8 Of The Most Captivating Small Towns In The Pacific Northwest
Over the past several decades, the picturesque Pacific Northwest (PNW) has become increasingly sought-after as both a destination for travelers and a home for those looking to settle down in a place that's a little different. With easy access from big cities, such as Seattle and Portland, it's time to get your hands on this captivating slice of the US.
One thing is certain: The PNW is absolutely perfect for a peaceful getaway with sights easy on the eyes, from the captivating Ruby Beach to Seaside to two immense lakefronts in Idaho. In addition to easy access and stunning surroundings, the welcoming towns cater to arts, entertainment, and culinary pleasures to keep you on your feet.
Let's explore eight of the most captivating small towns in the Pacific Northwest.
Astoria, Oregon
There's no atmosphere quite like Oregon’s oldest city, the first permanent US settlement west of the Rockies. Astoria, a historic fishing village at the mouth of the mighty Columbia, feels plucked from a storybook. Whether you're after the wilderness or the forts, museums, and local brews, no visit is ever complete without taking in the historic 1926 column, all 125 feet up to the observation deck. The picturesque port city with Victorian-era homes etched into the hills captivates thousands year-round.
Starting leisurely along Riverwalk Trail, work your way south to the iconic Richard Fencsak Cathedral Tree Trail, where the mighty Sitka spruce towers halfway along this shaded, groomed path. Finally, finish the race by the Astoria Column, with murals on Oregon history and captivating views in your palm. With hints of Scandinavian flavor, every angle and design provides a jarring contrast to the moody waters and forested surroundings, a stone’s throw from the Pacific.
Brookings, Oregon
Brookings, the state's best spot for sighting gray whales migrating south to Mexico, is equal parts charming and wild. Capella by the Sea is a captivating site along the Chetco River through the heart. This unique wood-&-stone chapel, built by film producer Elmo Williams, takes center stage at Azalea Park, known for its incredible playground, a bandshell, and sports facilities. Just north, Harris Beach State Park offers striking rock formations along the beach, birdwatching, and a campground with yurts.
The local Chetco Point Park juts out south of downtown on a peninsula with oceanfront trails and tide pools. While others explore the undeveloped beachfront, with viewing and picnic spots, Ocean kayaking might bring you face-to-face with the wildlife of the Pacific. Paddling through the estuary into the ocean for a close-up of pelicans, seals, and sea lions, the magnificent beasts are unforgettable as they cruise the horizon in early morning hours, particularly from December through March.
La Push, Washington
Boasting little more than a marina, a riverfront restaurant, and a popular resort — what La Push lacks in development, it makes up for in nature. In addition to a historic lodge and campsites nearby, La Push claims a string of desolate beaches and fame for whale migrations, including humpbacks, fin whales, and blue whales, with a springtime ceremony celebrating their annual return. Ruby Beach is an hour south to lay eyes on one of the nation's most private, scenic beaches or surf dramatic waves.
Home of the Quileute tribe, visitors enjoy off-the-beaten-path town prices right next to First Beach, a picturesque seashore, where driftwood and sea stacks make it recognizable among the fans of the popular Twilight film series. At the north end, the popular Whale Trail offers an ideal vantage for sighting gray whales and orcas. From April through May, hundreds of whales migrate just off the Olympic Coast, feeding through the bay thanks to the nutrient-rich sediments found here.
McCall, Idaho
This friendly resort town boasts the kind of natural beauty that is hard to come upon anywhere else in the Gem State. A gem in its own right, McCall is on the precipice of Ponderosa State Park with winter/water sports and campsites. One of the state's top draws, this lakeside wilderness juts into the lake with diverse hiking trails, like the popular Lily Marsh Trail. The tantalizing deep blue Payette Lake and the small town on the southern shore are a charismatic pair in Central Idaho.
Between the Legacy Park with a marina and Rotary Park at the river mouth, slice the tranquil surface with a rental or cruise deep into the blue. Downtown shines year-round with a family-friendly feel, local brews, and an underappreciated edge deep within the PNW. From hiking trails and mountain biking to skiing and sledding without leaving the limits — followed by food at My Father's Place, which turns out charbroiled burgers and ice cream sundaes in chill digs with retro flair and outdoor seating.
Port Townsend, Washington
Sprawling the banks of the Puget Sound, Port Townsend is an alluring blend of coastal Victorian vibes between the Salish Sea and Olympic Mountains, tipping off the Olympic Peninsula. Just two hours north of Olympia, or a ferry from Seattle, the town lures families and water sports enthusiasts to its far reaches, with kayaking, sailing, swimming, fishing, and crabbing at one of the waterfront parks. Fort Worden Historical State Park occupies the former military base along the shoreline, with camping.
Rent a cabin to access the park's 12 miles of hiking trails through forests and beachfronts like North Beach County Park, known for its scattered driftwood and amazing sunsets. The historic Point Wilson Lighthouse juts in all its 1879 glory on the waterway. Downtown is a compelling collection of buildings for photographers, architecture fans, and romantic walks, bouncing between gift shops and bookstores along Water Street, like the favorite William James Bookseller.
Sandpoint, Idaho
Sandpoint, one of the PNW's loveliest, peaceful corners of nature, captivates visitors with views of the Cabinet, Selkirk, and Bitterroot Mountains, lighting up in foliage along the northern shore of the state's largest lake. Many enjoy the nearby Mickinnick Trail Head 13, well maintained with little shade and great views, that takes up to four hours to reach the mountain top. Sandpoint City Beach Park is a picturesque, relaxed lakefront with a sandy beach and placid waters, ideal for swimming.
The deep blue hue of the hook-shaped Lake Pend Oreille enveloped by three ranges makes Sandpoint the best of both worlds. Whether you're in for skiing, hiking, or water adventures along the motorized lake, over a dozen good food joints, bars, and fairly priced hotels serve up local vibes and mountain flavor to recharge and kick up those tired feet. Schweitzer Shuttle Parking Lot connects you to the base for skiing/snowboarding at the resort.
Seaside, Oregon
Seaside is a captivating slice of the Oregon Coast at the mouth of the Necanicum River. Between the historic aquarium and scenic golf links, the grand promenade is lined with sea views and beaches. Seaside feels like a real reprieve north of the touristy Cannon Beach across the lush forested coastline of Ecola State Park. The seafront, home of the "End of Lewis & Clark National Historical Trail," is ideal for kite flying, sandcastle making, kayaking, swan boating, and sunset picnicking.
Painted Rock Beach lures travelers with unique rocks painted by others in memory of people or events. Pick up a smooth stone to add a personal touch to the culturally integrated landscape along the coast. The Tillamook Head North Trail juts into the ocean on a sea cliff within the state park. Whether you stick around for the views of the Haystack Rock or dive deeper into the unique rainforest, midtown awaits with seafood restaurants, coffee shops, and unique boutiques lining the riverfront.
Sisters, Oregon
Named after the peaks to the southwest, this quiet, artsy town is overlooked at the gateway to the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon. Enveloped by the Cascades, South Sister is a strenuous yet popular peak to conquer. The trail starts with a long forested stretch before reaching a sandy plateau where the steeper climbing begins. Total elevation gain is about 5,000 feet and is gained over about 5.5 miles to 6.5 miles to the summit.
Whether you're after the thrills of the Peterson Ridge bike trails or simple and scenic relaxation with views of Central Oregon's mountains, both are available here. The sister peaks are captivating against the pink sunrise or sunset. Visit for its foliage display to coincide with the upcoming Folk Festival every fall. Sisters really packs a culinary punch to recharge after adventures with a handful of laid-back, bar-and-grill-style establishments, including Mexican and Nepalese dishes.
The PNW is high on the bucket list among globetrotters to experience the true diversity of the US wilderness in just one magical corner of the country. It is time to get yours. From staggeringly beautiful nature to soulful towns, there's something captivating for everyone, like sunsets and soaring peaks. Keeping in mind the wicked awesome scenery, the PNW lures travelers with awesome mountain peaks, whale-watching experiences, and more.
