8 Prettiest Downtown Strips On The Pacific Coast
The Pacific Coast has a diverse topography, encompassing the states of Washington, Oregon, and California. The scenic region is renowned for its stunning ocean views, charming mountain towns, and a diverse range of activities. Many small coastal towns make up the landscape, and the eight stand out for their lovely downtown strips, which are just as worthy of a visit as the natural attractions.
Many of the downtown districts are compact and walkable, filled with friendly merchants, quaint diners, and shops. Others feature historical sites and cultural finds in museums and art galleries. The diverse range of venues and live activities adds to the beauty of the architecture and atmosphere that make these areas so unique. Here are the eight prettiest downtown strips on the Pacific Coast.
Florence, Oregon
Florence is a picturesque town located at the mouth of the Siuslaw River near the Pacific Ocean. Its downtown district, called Historic Old Town Florence, is known for its elevated shops and dining options. Grab a map from the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum and embark on a self-guided walking tour of the many historical sites. The Second Saturday Art Walk is another fantastic walking tour that highlights the charms of Florence and will fill your Passport to the Arts with stamps.
Another way to experience the area is by exploring the Florence Charm Trail, which can be found with a map from the Florence Visitors Center. Bay Street runs along the river and terminates at rustic docks and the Port of Siuslaw, offering a glimpse into the significance of this port. Another prime opportunity to appreciate the coastal significance is to watch the many boats sail in and out of port under the Siuslaw River Bridge, one of the area's many attractions.
Bandon, Oregon
Bandon is on the mouth of the Coquille River and is named for the town of the same name in Ireland. It is known for its walkable beaches, quaint scenery, and Old Town, the de facto downtown district. Old Town comprises ten blocks of quaint storefronts filled with curated delights, restaurants, and unique finds that run parallel to the river, adding to its appeal. Venues include Devon's Boutique, Bandon Baking Company, and Warehouse Coffee Cafe.
Visitors who cannot get enough of Old Town can book a room at the Bandon Inn. The inn, located on a bluff, overlooks the district, the Coquille River, and the Pacific Ocean beyond. It provides an immersive experience that allows you to enjoy the best that Bandon has to offer.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Stunning Cannon Beach is renowned for its expansive shoreline and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Nature lovers enjoy watching the majestic Haystack Rock jutting out of the ocean, which is a favorite home for many tufted puffins. It also features a charming downtown area with a sidewalk separating midtown from downtown along Hemlock Street.
Strolling down this popular drag leads visitors down stately streets and homes, part of Cannon Beach's allure. Hemlock Street is home to many unique venues, such as Bruce's Candy Kitchen, and connects to Sandpiper Square, Village Centre, and Cannon Beach Mall. There are also manicured gardens along the path, one of the reasons this beach town is so popular.
Cambria, California
The seaside village of Cambria, along with its bluffs overlooking the ocean and a cozy downtown area, should be seen by anyone visiting the Pacific Coast. The area centers around Main Street, where visitors can discover Antiques on Main, Among Friends Boutique, and galleries like Bronze, Silver, and Gold. As you walk through town, you will encounter numerous seaside homes along the route, seamlessly blending in with the natural and commercial views.
Gourmands and oenophiles will fall in love with the downtown area, which is filled with tasting rooms and a diverse array of eateries. Black Hand Cellars offers red wine and stories about its speakeasy decor and the local region. Cafe Cambria is an elegant spot for a quick bite for lunch and dinner, allowing visitors to continue exploring the district. Meanwhile, Cambria Pines Lodge and Restaurant offers cozy couches and an atmosphere perfect for an extended stay.
Claremont, California
Claremont Village is the historic district of Claremont, California. The European-inspired area features over 150 shops, galleries, restaurants, and other outlets. Landmark venues include Rhino Records, Some Crust Bakery, and Heirloom and Amelie. The district also has a traditional aesthetic, primarily characterized by brick, similar to the landmark corner Verbal Building, which features striped awnings over each window.
The village has plenty of activities to keep you occupied during an extended stay at the boutique Casa 425. The Spanish-style hotel is in the heart of the downtown area, featuring luxury rooms and a manicured garden and courtyard. Claremont has a sophisticated feel that is deeply connected to its history, and this is evident when strolling through the village. Be sure to walk past the prestigious Claremont Colleges, with their original buildings dating back to the late 1800s.
Gig Harbor, Washington
Picturesque Gig Harbor is steeped in maritime history and renowned for its stunning waterfront views and breathtaking vistas of Mount Rainier. It also has a historic and walkable downtown with shops like Tickled Pink and Direction Apparel. The coastal village's history can be studied at the Harbor History Museum. The museum features many exhibits and programs that interpret the region's rich maritime past.
Gig Harbor is an excellent weekend retreat, and, unsurprisingly, it features numerous waterfront dining options. Net Shed No. 9 is a casual breakfast spot housed in a historic building. Tide's Tavern is one of the harbor's oldest restaurants, offering excellent burgers, a diverse selection of beers, and a rich local history. This storied town is among the best to visit in the state and has one of the prettiest downtown strips on the coast.
Long Beach, Washington
You know you are in Long Beach when you pass under the archways proclaiming "World's Longest Beach," one of the main reasons people visit. However, it also boasts a fantastic downtown strip with a laid-back attitude and eccentric sights, such as the World's Largest Frying Pan. The 20-foot-tall pan on Pacific Avenue is a massive landmark and was once employed to make a clam fritter using 200 pounds of clams.
A unique aspect of the district is its proximity to the beach and the boardwalk, which leads to a two-mile stretch of sand that is illuminated at night. Pacific Avenue is also home to many restaurants, such as the Sandbar and Lost Roo, after your photo opportunity at the 20-foot frying pan. This area is among the most picturesque on the coast, thanks to its natural surroundings and quirky attractions that combine to make it an unbeatable place to visit.
Port Townsend, Washington
Water Street is the main artery of Port Townsend's downtown district, surrounded by cozy architecture and spectacular views. The Victorian seaport boasts numerous attractions celebrating its seafaring heritage, including the Northwest Maritime Center on Water Street. The public is encouraged to walk through the Wooden Boat Foundation to get a sense of why this village is so vital to the maritime industry.
Curated gift shops are popular here, featuring stores like Deja Vu and Summer House Design, which offer unconventional gifts. Vintage lovers should not miss Thuja, and bookworms must check out William James Bookseller for rare and out-of-print books. For those seeking a refined dining experience, Finistère serves lamb tartare, local oysters, and other delicacies.
Finishing Thoughts
The Pacific Coast is a paradise for beachgoers and those seeking quaint locations with small-town charm. These eight towns are among the best to visit along the Pacific because of their friendly communities, amenities, and historical sites. The coastal atmosphere is more than just an alluring appeal to residents; it is often the financial core of the town, evidenced by historic ports like the one in Florence, Oregon. Downtown districts are often the best place to get to know a community, and these Pacific Coast locations are no different. Visiting local coffee shops and museums allows visitors to delve into the region's essence in a fun and accessible way, making these the best downtown strips along the coast.
