A riverside town with a creative community
Nehalem is a compact riverside town just inland from Manzanita. Its walkable center, historic buildings, locally owned restaurants, art, community events, and access to the Nehalem River give it a welcoming, lived-in feel.
The community is close enough to Manzanita for residents to reach the beach and shops within minutes, but it has its own identity and is less centered on vacation tourism. Buyers may find cottages, traditional homes, river-adjacent properties, acreage, and homes in the surrounding rural areas.
Things to do
Nehalem River
The river is central to the community and supports kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Nehalem H Street Dock
The public dock provides access to the river and is a convenient place to launch a small watercraft or enjoy the waterfront.
North County Recreation District
Located in the former Nehalem school complex, the district provides recreation, fitness, classes, performances, community programming, and an indoor pool.
Nehalem Bay Winery
Located outside the downtown area, Nehalem Bay Winery offers tastings, events, and a relaxed rural setting. It is regularly identified as one of the area’s notable attractions.
Nehalem Bay State Park
Although closely associated with Manzanita, the park is part of the wider Nehalem Bay lifestyle. It offers camping, yurts, trails, beach access, fishing, crabbing, horseback riding facilities, and access to the bay.
Nehalem City Park and local events
Community gatherings, markets, performances, and civic events help give Nehalem its close-knit character.
Restaurants and coffee
Wanda's Café + Bakery
Wanda’s is one of the best-known breakfast and bakery destinations in North Tillamook County, serving hearty breakfast and lunch dishes along with baked goods. It is frequently recommended by regional travel sources.
Riverside Fish & Chips
A casual riverside stop known for fish and chips and outdoor seating.
North Fork Potato Company
A food truck offering an assortment of loaded baked potatoes.
Bayway Tavern
A longstanding local tavern in the Nehalem area offering casual food and drinks.
Buttercup Ice Creams & Chowders
A small local business known for handmade ice cream and seasonal chowders.
Shopping and local businesses
Wild Coast Goods
Wild Coast Goods showcases work from local and regional makers, including art, photography, jewelry, home goods, and gifts. The store has featured products from more than 50 makers.
Nehalem also supports small galleries, wellness businesses, food producers, professional services, and independent shops concentrated within a walkable downtown.
What it is like to live here
Nehalem may appeal to buyers seeking:
- A real year-round community
- Walkability and historic character
- River access
- A creative, community-oriented atmosphere
- Proximity to Manzanita and the beach
- Access to rural and acreage properties
- A quieter environment than an oceanfront tourist town
Explore Nehalem
A closer look at Nehalem’s riverside charm, local businesses, and welcoming community atmosphere.
Contact
Tatum Jimenez, REALTOR®
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northwest Real Estate
Office
406 Garibaldi Ave.
Garibaldi, OR 97118
License
#201257277
Office License
#201210652
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