Summer has hit full force in most of Oregon this week, with temperatures in my hometown climbing above 100; and even Portland, up north, is sweltering in the 90s. Happily for us, we will be spending much of this next week at the Oregon Coast, where we’ll enjoy sunny, breezy days with temps in the upper 60s.

This weekend we’re staying in the small northern coastal town of Manzanita, 25 miles south of the larger, busier, more touristy communities of Cannon Beach and Seaside. I’ve only passed through here in the past, so I’m looking forward to exploring it further this weekend, along with my daughter, Jenny, and her husband, Josh, and his folks visiting from Indiana.

Arriving yesterday late in the afternoon, we checked out our charming Airbnb rental right off the main drag and just half a block from the summertime farmers market, held every Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. We were eager to check out the vendors and enjoy the live musical performances and find some goodies to incorporate into our weekend menus. I was immediately impressed with the size of the market, the number of patrons it attracted and the quality and variety of products and services found there.

Fresh fruit    and produce   could be found at several booths, but one could also purchase local honeys,  jams, fruit syrups and lavender. No big surprise: You could buy smoked salmon,   fresh oysters and fish,  too, or get some “turf” to go with the “surf” with local, organic beef. For those who’d just arrived for a relaxing weekend, they could buy made-to-order fish tacos, hot dogs, pizza and delectable baked goods and not worry about cooking dinner after a long drive. This part of the coast has long been known for its dairy products, and there were a few cheese vendors selling their wares (and offering generous samples, too).   For liquid refreshment, local coffee roasters, a distiller  and a few breweries and wineries offered tastes and bottles and bags to take home (or enjoy on the beach at sunset).

Beyond the edible commodities, crafters offered jewelry, beautifully carved wooden bowls, candles and soaps. Furthermore, you could get a quick massage, have your palm read or purchase healing crystals after a consultation. All that while being entertained from the small performance stage. 

We found this visit (and several tastings and purchases) provided an excellent start to what I’m quite sure will be a fun and relaxing (and blessedly cool) weekend at the beach.

— Patty Vanikiotis, associate editor/copy editor