7 of the Most Charming Towns in The Pacific Northwest
The allure of the Pacific Northwest, which brought the gifts of nature to the natives and opportunities for the explorers, fur traders, and pioneers, keeps delighting travelers seeking relaxation or adventure. Gold Beach is nestled at the entrance of the majestic Rogue River into the Pacific, while Chelan and Sandpoint are very different popular towns in Washington and Idaho, respectively.
From scenic coastal strolls with marine life like sea lions and species of whales to kayaking the inlets and coves of the bay, Coos Bay's maritime and natural history is unlike any other. Framed by small towns and resorts, Long Beach, between the bottomless Pacific Ocean and the vast Willapa Bay, is famed for its continuous stretches of sandy beach.
Astoria, Oregon
Astoria, a fine slice of northern Oregon on the Columbia River, has long captured hearts with its scenery. Luring new faces who heard the rumors of the town amidst towering trees and its 1926 Astoria Column, no wonder—it is the perfect, scenically loaded weekend getaway. Climb the heights of this historic landmark to the 126-foot overlook for a rewarding panorama of Astoria and the Columbia River, all the while admiring the historic pictograph deco.
The renowned Cathedral Tree is impressively 300 years old, with nearby trails and more of the great outdoor hikes through the lush nature surrounding the river biome. It is just 19 minutes from spectacular Fort Stevens State Park to the west, while Fern Hill Glass Studio is a charming gallery and workshop on the outskirts. Don't miss the sunset views of the longest continuous truss bridge in North America, the Astoria-Megler Bridge, open to traffic but only to pedestrians during a 1-day event in the fall.
Chelan, Washington
Three hours from Seattle, it is well worth the drive to this cute lakeside town with charming pursuits all along the eponymous lake. Attracting an astounding two million visitors on an annual basis, the sparkling, rich blue waters of the glacial lake in a lush embrace take the crown of the geologically rich area—an authentically pristine sliver of the PNW. At nearly 1,500 feet in depth, Lake Chelan, the third-deepest lake in the US, was carved 10,000 years ago by massive glaciers during the last Ice Age. Chelan Riverwalk Park downtown offers trails and picnic areas overlooking the surrounding mountains, while the 1901 Campbell’s Resort features stunning guest rooms and private beach access.
Filled with glacier meltwaters and rain, the 50-mile-long lake of amazing clarity is fun to explore along the deep U-shape via jet skiing, paddle boarding, tubing, or canoeing. From swimming in the summer and lounging along the uncrowded banks to a hike and a photo shoot in a frame of nature, follow the wine trail along the shoreline through the Lake Chelan Valley, with over 30 wineries nearby. Among the best are Benson Vineyards Estate Winery, Lake Chelan Winery, and Tsillan Cellars, while the watery, agriculturally rich area lends itself to dining galore. Chelan’s historic downtown waterfront charms with modern attractions in brick-and-mortar buildings, including Lake Life Chelan, Lake Chelan Sports, and Stormy Mountain Brewing, with its motto “Beer. BBQ. Friends. Beer.”
Coos Bay
A can’t-miss town for the adventurous, Coos Bay is that rugged shoreline in your mind's eye when you picture the perfect PNW coast. Nestled right against the sea in the embrace of Cape Arago State Park and Shore Acres State Park, it is a playground for wet and dry pursuits full of wildlife. In the heart of town, Mingus Park features a charming red bridge along the waterside trails, lined with canopies, as well as a playground, an outdoor pool, and a Japanese garden. The Coos History Museum offers insights into the town's past through various exhibits, displays, and artifacts.
From scenic coastal strolls with marine life like sea lions and species of whales to kayaking the inlets and coves of the bay, you'll find maritime and natural history unlike any other. The iconic boardwalk juts out into the ocean just outside the downtown area—a perfect place for strolls between the many scenic picnic areas. Pancake Mill Restaurant & Pie Shoppe is a must-hit the next day for breakfast, and Vinny's Smokin' Good Burgers & Sandwiches is all in its name. You will be surprised at how much you can find at Cascade Farm and Outdoor, including gifts and home decor.
Gold Beach, Oregon
Nestled at the entrance of the majestic Rogue River into the Pacific, this idyllic coastal community near the border with the Golden State is full of its own sunny vibes. Home to only 2,200—the county seat—offers a strategically scenic location at the heart of America’s Wild River Coast for your daily prowls and adventures. Whether navigating the exhilarating rapids of the western section of the Wild and Scenic River or taking riverside strolls, the stunning scenery meets small-town charm. Do not miss the informative Gold Beach Visitor's Center for guidance.
Jerry’s Rogue Jets is a popular and fun way to explore the waters, while Kissing Rock is just south. This legendary roadside formation is framed by the picturesque beach, other boulders, and perennial grass. Barnacle Bistro serves seafood and other joint foods over an ample tap list. From the Rogue Outdoor Store to Mary D. Hume, a historic landmark, start south at First Chapter Coffee House over a bite and java and venture north.
Long Beach, Washington
Greeting visitors with a sign that reads "Welcome to the World's Longest Beach," which may not be entirely true, this small town on the Long Beach Peninsula is, in fact, located along the world's longest peninsular beach. Bold Coffee Art & Framing is a great place to start each morning in a picturesque way, while Dylan’s Cottage Bakery & Delicatessen offers a picnic-worthy selection for a day's worth of exploring or lounging at the beach. Home to the Basalt Monolith and the Long Beach Boardwalk, the beach extends into the dunes for adventurous walks, hikes, and bike rides.
Nearby, the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, which has guided sailors around the Columbia River bar since the mid-19th century, is one of the PNW's oldest, while Deadman's Cove, a secluded beach framed by cliffs and forests, is just a quick hike away. Alternatively, the World Kite Museum & Hall-Fame is a must-visit for unique sights and the opportunity to craft your own kite to fly along the beach or bring back as a souvenir for friends. The annual Washington State International Kite Festival draws families and enthusiasts from all over for a colorful spectacle or to participate in kite-flying competitions.
Sandpoint, Idaho
Sandpoint is one of the state's most popular destinations along the Idaho Panhandle, just 60 miles from Canada. Offering an idyllic small-town feel on the vast shore of the state's largest lake, Lake Pend Oreille, it is also the 38th largest in the US. Named for a French blend of words for “pendant” and “ear"—the lake's shape—visitors can explore the earlobe-like waters in a vessel of their choice, with rentals available in town. Offering over 200 trails within an hour of town, Gold Hill Trail is popular for hiking and mountain biking, while the family-friendly Mineral Point Interpretive Trail follows the impressive lake's edge.
Don't miss Laughing Dog Brewing to unwind with a cold one after a hot day of hiking the strenuous 3.5-mile-long Mickinnick Trail to over 2,000 feet above sea level. Sandpoint, an ideal lakeside town for those seeking relaxation or adventure in every season, flaunts the nearby Schweitzer Mountain Resort. With 2,900 acres of remarkable terrain, Schweitzer shadows the town from what is allegedly the PNW's best ski hill, delighting visitors with top views, including three states, Canada, and Lake Pend Oreille. The lively après-ski scene includes coffee houses, breweries, and wineries, like MickDuff’s Brewing Company and the Pend d’Oreille Winery.
Sequim, Washington
Sequim, a small seaside town along the Salish Sea, reflects an idyll overlooking the beautiful San Juans and the Olympic National Park at its backdoor. Attracting visitors from all over, this scenic corner with fortuitous geography is one big sensory attraction. Home to lavender fields and farms, visitors enjoy strolls through the rows of the colorful Purple Haze Lavender Farm, which offers flower picking, picnic tables, a gift shop, and an ice cream stand. Nearby, Carrie Blake Park is a cozy green space with playgrounds, trails, a picnic shelter, and an off-leash dog park.
From John Wayne Marina, take a long oceanfront stroll along the sandy frontage of Sequim Bay State Park and basque in the calm views of the Pacific. Aside from the large natural attractions, Sequim's exuberant energy extends along the scented streets during the annual Sequim Lavender Festival in mid-July. In lieu of strain or prolonged hiking, the magic of Olympic National Park is accessible for every level of activity. Families enjoy a drive through the Olympic Game Farm, which is home to the region's bears and big cats.
From Oregon to Washington and Idaho, the rugged coastline, glacial lakes, and pristine mountain landscape are like a never-ending supply of inspiration for these towns with exuberant energy and charm.
Along the Columbia River, Astoria has long been luring with its scenery, towering trees, and the historic Astoria Column. Sequim, a spirited community overlooking the San Juans between the Salish Sea and Olympic National Park, is one big sensory attraction with its lavender fields and farms.
