Neahkahnie Mountain is the highest point of land along the pacific coastline between the Golden Gate Bridge in California and the Canadian border. The views from the top are breathtaking if the mountain is out of the clouds (just look to the North before you leave, if you can see the top of the mountain you will have a good view). Turn left from the cabins and go two blocks to the highway. Turn left at 101 and go 1.7 miles until you reach an unmarked gravel road on the right side of the highway. Follow this road until you reach a trailhead with an 8"x 8" marker sticking up from the ground. Park anywhere on the side of the road where there is room. The hike up takes about 40 minutes. Watch your step!

Short Sands Beach in Oswald West State Park is one of Oregon's most beautiful beach areas. It is just north of Manzanita. From the cabins turn left, then left again at Highway 101. Go across the mountain and look for the second parking lot on the right side of the road. There are two trails to the beach, one just North and one just South of this parking lot. The beach is only about .5 mile from where you park, but is on the other side of the road. This is a popular beach for surfers and sunbathers. A trail runs north from the beach, an easy hike.

Hug Point is just past Arch Cape after the tunnel. About 16 miles north of Manzanita. Go at low tide to experience the north side offering waterfalls, incredible rock formations, tide pools, caves, and the old, stagecoach trail.

The Nehalem River, Bay and Spit are significant places in the history of the Indian tribes that once lived here. To get there, turn right from the cabins and go through town to the second 4-way stop intersection in Manzanita (Carmel). Turn left at the stop. There will be signs to the golf course and Nehalem Bay State Park. Go until you get to the park grounds. Follow the signs to the Day Use Area. You will have to pay $5 to park. Park your car and go over the dunes to the beach. Look for a landmark or two to find the parking lot as you return later. Turn left and walk for a long hour or so. Eventually the Nehalem River will stop your journey. The adventurous can climb around on the rocks of the jetty and get good views of both the river and ocean. This is a very isolated, beautiful part of Manzanita beach. Follow the river inland for a ways and you may see seals sunning themselves beside the river. Keep an eye on the water around the jetty; you may see that the seals have spotted you first. There is a very large herd of elk that live in the spit area over the dunes from the ocean.

Go Kayaking! When the weather permits, outings on the calm Nehalem River make for a memorable visit. Pack a lunch, and head to Wheeler. You won't believe how beautiful it can be out there, just you and the kayak surrounded by nature. Canoes and Kayaks can be rented at the Wheeler Marina (4 miles south of Manzanita; 278 Marine Drive) phone (503)368-5780. Jim and Margie Neilson own and operate the Marina. They will assist you every step of the way, getting in and out, recommendations on excursions, it's very easy even for the beginner and an experience we highly recommend.  

Kelly's Brighton Marina is located on the majestic Nehalem Bay offering crabbing, fishing , boating , and fresh cooked seafood. Owners Kelly and Janice Laviolette create a warm, friendly, and fun atmosphere. 7.5 miles south of Manzanita. 29200 Hwy 101 N phone (503) 368-5745.

Jetty Fishery Marina has been operated by the Laviolette family for more than 32 years. Crabbing, fishing, tidepooling, boat rentals, and live seafood offerings, such as Dungeness crabs and fresh local oysters. They also offer prepared crab, oysterssteamers, and corn on the cob to feast on at their picnic tables- rustic, but yummy! 8.6 miles south of Manzanita 27550 Hwy 101 N phone (503) 368-5746.