40 VISITTHEOREGONCOAST.COM NORTH COAST TOWNS ASTORIA AND WARRENTON Situated at the mouth of the Columbia River, the cities of Astoria and Warrenton are steeped in maritime and natural history. For a bird’s-eye view of the river, mountains and sea, climb 164 steps to the top of the Astoria Column. After a visit to one of many breweries or restaurants downtown, take a stroll along the Astoria Riverwalk to admire the elegant span of the Astoria-Megler Bridge and the ships passing by. Beachcombing and bike riding are popular at Fort Stevens State Park, where visitors can pose for photos with the impressive 1906 Peter Iredale shipwreck still visible in the sand. GEARHART While it’s less than 3 miles (4.8 km) north of Seaside, quiet Gearhart feels worlds away. Cedar-shingled beach houses and miles of sand give the town a Cape Cod feel, with a handful of laid-back eateries and shops adding to the summer-at-the-shore vibe. Spring and fall bring hundreds of migrating birds to the Necanicum Estuary. Gearhart Golf Links, the oldest golf course west of the Mississippi, offers a pleasant 18 holes among seaside landscapes. Stay the night or explore several golf-themed pubs at McMenamins Gearhart Hotel, adjacent to the links. SEASIDE Seaside has long been a favorite destination as Oregon’s first beach-resort town. Stroll or bike the distinctive Promenade, built over 100 years ago, a paved path of 1.5 miles (2.4 km) with unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. Venture just a few blocks north on the Prom from the centerpiece Turnaround at the end of Broadway Street to the historic Seaside Aquarium, where you’ll find a touch tank of sea creatures and harbor seals that put on a spirited show for visitors. Or head up Broadway to find charming shops and restaurants, classic arcade games, bumper cars, and a vintage carousel. CANNON BEACH A hub for the arts, Cannon Beach has been named among “The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America” for its thriving gallery, theater and music scenes. Acclaimed restaurants, craft breweries and unique boutiques reflect that creative spirit. Each fall the Stormy Weather Arts Festival features art and performances. Exhibits at the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum include a Native American longhouse and the famed cannon that gave the town its name; it washed ashore in 1846 near Tillamook Head. Visit the 4-mile (6.4-km) stretch of beach for views of iconic Haystack Rock, a 235-foot (71.6-m) sea stack, as well as birds and other wildlife. MANZANITA A 7-mile (11.3-km) stretch of beach fronts Manzanita, a quiet and walkable coastal village. Laneda Avenue, which extends through downtown and right to the sand, is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. Pick up an Art Walk Guide to check out galleries in town, or go to an event at the Hoffman Center for the Arts. Check out Bahama Mama’s for surf gear or fun cycles and beach cruisers to ride right on the beach. North of town, explore Oswald West State Park, laced with hiking trails through conifer rainforests, or Short Sand Beach, popular with surfers and families. NEHALEM Year-round adventure awaits on the gentle Nehalem River. It flows through the small town of Nehalem, which features a stretch of cute shops and eateries. Anglers cast for spring and fall chinook or winter steelhead, while paddlers keep their eyes peeled for raptors, river otters and Roosevelt elk. Kayak in Nehalem Bay or along the river for fishing and sightseeing. At Nehalem Bay State Park (closed for upgrades until late 2025), you’ll find yurts, hiking trails, bike paths, and a horse camp with more than 10 miles (16 km) of beach and trail riding. ROBBIE MCCLARAN Bay City Kitchen
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