Manzanita Oregon

Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the rugged cliffs of Neahkahnie Mountain, Manzanita, Oregon is a charming coastal village that offers stunning scenery, outdoor adventure, and a relaxed, small-town feel. It’s the perfect getaway for nature lovers and those looking to escape the crowds of larger coastal towns.

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Things to Do in Manzanita Oregon

Manzanita Beach

Miles of soft, sandy shoreline stretch along the town, making Manzanita Beach one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches on the Oregon Coast. Whether you’re taking a sunset walk, flying a kite, or just listening to the waves, this beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Manzanita is scenic, and originally drew interest from Portland tourists for its turquoise surf, striking exposed cliffs, and dreamlike, hazy horizons. Retreat homes line the beach and nautically-named streets end in paths to the ocean.

One of the most popular surf spots on the Oregon Coast. You can rent a board in Manzanita if you want to give it a try. If you walk to the northern edge of the beach, you’ll find a small seasonal waterfall cascading down the cliffs.

Neahkahnie Mountain

Neahkahnie Mountain is one of the most iconic hikes on the Oregon Coast, offering a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Manzanita, Nehalem Bay, and the Pacific Ocean from its 1,631-foot summit. The name "Neahkahnie" comes from a Native American legend that speaks of buried treasure somewhere on the mountain, adding an air of mystery to the hike. The trail winds through lush coastal forest and leads to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Pacific. It’s a moderate hike, about 3 miles round trip, but the reward at the summit is worth every step.

Short Route: Neahkahnie Mountain Trailhead (via Highway 101) – 1.5 miles to the summit (3 miles round trip) The shorter route from Highway 101 is a steep but rewarding trek through lush coastal forests of towering Sitka spruce and moss-covered firs. As you ascend, the forest gradually opens up, revealing sweeping views of the coastline. The final stretch to the summit is a rocky scramble, but it’s manageable for most hikers and absolutely worth the effort.

Longer Route: South Neahkahnie Mountain Trailhead – 3 miles to the summit (6 miles round trip) The longer route from the south trailhead starts at a gentler incline, winding through dense forests before joining the main trail up to the summit. This is a great option if you prefer a more gradual climb or want a longer, immersive experience in the wilderness.

Time Needed: 2–3 hours (depending on pace and route) What to Bring: Water, sturdy hiking shoes, a windbreaker (it can be windy at the top), camera, and snacks

Oswald West State Park

Just a short drive north of Manzanita, Oswald West State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This spectacular coastal park is a must-visit for anyone in Manzanita. It’s home to old-growth forests, dramatic sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and some of the best surfing spots in Oregon.

The main draw is Short Sand Beach (a.k.a. "Shorty’s"), a picturesque cove tucked between towering cliffs and lush forest. A short, easy half-mile walk from the parking lot through a mossy, fern-filled rainforest leads you to Short Sand Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand with dramatic rock formations and crashing waves. The beach is popular with surfers, but it's also a great place for picnicking, tide-pooling, and just soaking in the scenery. Tide Pools at low tide, explore the rocky edges of the beach for sea anemones, crabs, and starfish.

Cape Falcon Trail is a great scenic 4.6-mile hike with spectacular coastal views from the park. A moderate coastal hike with jaw-dropping ocean views at the top. Elk Flats Trail (2 miles round trip) leads to stunning ocean viewpoints and hidden beaches. Bring a picnic and spend at least a few hours exploring the park—there’s so much to see beyond the main beach!

Nehalem Bay

Nehalem Bay is a great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, with calm waters, plenty of wildlife, and beautiful views. You might spot harbor seals, bald eagles, and even elk along the shoreline. Rentals are available in the area.

One of three communities ringing Nehalem Bay, Manzanita is close in driving distance to the towns of Nehalem and Wheeler. Just a few miles south of Manzanita, the towns of Nehalem and Wheeler offer great spots for antiquing, boutique shopping, and grabbing a bite by the water.

The bay boasts excellent fishing spots, with great catches of Chinook salmon, sturgeon, and steelhead trout, as well as crabbing and clam-digging at low tide. Nehalem Bay is a serene and picturesque waterway, offering a chance to see coastal wildlife up close, paddle through hidden estuaries, and soak in stunning views of Neahkahnie Mountain in the distance. The calm waters make it ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Three Capes Scenic Loop

You do not only have to hike to see Manzanita’s sights. On the contrary, a drive along the Three Capes Scenic Loop will provide you with a striking experience of Oregon’s beauty. We are referring to a drive that includes three magnificent capes, each unique on its own!

If you decide to give this drive an opportunity, you will begin with Cape Meares Lighthouse which comes with astonishing panoramic views. The next one is Cape Lookout, ideal for whale watching. Lastly, Cape Kiwanda is the third cape that allows you to climb on a dune and be left in awe by the ocean sight.

As you can see, this is more than just a simple drive. It is actually one of the greatest things to do in Manzanita, Oregon, for a half day. More importantly, the experience is unparalleled, meaning you will never regret your decision!

Manzanita Links

A 9-hole Gem on the Oregon Coast. Fun, links style golf for the entire family. Manzanita Links brings the ocean and forest settings together for a magical experience for players of all ability levels.

The course was designed by Ted Erickson, and opened in 1987. It offers tree-lined fairways, easy walking and a pleasant game. On the 5th hole there's a 60 foot drop to the fairway below.

 

 

Fish the Swing

Some of the worlds best steelhead fishing is in Oregon. The Willamette Valley which is near Manzanita is the heart of steelhead country and Fish the Swing provides you with guides expertise the opportunity to catch steelhead trout. 

Fish the Swing is a fly fishing guide service owned and operated by Jeff Hickman, specializing in two-handed rod fly fishing for steelhead in northern Oregon’s best rivers

Fish The Swing has the unique ability to use both your existing skills and teach you new skills to give you the best chance at catching fish while giving you the best experience possible on the water. 

The Winery at Manzanita 

The Winery at Manzanita is just 3 blocks from the beach. With 20 different wines in the tasting room - Pinot Noirs, Whites, Sparkling, Rose, Merlot, Cabernet, Malbec and more. These incredible wines, firepits, tasting room, winery, vineyard, and friendly customer service to welcome you. This is winery at Manzanita is an experience not to savor.

 

 

Shopping in Manzanita

Moxie Fair Trade

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Cloud and Leaf Bookstore

Cloud & Leaf is an independent bookstore in the heart of Manzanita, Oregon.  They offer recommendations and you can also easily order almost anything you’re looking for.

 

Where to Eat in Manzanita

Manzanita Coffee Co.

A small coffee shop with a big heart. Located in downtown Manzanita, just a block off the beach.
Espresso, Breakfast, Lunch & Bakery!

Left Coast Siesta

A local favorite for delicious Mexican food, especially their massive burritos.

Sand Dune Pub

Cozy pub atmosphere with great burgers and local beers on tap.

Marzano’s Pizza Pie

If you’re craving a slice, this place serves up some of the best wood-fired pizza on the coast.

Yolk

A must-visit for breakfast lovers, serving up hearty dishes like huevos rancheros and their famous omelets.

Bread and Ocean

Freshly baked bread, sandwiches, and pastries that are perfect for a picnic on the beach.

Offshore Grill & Coffee House

Upscale dining with locally sourced seafood and an excellent selection of Oregon wines.

 

Best Time to Visit

Manzanita is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for:

Summer (June–August): Warm weather, long sunny days, and the best time for beach activities.

Fall (September–November): Fewer crowds, crisp air, and stunning autumn colors.

Winter (December–February): Perfect for storm watching and cozying up in a beachfront cabin.

Spring (March–May): Wildflowers start to bloom, and whale-watching is at its peak.

 

Conclusion

Hiking Neahkahnie Mountain, paddling Nehalem Bay, and exploring Oswald West State Park, these activies offer some of the best ways to experience the natural beauty and adventure of Manzanita, Oregon. Whether you want a thrilling outdoor adventure or a peaceful day in nature, these spots showcase the magic of the Oregon Coast.

Map of Manzanita Oregon

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