Joseph Pawlak, Author at Open Nest

Jul 29 2022

Spend Labor Day 2022 in Pacific City

Oh how we love summer and how sad we are when it comes to an end. Gone will be the long days that stretch out before us in an array of endless possibilities, vacations will have ended, and real life begins to intrude but as we grow closer to those final moments of the solstice, there is still one more last hurrah to look forward to. Labor Day weekend is just around the corner and now is the perfect time to start making your plans to visit Pacific City and your comfortably luxurious stay in our Open Nest holiday hideaways! Spend your days celebrating this weekend of wow and your evenings celebrating all that is beautiful about our special escapes! This guide to spending Labor Day with us will ensure that every moment of your stay will be your favorite!

Sunrise and Scrambled Eggs

Yes, the long weekend should be one filled with as much relaxation as your body can handle, but on at least one day, we suggest waking up to watch the sunrise. For those of you renting one of our oceanfront sanctuaries, slipping into a pair of comfy sweats and spending the pre-dawn moments with your toes buried in the sand will be an experience that will become your new obsession, but even if you aren’t as close to the beach as you would like, sitting out on the deck or balcony promises to be an equally delightful experience. Watching the sky cycle through all its colors, feeling the cool morning breezes kissing your cheeks, and then heading back to bed for a couple more hours of sleep will touch a place in your heart that you didn’t know needed the touch. Our early risers, however, may want to head over to Village Coffee Shop, 34910 Brooten Road in Cloverdale, for a hearty breakfast that will fill all the empty places in their stomachs. The compact cabin in which this charming diner is located adds a country appeal to the comfort foods served here! If you are looking for haute cuisine and modern décor, the Village Coffee Shop won’t be the place for you but if you prefer a spot where the wait staff is friendly, the coffee is strong, and the food tastes like what your grandma used to make for you, this may be your place for the duration of your stay!

A Day at the Beach

You have come all this way, of course you will want to spend as much time in the sand time as possible and the pristine beaches of Pacific City are where your best memories will be made! Our coastal town is off the beaten path, offering a peaceful serenity and a happy lack of raucous crowds, ensuring your beach day will be one that you will wish never had to end. Climb the heights of the sandy dunes of Cape Kiwanda and savor views that spread out for miles or stick close to the base and explore the tide pools filled with sea life at low tide with your favorite tiny travelers. Building sandcastles at water’s edge is another popular beach activity enjoyed with the littles, requiring nothing more than sand, water, and plastic buckets and shovels and the memories made in these quiet moments will be ones that take root, lingering in your children’s minds when they become adults with kids of their own and repeat the happy experiences!

Pelican Brewing Company, 33180 Cape Kiwanda Drive in Pacific City

Oregon is known for its craft beers and when you want to combine the beach and the beer, Pelican Pub and Brewery is the only place you will want to be! Offering patio seating with views of Haystack Rock (a view that may be familiar to any “Goonies” fans out there!) and an everchanging selection of frothy craft beers, spending a few hours here is one of our favorite ways to celebrate any day!

All the Comforts of Home

The magic of your Labor Day getaway begins and ends in our Open Nest holiday hideaways. Offering all the comforts of home blended with a sophisticated coastal décor, every moment here will be filled with luxury and style. Choose a bright and airy retreat with the ocean serving as its backyard and you will never have to leave the beach. The amenities in each of our Pacific City vacation rentals will vary from place to place, but the atmosphere of warmth and welcoming never changes. Enjoy a barbecue on the back deck, playing board games in our brightly lit dining rooms, or simply take a day to relax on overstuffed chairs as you lose yourself in the words on the pages of a summer blockbuster. The best parts of your Labor Day weekend celebration will be spent right here with us; reserve your favorite today!

Jul 01 2022

Make Your Way to Pacific City this 4th of July!

The 4th of July is just around the corner and for those who can’t wait embrace a beachfront holiday, heading to Pacific City, Oregon is a must! Between the sand, sun, access to recreation, and amazing flavors to be found, Pacific City is a destination where there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The following are just a few of the many activities and attractions to check out while you’re here that will have you packing your bag and getting ready for an unforgettable Independence Day adventure in no time.

Enjoy Time with Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides

Those who are traveling to scenic Pacific City, Oregon this 4th of July and are looking for a romantic way to see the sights won’t want to miss out on booking a beach ride through Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides. Located at 5985 Pacific Avenue, Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides is open daily from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm and offers weekend ride options at both 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. You don’t have to be an experienced equestrian to make the most of a stunning horseback ride on the beach when you partner with this company. The team here is happy to help riders of all levels get acquainted with the techniques they need to know and get comfortable in the saddle before setting out for their adventure. Your July ride will take you out towards the Pacific Ocean before turning around at Bob Straub State Park. Along the way, riders will enjoy watching the waves crash into the shoreline and opportunities to view sand dunes too. In total, the ride takes about an hour and places can be booked for $105 per rider.

Visit Cape Kiwanda

A trip to Pacific City over Independence Day is the perfect time to explore Cape Kiwanda. This is one of three that make up the greater Three Capes Scenic Route and it’s a destination where those looking to connect with nature this summer will find a long lineup of options! Cape Kiwanda is home to everything from sandstone cliffs and sand dunes, providing an intriguing backdrop for photographers of all types. Cape Kiwanda is also packed with hiking trails to explore when you’re looking to get out and make the most of the mid-summer weather, bird watch, or even whale spot if your timing is right! Looking to cool off when temperatures rise? Head over to the tide pools at low tide and dip your toes in. These pools are often found to be hosting everything from starfish to crabs. Beach lovers will find that the shoreline here is endlessly appealing but if you’re not into crowds, an early morning stop might be your best bet. Cape Kiwanda also offers up breathtaking views of Haystack Rock, Cape Lookout, and Nestucca Bay if you’re willing to trek to the top of the cape and take it all in at once. If you’re someone who loves to explore new places on two wheels, Cape Kiwanda is also an excellent spot to enjoy biking this Independence Day. While the Cape Kiwanda Fat Bike Route is always exciting to check out, bikes can easily maneuver the beaches in this area.

Test Your Skills Out on the Waves

If your idea of a fantastic holiday away includes as much time as possible on a surfboard, you’re in luck! Pacific City is an oasis of surfing fun and whether you’re trying it for the first time or you’re experienced, getting out on the water is a must while you’re here over the 4th. The combination of reef breaks and pristine beaches make this destination one-of-a-kind for surf enthusiasts. Do note that even in July, the water can be cold, so having quality gear in place like a wetsuit and gloves is always important. If you’re looking to check iconic stops off your must-try list while you’re in town over the holiday, be sure to pair your surf adventures with a post-ride stop at The Pelican Brew Pub which is just steps from the sand.

Include Fireworks into Your Getaway

If you can’t imagine a 4th of July adventure without fireworks included on your trip to Pacific City this year won’t disappoint! The annual fireworks display is hosted at dusk at Bob Straub State Park. Be sure to check the city’s website for any potential changes to the fireworks display before heading out.

Book Your Getaway Today

Making time to unwind, relax, and enjoy your time in Pacific City is always worth your while. When you’re looking for incredible accommodations to top the experience off in style, the property professionals at Open Nest have you covered. Reach out today to learn more about our many inviting Pacific City vacation rentals available in this area and how we can help you start planning your trip!

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Jun 16 2022

Book Your Winter 2022 Getaway Today!

Envision a tranquil winter’s vacation spent on the coast, surrounded by gorgeous natural sights and breathtaking views looking out over the churning waves of the mighty Pacific Ocean, the jutting Cape Kiwanda, and Haystack Rock looming just offshore. When you come to spend winter 2022 with us here in Pacific City, this picture can easily become your reality and everyday experience! With an excellent location at the base of the Three Capes Scenic Loop, here you can explore the magnificent Cape Kiwanda, and embark on further adventures throughout the state. Pacific City is the kind of place that offers both the conveniences of a modern town and the feel of a remote escape to nature. With lots of recreation, miles of stunning shoreline, small-town vibes, and a chilly crisp in the air, Pacific City is the perfect destination for a winter 2022 getaway!

Escape to the Beach this Winter in Pacific City, OR

There’s something unique about a winter spent on the Oregon coast—gorgeous overcast days, crisp and breezy afternoons, and an expanse of natural wonders to explore. You can enjoy a bit of that seasonal temperature drop, but you can expect things to average in the low 50s during the day, opening a world of outdoor recreation to you. At the same time, you can cozy up around the fire in your vacation rental on rainy days and take a dip in the hot tub on chilly nights. It’s the kind of destination that’s just as perfect for adventure as it is for relaxing and soaking up the scenery. Since we’re a small town, it’s wise to plan and book your winter 2022 getaway ahead of time, ensuring you have a vacation rental reserved by the time the season arrives—especially if you’re looking to book one of our holiday rentals!

Explore Cape Kiwanda and the Three Capes Scenic Loop

Pacific City is home to Cape Kiwanda, a massive sandstone cape that extends into the sea and offers sweeping views of the beach and the towering Haystack Rock in the water past the break. Once you’ve explored Cape Kiwanda, you can embark on the famous Three Capes Scenic Loop, which will take you up to Cape Lookout, and Cape Meares. We have some beachfront homes in Kiwanda Shores where the sand is just outside your back door, and where you can relax in your hot tub with epic views of the ocean and Cape Kiwanda. Understandably so, properties with features like these tend to get booked quickly, which is another excellent reason to be thinking about booking your winter 2022 vacation ahead of time!

Winter Wildlife Watching in Pacific City, OR

If you love to spot a wild critter or two, Pacific City and the surrounding area offer quite a few chances to glimpse creatures in their natural habitat. December marks the start of whale watching season, and you can take a local tour, or try to spot a few migrating Gray Whales from the top of Cape Kiwanda. Walk the trails at Bob Straub State Park for a chance to see migratory birds and coastal wildlife along the beach—you might even spot a seal or sea lion! Explore along the Nestucca River and you might see a variety of avian life such as birds of prey, as well as rarer creatures like otters. Many of our homes are centrally located in these areas, so if you have one in mind, be sure to reserve it now for your winter vacation!

Discover the Oregon Coast in the Winter Season

Wake up to spend your mornings walking on the beach with moody views of a foggy shore, spend the afternoon grabbing a local brew at Pelican Brewing, and the evening dining out at one of our fantastic local restaurants. You’ll find that when you’re visiting in the winter you can still experience all the best parts of the city, from the abundance of natural beauty to the charming shops and eateries in town. In order to experience it all, it’s smart to start planning your winter 2022 vacation today—and it all starts with your vacation rental!

Book Your Winter 2022 Getaway with Open Nest Today!

At Open Nest, we’re proud to be the premier vacation rental company in Pacific City, where we strive to give you a personalized experience combined with our local expertise, for a winter vacation you’ll remember for years to come. We have a long list of rentals with features ideal for a winter escape—homes with ocean views, handsome fireplaces, hot tubs, rooms with private balconies, and views of the Nestucca River and the beach beyond. With features like these, it’s no surprise we book up quickly—so give us a call and we’ll start planning your Pacific City winter 2022 getaway today!

May 16 2022

Stay in Pacific City this Memorial Day

The Oregon coast is always a stunning place to visit, whether it’s in the moody winter season or the chilly days of early spring—but for a real treat, visit Pacific City this Memorial Day! Memorial Day is the unofficial heralding of summer, as there’s a chance of clearer skies, and the daytime temperatures warm up a bit, making this a great season for beach walks, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. This weekend has long been a favored time to escape to the coast, and you’re likely to find a lively atmosphere of fellow vacationers hopefully chasing a bit of pre-summer sunshine. With lots of things to do and plenty of delicious restaurants to dine at, all against the backdrop of Cape Kiwanda and the mighty Pacific Ocean, Pacific City is the perfect destination for a bit of Memorial Day relaxation!

Soak Up the Beauty of the Beach

While May temperatures tend to be in the 60s and might not exactly be lounging out in your swimwear weather, it’s still a terrific time for a beachy adventure—especially as more sunny days start to occur! Rent a wetsuit and go surfing on the easy waves of Pacific City Beach or take lessons with a local shop like Moment Surf Company. Beaches here tend to provide long and epic views, as well as unique formations such as Haystack Rock off Pacific City Beach, or the petrified wood forest at nearby Neskowin Beach. Winema Beach you’ll find just south of town, which offers a long walk that will take you to the mouth of the Nestucca River, where you might spot wildlife such as seals and predatory birds.

More Memorial Day Fun in Pacific City!

Take a Kayak Adventure on the Nestucca River

This is a fantastic Memorial Day activity perfect for the entire family. The Nestucca River offers a different side of Pacific City’s scenery, with views of hilly terrain covered in thick forest and pristine water that hosts a variety of wildlife. Bring your own kayaks, or you can always rent some from Nestucca Adventures, which also offers paddleboards and pedal kayaks, as well as a quick educational course so you will feel comfortable adventuring on your own.

Explore the Famed Three Capes Scenic Loop

Pacific City is home to Cape Kiwanda, a giant sandstone cape that juts majestically into the Pacific Ocean and provides breathtaking views of Haystack Rock, the city, and the area beyond. Nature lovers will be thrilled to find out that there are two more capes, and that Pacific City can be the start of an unforgettable adventure on the Three Capes Scenic Loop. Head north to Cape Lookout, where you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramas of the Pacific Ocean and the coast from cliffs 400 feet high. The park also includes a beach and many trails—perfect for a Memorial Day picnic! The final stop is Cape Meares, which offers a historic lighthouse and lots of birdwatching. On the loop back to Pacific City, you can stop by the Tillamook Creamery!

Visit the Local Bob Straub State Park

This is another fine place to get on a beach walk, with miles of sand and easy beach access points with parking and restrooms. Get a local license and go fishing or embark on a horseback ride with a local tour company like Green Acres Beach and Trail Rides. If the weather is favorable, it’s another place to get in some Memorial Day picnicking and hiking. Our local state park offers great wildlife watching and views of Cape Kiwanda and Haystack Rock.

Grab a Pacific City Brew at Pelican Brewing

Pelican Brewing has long been a Pacific City icon, with an amazing location right on the beach with unbeatable sunset views—and Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to sit out on the patio with covered seating! Offering a varied menu of high-quality brews, you’ll find everything from lighter styles to biting IPAs, as well as a food menu with a variety of appetizers, gourmet flatbreads, soups, salads, and entrees. Both dog friendly and family-friendly, this spot is sure to have a lively atmosphere for Memorial Day weekend! Other waterfront restaurants include Meridian, which has a more upscale vibe, and The Riverhouse Nestucca, set in a rustic setting right on the river.

Reserve Your Memorial Day Vacation Home with Us Today!

When you’re getting away to the beach for Memorial Day, you’ll want an amazing rental for an unforgettable vacation—and at Open Nest, we have just that! We’re proud to offer a wide variety of vacation rentals throughout the Pacific City area, from strikingly modern beachfront homes right on the sand, to quiet forest hideaways where you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. To learn more about spending Memorial Day in Pacific City, give us a call today!

Apr 14 2022

Celebrate Easter in Pacific City Oregon

There’s nothing like a holiday getaway to Pacific City, Oregon, and if you’ve found yourself daydreaming about an oceanside vacation, what better time than Easter? Spend your holiday weekend traversing lush forest trails, watching the sunset of Cape Kiwanda, and exploring the adventurous Three Capes Scenic Drive. Spring is a lovely season in general, but even more beautiful when the coastal area is coming back to life after the winter months. Discover hidden forest paths with blooming wildflowers and whip out the binoculars for some fantastic wildlife watching. In addition to the area bursting with natural beauty, you’ll also find a lively restaurant scene in Pacific City, as well as local shopping and popular seasonal outdoor recreation. It’s a great time to escape to Pacific City for Easter–if you’ve been thinking about an Easter vacation to Pacific City, you’ll find much to do!

Discover Outdoor Adventure

When you visit for a holiday weekend, you’ll find much to do, especially in the spring! Enjoy that classic misty Oregon coastal vibe, or maybe you’ll even have a few days of sunshine—either way, you’ll find there’s much to discover outside your front door, from popular hiking to local state parks. Immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest environment, taking in all the natural sights and sounds of the coast, forest, and river. Pacific City is your Easter outdoor playground!

More Easter Activities for Your Vacation!

Attend an Easter Service

If you’d like to attend a local Easter service, you’ll find several local churches of different denominations. Nearby you’ll find the Pacific Coast Bible Church, and the Nestucca Valley Presbyterian. Take a scenic drive up the Oregon Coast Highway and you’ll discover more options, such as the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Cloverdale Baptist Church, and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Whether you’re looking for an Easter service or just on a leisurely holiday vacation, you’ll be at home in Pacific City either way!

Explore Pacific City

When you’re not out adventuring the local landscape, you’ll find the quaint streets of Pacific City ready for exploring. If you’d like to do a little boutique local shopping, stop by Lucky Beach Boutique to grab some new beachwear, or stop by the Library Thrift Shop to swoop a unique and one-of-a-kind find. Moment Surf Shop offers a variety of items for your surfing needs, including wetsuits if you want to brave the spring waters for a bit of Easter surfing—or you can just pick up your next favorite hat for the upcoming summer. Treat yourself to a bit of self-care products at the local Ritual Coastal Soapery and Candelarium or pick up a spring Easter bouquet at Brandalyn & Blooms. The charm of Pacific City will captivate you for a marvelous holiday vacation!

Local Thrills and Adventures

Whether it’s kayaking on the Nestucca River, or hiking up the sandstone cliffs of Cape Kiwanda, you’ll find outdoor recreation for all skill levels and styles in Pacific City. The local Bob Straub State Park offers many nature walks and offers gorgeous beaches for leisurely strolls, while the Winema Beach Walk is one of the loveliest stretches of shoreline in the Northwest! After exploring all the local sights, make a short drive south to Neskowin Beach, where you can see petrified ancient tree stumps dotted along the beach. Wherever you go, from the forest to the coast, you’ll always be entertained in some way!

Reserve a Table for Easter Brunch

It’s always a great idea to reserve an Easter brunch, and there’s several spots in Pacific City where you can enjoy a fantastic bite and maybe even a beverage or two to celebrate your holiday vacation. The Grateful Bread Bakery offers a fantastic brunch menu with views of the Nestucca River, while the Village Coffee Shoppe, which offers a diner-like feel. Other options include the Meridian Restaurant and Bar, which includes ocean views, and the Nelscott Café, which has a quaint vibe, and an extensive menu with options for kids! When you’re done brunching and if you fancy a cold brew, make sure to stop by the iconic Pelican Brewing Company, where you can sip on a local beer with ocean views.

Reserve Your Easter Vacation Home with Open Nest Today!

Your dream Easter vacation all starts with your dream vacation rental, and here at Open Nest, we have a wide variety, from shorefront homes to hidden forest getaways—and of course plenty of properties that are perfect for an old-fashioned Easter egg hunt! We’re locals that love our town, and beyond offering helpful tips and suggestions, we’re always here to answer any questions you might have. Even better, we know all our properties very well, and what you see is what you get! If you’re ready to start planning your Easter getaway to Pacific City, Oregon, call our friendly reservations team to book your Easter vacation home today!