1 Verified Surf Shop

Surf Shops in Nehalem

Nehalem sits tucked along Oregon's scenic North Coast, where the Nehalem River meets the Pacific, offering surfers a quieter alternative to crowded coastal towns. The local surf shop serves as your essential basecamp for exploring nearby breaks at Manzanita and Short Sand Beach, providing rentals, gear, and crucial beta on ever-changing Oregon conditions. This small community delivers authentic coastal character without the tourist crush—think fresh crab at local markets, riverside kayaking, and easy access to Oswald West State Park's old-growth trails. The shop staff knows these moody Pacific swells intimately and can steer you toward the best sandbars and reef setups based on current swell direction and tide. Between sessions, Nehalem's laid-back vibe, quality coffee stops, and proximity to multiple beach access points make it an ideal hub for surfers seeking both waves and genuine Oregon coast culture.

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Why surfers love Nehalem

Planning tips before you visit

Nehalem's surf season peaks in the fall and winter when groundswells deliver consistent, powerful surf, requiring thick wetsuits. Summer offers smaller, more manageable waves suitable for beginners. Local rhythms are slow; plan to visit mid-week for less crowded access to the breaks near the mouth of the Nehalem River. Since there is only one documented local shop, call ahead, especially outside of peak summer, to confirm operating hours before making the trip.

Services & gear you'll find here

The local surf outfitter typically stocks essential cold-water gear, including high-quality 5/4mm or 6/5/4mm wetsuits, boots, gloves, and hoods necessary for Oregon winters. Expect rental packages that include boards appropriate for the variable conditions, often foam tops or mid-lengths. While full custom shaping might be limited, they usually offer reliable ding repair services to keep your board water-tight. Ask staff about current sandbar setups near the jetty for the best entry points.

FAQs about surf shops in Nehalem

Fall (September through November) generally offers the most consistent, organized swell activity. Winter brings larger waves requiring advanced skills. Summer months provide smaller, gentler conditions ideal for learning or longboarding near the river mouth.

Given the limited number of shops, dedicated daily group lessons might not run year-round. It is highly recommended to pre-book private or semi-private lessons well in advance, especially during summer weekends, to secure instruction time.

Nehalem water temperatures drop significantly in deep winter. You will absolutely require a 5/4mm or 6/5/4mm hooded full wetsuit. Don't forget neoprene boots, gloves, and a hood for comfort and safety in the frigid Pacific.