Here's my Cannabis Tour Guide to to this hidden gem on the legendary Oregon Coast!
About Manzanita Oregon
Welcome to Manzanita, a charming coastal town nestled on the Oregon Coast! If you're seeking a peaceful ocean getaway away from Portland, and want to avoid the bustling crowds of popular destinations like Cannon Beach and Seaside, then Manzanita is the perfect place. This hidden little town offers a laid-back atmosphere for you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Oregon coast. I'm here on Memorial Day weekend, so it's a little more bustling than usual, but the town's charm and hospitality remain as enchanting as ever.
Discovering Manzanita
It's been four long years since my last visit here. Still, Manzanita has always had a unique way of feeling instantly familiar, no matter how much time has passed, offering a sense of belonging that welcomes old friends and new visitors alike.
During my twenties, Manzanita held a special place for me, and I frequently travelled to and from this town. A cabin at the end of the road, rented by friends, was a hub for artists, musicians, and wanderers, a space where new connections and adventures were launched. Although the cabin is no longer standing, walking up the main strip reminded me of the wild parties, creativity, and music. Some of those folks still live here, and familiar faces can still be spotted working in the local cafes and shops.
Pictures of The Cabin in the summer of 2011.
Coastal Living
Manzanita boasts a picture-perfect shoreline, with miles of pristine sandy beaches and low dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see, perfect for any cannabis-infused exploration. The quaint downtown area is home to unique shops, local art galleries, and cozy cafes where you can find many delicious treats. Here, you'll find a friendly community that prides itself on preserving the town's beachside charm.
Aside from the cafes, there's a natural health shop, a local grocery store, and a fantastic Mexican restaurant. Remember to stop at the beachside convenience store that sells reasonably priced CBD beverages before you hit the beach!
Local Dispensary
Cannabis is recreationally legal in Oregon, so you must go shop Oregon Coast Cannabis. It is the best dispensary on the Oregon Coast. The aesthetic is stunning driftwood pieces and exotic plants. It is a meticulously curated shop that showcases an incredible array of locally grown indoor and outdoor flower. At this deli-style dispensary, you have the pleasure of exploring each jar, with their meticulous labels detailing every strain, ensuring you leave with precisely what you like. With an impressive selection of drinks, edibles, concentrates, and a fantastic bong wall, this dispensary is a cannabis lover's dream.
My visit to Oregon Coast Cannabis was an absolute delight. The diverse selection of flower left me in awe, and the friendly budtender, Jonathan, made the experience even more enjoyable. Oregon Coast Cannabis truly offers a fantastic dispensary experience, don't miss out on this treasure trove of curated cannabis when you visit Manzanita.
Low Budget Activities
Grab a coffee from Manzanita Espresso and News. It's an adorable cafe with cute outdoor seating and a fantastic little gift shop filled with crafts and handmade goods from local artists. Save your cup because refills are half-price. And for all the alt-milk drinkers out there, they don't charge extra for oat or almond milk.
The most free and fun activity is walking up and down the beach, looking for shells and driftwood! You can literally spend all day walking up and down this sandy beach. Plus, when the sun starts to set, you can have a fire! Right on the beach! There is lots of driftwood on the edge of the dunes. Dig a little hole and get a fire going! There's nothing better than a campfire in the sand!
Camping
Welcome to Oregon, where camping on the beach is legal!
If you plan to stay overnight in a tent or van, all overnight camping must be outside the city limits. It's about a 5-minute drive from downtown. Follow the main road along the beach, just past the hotel and houses, and you're in the free camping zone, my favourite place to stay. There is nothing more healing than waking up to the Pacific Ocean.
Me, in 2011, at The Edge of the World
The Smoking Spots
For the full description of the best locals-only spots in Manzanita, listen to the latest episode of The Smoking Spot, Blowing Smoke on the Shores of Manzanita. I talk about how to climb to The Edge of the World, where to find the best drinking water, and my favourite place to get high and wander around, Driftwood Bay.
Lighting one up in Driftwood Bay
What are you waiting for?
Less than a 90-minute scenic AF drive from Portland, Manzanita offers perfect views of the Pacific Ocean and a magical experience. Immerse yourself in the laid-back coastal vibe, smoke some Oregon-grown greenery, take in the breathtaking surroundings, and have an unforgettable experience in this hidden coastal town.