9 Things to Do in Manzanita, Oregon (+ Easy Day Trips)
Manzanita is one of those Oregon Coast towns that sneaks up on you—in the best way. It’s got a peaceful vibe, a ridiculously gorgeous beach, and easy access to some of the coast’s most stunning spots.
Whether you’re posted up here for a weekend or just rolling through, here are our favorite things to do in Manzanita (plus a few quick adventures just down the road).
Table of Contents
- 1. Stroll Through Manzanita Town
- 2. Spend Time on Manzanita Beach
- 3. Explore Neakahnie-Manzanita State Park
- 4. Bike or Hike in Nehalem Bay State Park
- 5. Hike the Cape Falcon Trail
- 6. Visit Hug Point State Recreation Site
- 7. Chill at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site
- 8. Day Trip to Cannon Beach
- 9. Explore Tillamook and the Three Capes Scenic Loop
1. Stroll Through Manzanita Town
This tiny town is the definition of charming without trying too hard. Walkable and welcoming, Manzanita has a few blocks of boutiques, galleries, delis, coffee shops, and beach gear stores.
We walked around snapping pics of cute storefronts, beachgoers grabbing snacks, and all the little details that give the town its low-key, artsy flavor. It’s not big, but that’s the point—you come here to slow down.
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2. Spend Time on Manzanita Beach
This is what you came for. Manzanita Beach is long, wide, and stunning, with soft cream-colored sand and epic views of Neahkahnie Mountain rising to the north.
It’s the kind of place where you’ll see kite surfers catching wind, dogs sprinting full-speed, and people flying kites or just walking for miles.
We watched a guy gliding on what looked like a wind-powered skateboard while others biked barefoot in the surf. It’s peaceful, open, and rarely feels crowded, even when it’s busy.
3. Explore Neakahnie-Manzanita State Park
Just north of town, this park hugs the edge of the cliffs and offers quick trails and coastal overlooks. It’s often overshadowed by bigger parks nearby, but it’s a great little stop for a scenic photo op or a brief forest stroll.
You’ll catch views looking back over the beach and maybe even spot some wildlife if you’re there early or late.
4. Bike or Hike in Nehalem Bay State Park
This is one of the best day-use parks near Manzanita and just a short drive (or bike ride) away.
Nehalem Bay State Park has a solid mix of things to do—camping, walking trails, a smooth paved bike path, beach access, and an estuary that’s great for birdwatching.
The vibe is super laid-back, and it’s easy to spend a lazy afternoon here with a picnic and a beach towel. This is also one of our favorite spots to camp in the area.
5. Hike the Cape Falcon Trail
If you’re ready to stretch your legs a little more, hit up Cape Falcon Trail in Oswald West State Park.
It’s about 4.6 miles round-trip, and the payoff is a cliffside view that makes you feel like you’re on the edge of the world.
The trail takes you through a classic coastal forest with mossy trees and glimpses of the ocean, ending at a dramatic viewpoint over Smuggler’s Cove.
It’s one of the best moderate hikes near Manzanita—and super photogenic. You’ll stroll past a beach I grew up going to, Short Sand Beach, and then head up for some great views!
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6. Visit Hug Point State Recreation Site
About 15 minutes north of town, Hug Point is one of those hidden-in-plain-sight spots with a bit of everything.
At low tide, you can walk around a rocky headland to find tidepools, sea caves, a small seasonal waterfall, and even remnants of an old wagon road carved into the cliffs.
It’s part beach, part time capsule, and 100% worth a visit—just check the tide charts before you go.
7. Chill at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site
If you’re headed north toward Cannon Beach but want to dodge the crowds, Arcadia Beach is a great stop.
We found easy parking, a peaceful stretch of beach, and some solid tidepool action with starfish and barnacles tucked between the rocks. It’s less developed, so bring what you need and enjoy the quiet.
Just be aware of tides if you wander past the rock outcroppings—some areas may get cut off as the water comes in.
8. Day Trip to Cannon Beach
You’re only 15–20 minutes away from one of the most iconic coastal spots in Oregon, so it’d be a miss not to stop in.
Cannon Beach is home to Haystack Rock, upscale eats, tons of shops, and visit Ecola State Park for epic hikes, and more stunning beaches.
READ MORE:
23 Adventurous Things to Do in Cannon Beach
11 Best Hotels in Cannon Beach, Oregon
9. Explore Tillamook and the Three Capes Scenic Loop
If you’re up for a longer drive, head south toward Tillamook and the Three Capes Scenic Loop.
You’ll hit cheese tastings at the Tillamook Creamery, beach stops at Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda, and plenty of spots for hiking or dune-sitting.
It’s a full-day trip if you want to do the whole loop, or you can just hit one or two capes and make it a shorter excursion.
READ MORE: 11 TOP Things to Do in Tillamook, Oregon
Manzanita may be smaller and quieter than its neighbors, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind—but still get out and explore if the mood strikes.
Whether you’re lounging on the beach, hiking into a forested headland, or just eating ice cream on a bench in town, Manzanita hits that perfect coastal balance.
