Manzanita FAQs

What type of clothing should I bring on my Oregon coast vacation?

Layers! During the summer bring shorts and light shirts along but also a windbreaker or raincoat. The fall will be cooler in the evening, so bring a coat or sweater. In the winter you will want warm clothes and a warm winter coat. A raincoat is good to have in any season. Umbrellas are not recommended along the coast because of the strong winds.

Is there really buried treasure on Neahkahnie Mountain?

It’s said that in the 1600s Spanish explorers buried treasure either on the slopes or at the foot of Neahkahnie Mountain, which is north of Manzanita in Oswald West State Park. The lost treasure has been the subject of many searches and even a movie called Tillamook Treasure. Digging for treasure, however, is now prohibited by the Oregon Parks Service.

Can I camp directly on the beach in Manzanita?

Beach camping is prohibited in the Manzanita town limits. Check into Nehalem Bay State Park for camping opportunities very close to the beach.

What is a sneaker wave?

A sneaker wave is a large wave that appears without warning, often surging up high on the beach with deadly force. Some people liken them to mini-tsunamis. Sneaker waves are a real threat on the coast, so never turn your back on the ocean and never fall asleep close to the high tide line on the beach. Keep children close to you at all times. Avoid climbing on exposed rocks, jetties and headlands during times of strong wave action.