Beaches is Oregon are not like here, at all. It's cold. We were there in August and had jackets on. But Seaside is probably best bet for "beach town". Cannon Beach is lovely, as is Tillamook.

Cannon beach

One of the best vacations we ever had was renting a house in Neskowin, OR. Stunning.

Tillamook area has some lovely ones, but the town and the beaches aren't together. I agree w/ the PP's selections. Oregon has the best beaches in the whole country by far.

I don't know what you mean by "not too far" but since Portland is not right on the ocean, you'll travel for any real beaches. Try Astoria, Cannon Beach, Newport. All good Oregon coast locations.

We are going to Portland this summer and would like to spend a few days on the Oregon coast. Anyone have any suggestions as to what town we should stay at? Looking for a place with a nice mix of swimming/sunbathing and shops/restaurants that is not too expensive and is not too far from Portland. Thanks.