Stunning Beaches Near Manzanita, Oregon
The north Oregon Coast has dramatic scenery, with cliffs and headlands holding stunning, scenic beaches for you to explore. Beaches in Oregon are all open to the public, so walk to your heart's content! Sandy beaches, stony beaches, hikes through the forest to reach them - you'll find all sorts of adventures and beautiful scenery waiting.
Manzanita Beaches
The easy going village of Manzanita is your jump start to two beautiful beaches; Neahkahnie Beach (also known as Manzanita Beach) and the 4-mile sand spit in Nehalem Bay State Park. Just north of town, Neahkahnie Beach is an active, fun place to wander or set up your camp for the day. Tide pools at the foot of Neahkahnie Mountain are filled with sea stars, nudibranchs, crabs and juvenile sea life. Kite surfing is popular if you're ready for the water temps (brr), or rent a beach cruiser, Funcycle or mountain bike and pedal your way down the sands.
The long sand spit of Nehalem Bay State Park is just south of Manzanita's paved streets; experience the wild side of the beach on the ocean front or the tamer side, back on Nehalem Bay. This quiet, secluded area gives opportunities to see Roosevelt elk, deer and a bevy of birds. Beaches around the bay are popular for fishing, crabbing, clamming, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Cannon Beach: Loved By All Who Visit
A few minutes drive north of Manzanita takes you to Cannon Beach, with 4 miles of broad, sandy beach in front of a village known for its arts community and access to nature. The 235' Haystack Rock is home to tidepools, nesting Tufted Puffins and a plethora of sea life. In the season, trained volunteers will help you with where to look and for what. Bicycles and Funcycles are available to rent, or head out for a long walk south to the Hug Point waterfall. The north side of Cannon Beach gives easy access to the Ecola Creek delta, where you can see the fresh water mixing area; home to a wide variety of wildlife. Cannon Beach has easy access to cafes, shops and services close to the beach.
Step Into History at Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach hasn't changed much with the times and offers an easy step back in time to summer camp at the coast, staying in the family cabin. Today you'll find plenty of comfortable accommodations and a quiet place to enjoy the long 7 miles where sand and surf kiss. Rockhounding, beach combing and tide pooling are year 'round activities that never get old; several varieties of agates keep collectors coming back season after season. And, there's a tree in Rockaway that could be 900 years old! The Sitka spruce is in the Rockaway Cedar Preserve, an easy walk on the boardwalk, and if you listen carefully, maybe it has a history lesson to share. It's estimated to be one of Oregon's biggest trees in terms of sheer mass and its aged bark and twisty limbs make it very photogenic.
Beaches in Oswald West State Park
A beautiful preserved area near Manzanita, Oswald West State Park is the entrance to Smuggler's Cove and Short Sand Beach, aka Shorty's. Popular with surfers and those that like their beach on the wild side, this is a beach for active people. Be prepared to hike about a mile through the forest to reach this magical beach.
Arch Cape Beach is also located inside Oswald West's protection; a long stone beach where beach combing and rock hounding is especially fun. Do check the tide tables here, as the beach is narrow and disappears at the high tide.
Book Your Manzanita Escape Now!
The best part of your Manzanita Beach visit is the wide variety of beaches nearby! Plan your trip now and book a Manzanita vacation rental as your base camp.
Let's Go Shopping in Manzanita, Oregon!
A vacation in funky Manzanita should include time for some Retail Therapy to go with your Vitamin Sea. The unique businesses in Manzanita are mostly locally owned and owner-run, so your shopping in Manzanita directly benefits the community and the people you meet. The browsing along Laneda Avenue is tempting and only about four blocks separates our favorite shops so take a little wander and see what must go home with you!
We Love These Manzanita Shops for Unique Items
Moxie Fair Trade Boutique
Your shopping in Manzanita has global impact at Moxie Fair Trade Boutique where you'll find a carefully curated selection of clothing, jewelry, housewares and gifts from around the world. Shopping here supports women's cooperatives, non-profits and village groups worldwide and full time employment locally.
Four Paws On The Beach
Pets Welcome! Four Paws on the Beach is a pet's dream boutique and a must-go during your Manzanita visit. Matching owner/pet outfits? Yes, please! Well, certainly color coordinated leashes & collars, a wide variety of toys, treats and all things pet related.
T-Spot
Variety, Spice, Life reads the sign outside, tipping you off that T-Spot is a place to explore! A boutique of curiosities where “Pockets” is a magic word and the motto is “Life's too short for boring socks” you're sure to find something to charm you in a selection of hand made, fair trade, or American made items. Manzanita-specific gear to show your love for the beach AND artisan chocolates make this a must-check place.
Toylandia
320 Laneda Ave | Manzanita
Rainy days will never get you down when you've stocked a new board game on your shopping trip in Manzanita. Stuffed with colorful books, games, puzzles and toys of every shape and size, this busy shop has something for everyone you know. Board games, card games, educational toys, stuffies and puzzles, there's no shortage of indoor activity fun for the days you stay in.
Manzanita Sweets
Every beach town needs a signature candy shop and Manzanita Sweets is here for your Manzanita shopping stroll.. Salt water taffy, chocolate delicacies and all the nostalgic candies your parents wouldn't let you have. Get in touch with your inner child (or your actual child) with a stop at co-owned Manzanita Sweets and Toylandia.
Family-Friendly Activities In Manzanita!
Manzanita is a great vacation destination for families. This beloved beach town has something for everyone. From horseback riding through coastal dunes to exploring seven miles of sandy beach, to catching local crab, hitting the links, and shopping on charming Laneda Avenue, there is an endless amount of fun to be had in Manzanita!
Check out some of our favorite family-friendly things to do in Manzanita:
HEAD TO THE BEACH
Manzanita Beach boasts a beautiful stretch of sand, perfect for building sandcastles, beach combing, exploring tide pools, and ending a fun-filled day watching the sun set over the glimmering and majestic ocean.
HORSEBACK RIDES
Explore Oregon's stunning coastline and rugged dunes on horseback. Oregon Beach Rides has experienced horses for all skill levels, and even mini horses to accommodate kids! Schedules are seasonal, and they book up in advance, so make sure to call about availability.
PADDLE TIME
Looking to give paddle boarding a try? The local outfitters at Kayak Tillamook and SUP Manzanita offer lessons and guided tours of the scenic waterways, including Nehalem Bay and Nehalem River. Already a pro? Wheeler Marina rents canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards.
GO CRABBING
A trip to the Oregon Coast isn't complete without giving crabbing a try. The friendly and knowledgeable crew at Kelly's Brighton Marina are passionate about crabbing, and guarantee you and your family will have a crab-tastic experience whether crabbing from the dock or their guided boat. The crew will also offer to cook and clean your catch on-site if you wish to enjoy your fresh catch right then & there! You can also rent one of their boats, or launch your own and explore some of the best fishing spots for Chinook salmon and Steelhead in the area.
HIT THE LINKS
Enjoy fun, links style golf for the whole family. Manzanita Links blends ocean and forest settings together, creating a magical experience for players of all skill levels. They also offer contactless online check-in, and “Thank You Thursdays” - 9-holes for only $20 for active military, firefighters, frontline healthcare workers, police officers, public city employees, and teachers.
STROLL THE SHOPS ALONG LANEDA AVENUE
Laneda Avenue is the heartbeat of Manzanita, boasting a variety of charming locally-owned shops. Pick up the perfect book to read in front of a cozy fire at your vacation beach rental at Cloud & Leaf Bookstore, spoil your favorite pup at Four Paws, find the perfect gift for that someone special, or a souvenir for yourself at local boutique finnesterre, or pick up a new board game for family game night at Toylandia.
READY TO BOOK A GETAWAY THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL LOVE?
Book your next vacation getaway today at Manzanita Vacation Rentals by Meredith Lodging, or on Meredith Lodging's Manzanita vacation rentals collection page. We have an impressive collection of vacation rentals to choose from - many are pet friendly, too! We hope to see you in Manzanita soon!
Best Coffee Spots on the Oregon Coast
There is something irresistible about the aroma of a strong cup of coffee mixed with misty salty air. A great cup of coffee and the Oregon Coast is one of our all-time favorite pairings!
We have put together a list of some great spots to satisfy your caffeine craving along the Oregon Coast:
Five Rivers Coffee in Tillamook
Conveniently located on Hwy 101 in Tillamook, Five Rivers Coffee serves premium house roasted coffee, freshly baked pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. In the mood for something more decadent? Make sure and try one of their House specialties like the Miami Whammy: a mocha loaded with flavors of almond, coconut, and white chocolate. This is the perfect place to grab breakfast before making your way down the Oregon Coast for an adventure-filled day.
Sleepy Monk in Cannon Beach
Do not sleep on the opportunity to enjoy one of the best cups of coffee on the Oregon Coast at Sleepy Monk. All of their certified organic coffees are roasted locally and sourced internationally. Locals and visitors alike love their warm and welcoming service, and of course, the coffee!
Left Coast Coffee Co. in Depoe Bay
Enjoy a brew with a view at Left Coast Coffee Co. Their café is located directly across from the “Spouting Horn”, so you can savor a truly great cup of coffee, as you cross this natural phenomena off your must-see list!
The Beachside Buzz in Waldport
Looking for a quick caffeine fix? Head to The Beachside Buzz coffee hut in Waldport, where you can always indulge in a seasonal latte flavor like pumpkin spice, maple blondie, and candy cane mocha.
The Green Salmon Coffee Company in Yachats
Stop by this neighborhood favorite where you can choose from a wide selection of espresso, coffee drinks, and distinctive teas. They also serve freshly baked pastries, breakfast sandwiches, bagels and lox, and oatmeal, making Green Salmon Coffee Company a perfect spot before spending the day at the beach.
Book a Stay with Us!
Explore the Oregon Coast, and drink some great coffee along the way! Manzanita Vacation Rentals by Meredith Lodging has an amazing collection of coastal vacation rentals to accommodate all group sizes, budgets, and pets, too! You can view our entire coastal collection online, or call our Reservations Team at 541.418.4070 to book your stay.
Outdoor Activities in Manzanita, Oregon - Family Fun in Manzanita!
Manzanita has something for everyone! If you prefer to spend your vacation with excitement and adventure, consider horseback riding through coastal dunes, playing the day away on the beach, catching some local crabs, or hitting the golf course. If you love shopping, explore unique local shops and find the perfect souvenir to bring home. No matter your vacation style, there is no shortage of fun to be had in Manzanita.
Check out some of our favorite things to do outside in Manzanita:
HORSEBACK RIDES
Imagine exploring the scenic Oregon coastline, and even spotting the occasional gray whale - all on horseback! Oregon Beach Rides has experienced horses for all skill levels, and miniature horses to accommodate kids! Schedules are seasonal, and they book up in advance, so make sure and call to inquire about availability.
PADDLE TIME
Have you wanted to give stand-up paddle boarding a try? Local outfitters Kayak Tillamook offers lessons and guided tours of the scenic waterways, including the Nehalem Bay and Nehalem River. Already a pro paddler? Wheeler Marina rents paddle boards, kayaks and canoes.
HEAD FOR THE BEACH
Manzanita Beach offers a beautiful stretch of pristine sand, perfect for building sandcastles, or watching the sun set over the glimmering ocean. A walk down the beach ends at the base of Neahkahnie Mountain, creating a stunning backdrop to capture that frame-worth pic!
HIT THE LINKS
The stunning course at Manzanita Links blends ocean and forest together, creating a memorable experience for players of all skill levels. The golf course offers contactless online check-in, and “Thank You Thursdays” - 9-holes for only $20 for active military, police officers, firefighters, frontline healthcare workers, public city employees, and teachers.
GO CRABBING
Some locals might say a visit to the Oregon Coast isn't complete without giving crabbing a try. The friendly and knowledgeable crew at Kelly's Brighton Marina are passionate about crabbing, and guarantee you and your family will have a blast whether crabbing from the dock or their guided boat. They also offer to cook and clean your catch on-site if you wish to enjoy your fresh catch right then & there! You can also rent one of their boats, or launch your own and explore some of the best Chinook salmon and Steelhead trout fishing spots in the region.
STROLL AND SHOP ALONG LANEDA AVENUE
Laneda Avenue is the heart and soul of Manzanita, showcasing a variety of charming locally-owned shops and restaurants. Pick up the perfect beach read at Cloud & Leaf Bookstore, spoil your favorite furry family member at Four Paws, find the perfect gift for that someone special at local boutique finnesterre, or stop and sip awhile at Dixie's Vino.
READY TO DISCOVER WONDERFUL WORLD OF OUTDOOR RECREATION IN MANZANITA?
Book your getaway today at Manzanita Vacation Rentals by Meredith Lodging or on Meredith Lodging's Manzanita vacation rentals collection page. We have a lovely collection of vacation rentals to choose from - many are pet friendly, too! We hope to see you on Laneda Avenue soon!