6 Most Inviting Towns in The Pacific Northwest
The Washington State Department of Commerce reported increasing tourism numbers to the Pacific Northwest in recent years, which should not surprise those familiar with this region’s beauty. Nestled along the rugged Pacific coastline, cozy towns overlook the seaside and welcome visitors with their intriguing maritime history, delectable seafood, and array of outdoor adventures. From the quaint waters of Gig Harbor to the waterfront restaurants of Cannon Beach, each destination allows travelers to relax and partake in memory-filled adventures simultaneously. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an exhilarating seaside escape, these coastal gems have something special in store for every traveler.
Gig Harbor, Washington
Gig Harbor is the perfect place to escape the city and relax by the sea, boasting a gorgeous walkable waterfront and fascinating marine history. Visitors have abundant recreational activities available, including kayaking and boating near the harbor, waterfront dining, shopping, and more. For those who want to learn about the town’s history while enjoying the ocean breeze, waterfront walking tours are available in the summer, where tourists can experience Gig Harbor’s tales of old.
Popular among both tourists and locals is Netshed No.9, a delicious breakfast restaurant hosted in a historic building on the waterfront. A variety of breweries dot the city as well, such as 7 Seas Brewing, which boasts a prime downtown location. While static attractions are available year-round, one of the best times to visit Gig Harbor is during the annual Gig Harbor Maritime Festival in June. This community celebration is a world of fun, featuring art, food vendors, a car show, live music, and more.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach, with a population of around 1,500 people, is a cozy seaside village boasting breathtaking ocean views and biodiverse beaches. Visitors can enjoy luxurious lodging, such as the Tolovana Inn overlooking the sea, and dine in one of the town’s waterfront restaurants, such as Mo's Seafood & Chowder. The town also hosts a vibrant art scene, with over 15 art galleries to explore, and the annual Spring Unveiling Arts Festival every May, which celebrates local artists.
Haystack Rock, one of Oregon’s most well-known natural landmarks, towers over the beach nearby. During low tide, travelers can walk up to the rock formation and observe a multitude of tidepools, colorful seastars, and puffins. A mere 10 minutes south of Cannon Beach, tourists can take a trip to Oswald West State Park and appreciate an afternoon on one of its scenic hiking trails.
Crescent City, California
Just 20 miles south of Oregon lies Crescent City, a charming seaside town filled with history, good food, and natural wonders. Visitors will love meandering through the town’s shops and be surprised by hidden gems such as Rumiano’s Cheese Co., a historic shop in the state with a delicious variety of cheeses. For those interested in unique lodging options, the nearby Requa Inn is a historic building intertwined with maritime history. Further along, the charming lighthouse of Battery Point, built in 1856, offers panoramic, 360-degree views for those willing to venture to the top. The nearby trails along the Bluffs at Point St. George have stunning views of the town’s other lighthouse on St. George Reed Island. Meanwhile, families can opt for the Ocean World Aquarium, which has a wonderful variety of marine life on display.
Manzanita, Oregon
Tucked away between the mountains, striking cliffs, and the Pacific coast lies the small, calm village of Manzanita. The neighboring Nehalem Bay is an excellent spot to fish for trout and salmon as well as catch crabs and clams. Visitors can enjoy an afternoon strolling through the town’s unique boutiques, bookstores, and clothing shops or receive a massage at the Spa Manzanita. Manzanita also has a cozy winery where guests can sip wine in its quaint tasting room or around a warm fire pit. A short drive away will take travelers to Neahkahnie Mountain, where they can hike a trail loop to arrive at gorgeous views overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Friday Harbor, Washington
Friday Harbor is a charming, walkable seaport filled with history, art, delicious cuisine, and friendly shops. Visitors can start their trip by lodging at Friday Harbor House, a luxurious inn with scenic harbor views. There is a diverse array of charming shops around town, including tea and pottery shops, bookstores, antique stores, boutiques, and more. Recreationally, travelers can enjoy activities such as sailing around the San Juan Islands, kayaking and hiking tours, and biking along the coastline. May through September, visitors can go whale watching as well. After the outdoor fun, one can recharge with the abundant seafood in town, which travelers can enjoy at restaurants such as Friday’s Crabhouse, a casual grill with amazing views overlooking the harbor.
Long Beach, Washington
Long Beach sits at the perfect intersection between the Pacific Coastland and the northwest rainforest. Its proximity to Portland and Seattle makes it the perfect choice for a weekend getaway. Rich in fresh seafood, restaurants such as The Depot in the neighboring town of Seaview make for the perfect coastal dinner. Long Beach has a thriving art scene as well and welcomes a variety of art festivals, such as the annual Peninsula Quilt Guild Exhibition, monthly Ilwaco Art Walks, and annual Tokeland Wood and Art Fest, which all celebrate local artist talent.
Nature lovers will love the surrounding recreational activities, such as hiking along the picturesque Discovery Trail, horseback riding along the beach, or hiking in one of the three nearby state parks: Cape Disappointment State Park, Fort Columbia State Park, and Leadbetter Point State Park.
Final Thoughts
Although small in population, these Pacific Northwest towns are big in heart and excitedly await visitors with open arms, offering mouthwatering seafood, fascinating museums, tours, natural marvels, and plenty of places to shop. Whether it be a stroll along the Friday Harbor Seaport or a day at one of Long Beach’s Art Festivals, visitors are sure to leave with a plethora of long-lasting memories and a desire to return.
