Manzanita Beach, also known as Neahkahnie Beach, sits along the coastal town of Manzanita. The shoreline curves along the base of Neahkahnie Mountain and stretches south toward Nehalem Beach and the mouth of the Nehalem River.

The northern end is sheltered by the 1,700-foot Neahkahnie Mountain—one of the highest points on the Oregon Coast. Farther north, the forested 300-foot Cape Falcon ridge juts into the ocean and is visible from the beach on clear days. Both Neahkahnie Mountain and Cape Falcon are part of the scenic coastal forest of Oswald West State Park.

This broad, five-mile stretch of firm white sand and dunes is popular with beachgoers yet rarely feels crowded.

The southern end near Nehalem Bay State Park is especially peaceful.

It’s a great place to enjoy sweeping views and try activities such as beachcombing, fat-tire biking, surfing, kite surfing, and horseback riding.

The nearby towns of Manzanita and Nehalem offer restaurants, bars, and shops worth exploring.

Multiple access points lead to the beach, including state parks and roadside pullouts. Ocean Road runs along the shore for about half a mile and has several parking spots.

Nehalem Bay State Park requires a day-use fee, while other parking areas are free. If using street parking, be mindful of private driveways and local businesses.

Neahkahnie Mountain

Neahkahnie Mountain is a destination of its own. This basalt monolith was formed by Miocene lava flows and is considered sacred in Native American tradition.

It is also known for its famous treasure legend. According to the story, Spanish sailors hid a chest of gold and gems here in the late 1500s.

After lowering it into a pit, one sailor killed an African slave and placed the body over the treasure so Native Americans would leave the site undisturbed.

Today, Neahkahnie Mountain is a fantastic spot for hiking and nature viewing.

Trails lead through lush coastal vegetation, and the summit offers panoramic views of the ocean and nearby beaches.

Hiking and Biking

Beyond beach walks and fat-tire biking, Nehalem Bay State Park has a network of trails, including a 1.8-mile hiking/biking loop through classic Pacific Northwest scenery filled with diverse flora and fauna.

Nature Viewing

Neahkahnie Beach, the surrounding state parks, and Neahkahnie Mountain support abundant wildlife.

You can spot seabirds such as puffins, black oystercatchers, cormorants, and gulls. The mountain itself hosts a rich mix of birds, small mammals, and other coastal creatures.

Beachcombing and Rockhounding

The long shoreline offers a great area for beachcombing. Expect sand dollars, shells, sea glass, driftwood, and other ocean-washed finds.

Because this is primarily a sandy beach, rockhounding isn’t as productive, but after winter storms you may find agates and other collectible stones.

Fishing, clamming, and crabbing

Nehalem Bay is a productive spot for clamming, crabbing, and fishing. You can catch redtail surfperch and dig for clams right from the beach, while ocean fishing requires heading offshore. Boat rentals are available at marinas on the bay’s inland side.

The northern edge of the beach is a part of Cape Falcon Marine Reserve and Marine Protected Area. Therefore, fishing and removing any invertebrates, seaweeds, or wildlife are prohibited. To find out more check Oregon Marine Reserves Harvest Restrictions.