional jobs in this sleepy town. Its occupancy rate is a low 25 percent.
While the beaches in nearby Seaside are more crowded, you can hike the seven-mile-long Manzanita Beach to get a better view. The town’s seven-mile-long beach is rarely crowded, and is popular with families and kiteboarders. You can also hike up NeahKahnie Mountain for a spectacular view of the area. A moderate hike is worth the effort.
Nearby areas include Falcon Cove and Arch Cape. These are relatively small, but picturesque. Parking in these areas can be a challenge, but the views are spectacular. Manzanita’s beach extends to Neahkanie Beach on the southern end. You can enjoy the ocean’s crystalline waters, hike to Neahkahnie Mountain and take in some of the incredible sunsets from this location.