A Charming Coastal Escape
Nestled along the Oregon coast, Neskowin is a small beach town that exudes charm and tranquility. Known for its sweeping ocean views, picturesque rock formations, and the soothing sound of waves, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, this serene environment also means that the town has limited options for entertainment and dining.
Located approximately two hours from Portland, Neskowin is home to around 200 residents. The town is dotted with quaint cottages and beach houses, creating a cozy atmosphere that appeals to those seeking relaxation. Its main attraction is the four-mile-long beach stretching from Cascade Head to Nestucca Bay, offering stunning scenery and a variety of outdoor activities.
Despite its natural beauty, Neskowin lacks the vibrant nightlife and diverse restaurant scene found in larger towns. Visitors often find themselves cooking meals at home, as there are only two local dining options. Café on Hawk Creek provides wood-fired pizza, seafood, sandwiches, and small bites, while also featuring an ice cream stand called The Village Scoop. Neskowin Provisions serves as a convenience store offering sandwiches, breakfast burritos, coffee, and baked goods.
For those willing to travel a bit further, Pacific City is just a fifteen-minute drive away, where visitors can enjoy Pelican Brewing, Grateful Bread Bakery, and Sportsman's Pub-n-Grub. Twenty minutes from Neskowin, Lincoln City offers additional dining choices such as Kyllo's seafood restaurant, The Pines Dine food truck, and Thai Bay for a taste of Thai cuisine.
Accommodation in Neskowin is limited, with most lodging units and beach houses being individually owned. To secure a place to stay, vacationers often need to book through companies like Grey Fox Vacation Rentals, which manages units at The Chelan and Neskowin Resort, or Meridith Lodging for cottages at The Breakers and Proposal Rock Inn.
Indoor entertainment options are minimal, with only one stop for art enthusiasts: Hawk Creek Gallery. Established in 1978, this gallery showcases works by local painter Michael Schlicting, who often visits during the summer to interact with visitors.
For those looking to completely disconnect from urban life, Neskowin is an ideal destination. Cascade Head, a vast 102,110-acre area, offers hiking trails that provide breathtaking ocean views, including a popular 6.6-mile hike from Knights Park. The beach is also home to Proposal Rock, a sea stack wildlife refuge adorned with trees that juts out from the ocean.
Another unique feature of Neskowin is the Neskowin Beach Golf Course, a nine-hole course that opened in 1932. Additionally, the Neskowin Ghost Forest, believed to have been formed in the 1700s by an earthquake that submerged a forest of Sitka Spruces, is a haunting attraction. The stumps emerge from the sand on the south side of Neskowin Creek, becoming visible after severe winter storms in the late 90s.
Intended as a family-friendly town, Neskowin’s small population ensures slow traffic and a peaceful environment, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil escape.