North Coast
Nehalem, Oregon
Nehalem is the small town at the head of Nehalem Bay, a quiet community where the Nehalem River opens into the bay. It is authentic, unpolis...
Nehalem is the small town at the head of Nehalem Bay, a quiet community where the Nehalem River opens into the bay. It is authentic, unpolis...
~270
Population
Neah-Kah-Nie School District
School District
Tillamook County
County
$300K - $700K
Typical Home Price Range
North Coast
Coastal Region
The typical home price range for Nehalem is an estimate based on my recent local sales and buyer inquiries as of mid-October 2026, not an official statistic; population and other figures are approximate public estimates for the geography noted, not official statistics. Prices vary widely by location and property type. Geography: Nehalem, Oregon Coast. Data retrieved October 15, 2026.
Nehalem feels authentic and unhurried. It is a working bay town where the focus is on the water, the fish, and the tides. There is no pretense here, just genuine coastal living with the beauty of the bay at every turn.
Nehalem is the small town at the head of Nehalem Bay, a quiet community where the Nehalem River opens into the bay.
It is authentic, unpolished, and deeply connected to the rhythms of the river and bay.
The town has a handful of local businesses including a general store, a brewery, and a few antique shops.
The Nehalem River provides excellent fishing for salmon and steelhead, and the bay is known for crabbing and clamming.
The views from town look out over the tidal flats and forested hillsides that frame the bay.
Housing in Nehalem is notably more affordable than in Manzanita or Cannon Beach, making it an attractive option for buyers who want to be on the coast with access to the bay without the premium price tag.
About 90 minutes to Portland, 30 minutes to Tillamook, 10 minutes to Manzanita. Located at the head of Nehalem Bay where US 101 meets the Nehalem River.
Nehalem is served by the Neah-Kah-Nie School District. Enrollment, boundaries, and program details are published on the district's official website so you can evaluate the options for yourself. I am happy to share what I know about the area and point you to current district information.
School District: Neah-Kah-Nie School District
Nehalem Bay : crabbing, clamming, kayaking, and paddleboarding
Nehalem River : world-class salmon and steelhead fishing
Nehalem Bay Winery : local wines with views of the bay
Nehalem Falls : a swimming hole and waterfall upriver
Antique shopping in town
Nearby Manzanita for beach access and dining
Oswald West State Park hiking just minutes away
I refresh this list every week so you always know what is happening in Nehalem: farmers markets, festivals, live music, and the seasonal gatherings that make coastal life special. Dates and details can shift, so it always pays to confirm with the venue or host before you head out.
Fridays throughout fall | Lower Nehalem Community Trust preserves
Join neighbors in caring for the community forests and trails that make this valley special. Tools and guidance are provided, and it is a genuinely rewarding way to meet people.
October 1 to 31 | Participating restaurants and breweries from Astoria to Neskowin
The month-long celebration of coastal food and drink has the north coast's dining rooms going all in with seafood specials. October is the tastiest month on the calendar.
Events refreshed October 16, 2026. Dates, times, and details change, so confirm with the host or venue before you go. Know a gathering I should add for Nehalem? I would love to hear about it.
Nehalem offers a wonderful coastal dining experience shaped by the Pacific Ocean. Fresh seafood, local produce, and the warm hospitality of the Oregon Coast define the food scene here. Farmers markets, seafood markets, and local restaurants celebrate the bounty of the coast.
Nehalem is blessed with incredible natural beauty. The Oregon Coast is famous for its wide, dog-friendly beaches where leashed pups can run and explore. Here are some of the favorite outdoor spots:
Nehalem Bay State Park (camping, trails, kayak launch)
Nehalem River access points (fishing and swimming)
Wheeler Marina nearby
Oswald West State Park (2,500 acres)
Most beaches on the Oregon Coast welcome leashed dogs, making it a paradise for pet owners. Many of the parks and trails in and around Nehalem are also dog-friendly. The coastal trails through state parks offer stunning views and are perfect for hiking with your four-legged companion. Be sure to bring water, poop bags, and a leash, and check local signs for any seasonal restrictions on specific beach areas.
From the headland trails at nearby state parks to the coastal forest paths, Nehalem offers hiking for every level. Many trails are suitable for leashed dogs and mountain biking, with stunning viewpoints along the way.
The wide, sandy beaches near Nehalem are ideal for running and playing with your dog. In addition to beach access, there are local parks and green spaces where the community gathers with their pets. Always follow local leash laws to keep everyone safe.
Confirm court availability and hours with the city or facility before heading out. Here are the places to play in and near Nehalem:
North County Recreation District Pickleball Courts: 36090 8th St,downtown Nehalem. Four outdoor courts. Free, no fees or reservations. Not lighted, so plan for daytime play.
Nehalem offers authentic bay living with excellent fishing and crabbing at some of the most affordable prices on the north coast. For buyers who want the real working coast, Nehalem is a wonderful find.
From seasonal festivals and farmers markets to activities for all ages and local businesses worth visiting, there is always something happening in Nehalem. Check out my full community guide for everything you need to know about living the coastal life here.
Read the Nehalem Community GuideBrowse available homes in Nehalem and across the Oregon Coast. Search directly by price, location, and features.
Open the full interactive map search to browse current listings in Nehalem and across the Oregon Coast, with filters for price, location, and features.
Search Oregon HomesI know the coast from Cannon Beach to Florence: the schools, the commute patterns, the best beaches, and what makes each town special. Whether you are looking for a vacation retreat or a year-round home, I will make sure you have calm, honest, personal guidance at every step.
I serve the entire Oregon Coast and know the unique considerations for coastal properties: from flood zones to vacation rental regulations.
My background in public service means I stay level-headed through every step of buying or selling. No pressure, just guidance.
Coastal property searches often happen on weekends or evenings. I work around your hours: whenever you can get away to the coast, I am ready.
I would love to help you find the perfect home on the Oregon Coast. Let us start the conversation.