Big news! If you haven’t already heard the word … The Salmonberry is reopening. They are currently looking for experienced kitchen staff. Here’s hoping everything falls into place so we can consume tasty pizza on the Wheeler waterfront this summer!
Speaking of Wheeler, I enjoyed some quiet, rainy-day shopping at Pelican and Piper over the weekend. This prompted me to stick my head into many of the other shops in Wheeler, Nehalem and Manzanita.
The result is this sample (cause there’s a lot more than I could include here) holiday local-shopping guide to get you started.
Nehalem Bay Holiday Shopping Guide
In addition to their own line of clothing, Pelican & Piper has a plethora of interesting gifts and stocking stuffer ideas. I loved the embroidery kits and puzzle assortment. Hurry in to pick up some sweet NW Meadowfoam Honey, Woodblock Chocolate from Portland, or how about a Holy Cannoli or Crème Brûlée Crackle truffle bar from Seattle Chocolate? Try to resist grabbing a bright red bag of “cranberry bog” from Warrenton.
At the very least while you’re in Nehalem (and sneaking a scoop of Gingerbread Cookies & Cream from Buttercup), you need to check out the cute window display and warm, homey vibes created by Ashley of Wild Coast Goods. Don’t miss the enamelware from Crow Canyon Home and the new shipment of colorful Cape Porpoise Trading door mats (below). For a unique gift for that someone special, choose a beautiful Opinel knife (knives for the garden, oysters, mushrooms and more).
Swing into North Coast Mudworks and check out their watercolor journals (below), sample some tea at DoJu Moon to find the perfect sip for someone, and wander through Revival and BAYBAY where you’re sure to find a treasure or two. I liked the striped sweaters at Revival and the mini cacti in colorful pots at BAYBAY. Oh, and Wanda’s Cafe was closed when I was there — but they have great stocking stuffers!


I feel like books should be on everyone’s list for Christmas! Did you know you can order books from Cloud & Leaf? In past years, I’ve taken my “list of books for family members” into the bookstore and Lynn has looked them all up for me, advising on which ones she could order and get in quickly, as well as making additional recommendations based on my list. Also, I’m in love with the bird book light they have this year.
Stop in next door at UnFurl to browse their ever-changing selection. There’s so much to choose from that you’ll discover something new every time you visit – and probably something for yourself (not speaking from experience 😂).


It’s a good thing that right now, UnFurl is having a Buy More Save More Sale.
Finnesterre still has their Christmas ornaments 20% off and a few Hedley & Bennet aprons left. This is the place for hostess/host gifts as well. I like the Floral Salts and Sugars, and check out all the tea towels and candles.
Other stores on Laneda that you don’t want to miss:
Bahama Mamas — see the new holiday collection from Roxy and Quicksilver + locals get 10% off.
Moxie Fair Trade (lots of cute felt ornaments) and a back of the store clearance section.
T-Spot for a fun eclectic selection – don’t miss the clearance (and adult) sections!
Wisteria Chic for unique kitchen/home gifts and gorgeous children’s clothing, plus a nice selection of cookbooks right now.
For the kids and sweet toothers on Santa’s list, visit Toylandia and Manzanita Sweets. Cause fudge is always a good idea.
Photos with Santa
Take your furry family members to Four Paws on the Beach to see Santa on Dec. 21 from 2pm – 4pm. A $20 donation benefits Animal Haven by the Sea. And if you don’t have a pet, bring yourself and take a pic with Kris Kringle (like we did last year).
Stock up on the wine
Dixie at Dixie’s Vino can help you pick out the perfect wine, plus she gives locals a small discount.
The Winery at Manzanita is running a bottle sale this month and they will ship wine to your mother in law (or anyone) for you. Visit the winery on Dec. 14 to pick up bottles for the holiday season, plus you can see Santa and enjoy live music and complimentary appetizers.
If you’re tired from all that shopping, you probably deserve a Cinnamon Roll for One.
Or if you still have lots of energy, get on the Christmas cookie train! Bake Red (and Green) Velvet Sugar Cookies. 🎄🎄🎄
So many great suggestions Angie!