The Oregon coastline is a breathtaking wonderland of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and endless natural beauty. Stretching over 360 miles from the Columbia River to the California border, this stunning landscape is home to an incredible diversity of coastal environments, from the windswept dunes of the south to the rocky headlands of the north.
For beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the Oregon coast is a true paradise, offering endless opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you are looking to surf world-class waves, explore vibrant tide pools, or simply soak up the sun on a secluded stretch of sand, the beaches of Oregon have something for everyone.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey along the Oregon coast, exploring some of the most stunning and iconic beaches in the state. From the bustling resort towns of the north to the wild and remote stretches of the south, we will showcase the incredible diversity and beauty of this coastal wonderland, and provide insider tips and recommendations for making the most of your beach experience.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and join us on a journey of discovery along the incredible beaches of Oregon.
The Northern Oregon Coast
Cannon Beach
No discussion of the Oregon coast would be complete without mentioning Cannon Beach, one of the most iconic and beloved beach destinations in the state. Located just 90 minutes from Portland, this charming resort town is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and laid-back coastal vibe.
The centerpiece of Cannon Beach is undoubtedly Haystack Rock, a massive 235-foot sea stack that rises dramatically from the surf just offshore. This iconic landmark, which is home to a diverse array of seabirds and marine life, is a popular spot for photography, beachcombing, and tide pool exploration.
But Haystack Rock is just one of the many natural wonders that make Cannon Beach such a special place. The town is surrounded by miles of pristine sandy beaches, lush coastal forests, and scenic hiking trails that offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
For those looking to relax and unwind, Cannon Beach offers a wide variety of lodging options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious oceanfront resorts. The town is also home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, studios, and festivals showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople.
Whether you are a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Cannon Beach is a must-visit destination on the Oregon coast.
Seaside Just a few miles north of Cannon Beach lies the bustling resort town of Seaside, another popular destination for beach lovers and families. With its wide, sandy beaches, historic promenade, and lively downtown district, Seaside offers a classic beach vacation experience with a distinctly Oregon twist.
One of the main attractions of Seaside is its expansive beach, which stretches for miles along the coast and offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing, with consistent waves and a variety of breaks that cater to all skill levels.
Another iconic feature of Seaside is the historic Promenade, a 1.5-mile boardwalk that runs along the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. The Promenade is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and people-watching, and is lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, Seaside is also home to a variety of outdoor activities and attractions, from hiking and biking trails to kayaking and fishing. The town is also just a short drive from some of the most stunning natural areas on the Oregon coast, including Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park.
Whether you are looking for a fun-filled family vacation or a romantic beach getaway, Seaside offers something for everyone on the northern Oregon coast.
Rockaway Beach
Located just south of Cannon Beach and Seaside, Rockaway Beach is a hidden gem on the northern Oregon coast, offering a more laid-back and low-key beach experience. With its long stretch of sandy beach, scenic hiking trails, and charming downtown district, Rockaway Beach is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace on the coast.
One of the main draws of Rockaway Beach is its stunning natural beauty, with miles of pristine sandy beaches and lush coastal forests that offer endless opportunities for hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing, with consistent waves and a variety of breaks that cater to all skill levels.
For those looking to explore the surrounding area, Rockaway Beach is just a short drive from some of the most iconic natural attractions on the Oregon coast, including Neahkahnie Mountain and Oswald West State Park. These stunning landscapes offer a variety of hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities for outdoor adventure.
In addition to its natural beauty, Rockaway Beach is also home to a charming downtown district, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries that showcase the work of local artists and artisans. The town also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, from art walks and farmers markets to live music and cultural celebrations.
Whether you are looking for a quiet beach retreat or an action-packed outdoor adventure, Rockaway Beach offers a unique and unforgettable experience on the northern Oregon coast.
Nehalem Beach
Nestled between the charming towns of Manzanita and Nehalem, Nehalem Beach is a hidden gem on the northern Oregon coast, offering a pristine and unspoiled stretch of sandy shoreline that is perfect for beachcombing, surfing, and simply soaking up the stunning coastal scenery.
One of the main attractions of Nehalem Beach is its incredible natural beauty, with miles of wide, sandy beach that is backed by lush coastal forests and rolling dunes. The beach is also known for its excellent surfing conditions, with consistent waves and a variety of breaks that cater to surfers of all skill levels.
For those looking to explore the surrounding area, Nehalem Beach is just a short drive from some of the most stunning natural attractions on the northern Oregon coast, including Oswald West State Park and Neahkahnie Mountain. These scenic landscapes offer a variety of hiking trails, viewpoints, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
In addition to its natural attractions, Nehalem Beach is also a popular spot for a variety of recreational activities, from beach volleyball and frisbee to kite flying and picnicking. The beach is also a great place to simply relax and unwind, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the peace of the Oregon coast.
Whether you are a surfer, a beachcomber, or simply looking for a beautiful and unspoiled stretch of coastline to explore, Nehalem Beach offers a unique and unforgettable destination on the northern Oregon coast.
The Central Oregon Coast
Lincoln City
Moving south along the Oregon coast, we come to the vibrant and diverse city of Lincoln City, a popular destination for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. With its miles of sandy beaches, scenic hiking trails, and thriving arts community, Lincoln City offers something for everyone on the central Oregon coast.
One of the main attractions of Lincoln City is its expansive beach, which stretches for over seven miles along the coast and offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is also a popular spot for kite flying, with consistent winds and wide-open spaces that are perfect for this fun and family-friendly activity.
For those looking to explore the surrounding area, Lincoln City is home to a variety of stunning natural attractions, including Devils Lake State Park and the Drift Creek Falls Trail. These scenic landscapes offer a variety of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
In addition to its outdoor attractions, Lincoln City is also known for its vibrant arts community, with a variety of galleries, studios, and performance spaces that showcase the work of local artists and musicians. The city also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, from live music and theater performances to art walks and farmers markets.
Whether you are looking for a fun-filled family vacation, a romantic beach getaway, or a cultural immersion experience, Lincoln City offers a unique and unforgettable destination on the central Oregon coast.
Depoe Bay
Just south of Lincoln City lies the charming town of Depoe Bay, a hidden gem on the central Oregon coast known for its stunning ocean views, world-class whale watching, and quaint coastal charm. With its rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and cozy downtown district, Depoe Bay offers a more intimate and low-key beach experience that is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
One of the main attractions of Depoe Bay is its incredible whale-watching opportunities, with gray whales and other marine mammals frequently spotted just offshore. The town is home to a variety of whale-watching tours and charters, as well as the Whale Watching Center, which offers educational exhibits and programs about these majestic creatures.
In addition to its whale watching, Depoe Bay is also known for its stunning ocean views, with a variety of scenic overlooks and viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of the rugged coastline and crashing waves. The town is also home to a charming downtown district, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries that showcase the work of local artists and artisans.
For those looking to explore the surrounding area, Depoe Bay is just a short drive from some of the most stunning natural attractions on the central Oregon coast, including Cape Foulweather and Boiler Bay State Park. These scenic landscapes offer a variety of hiking trails, tidepools, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Whether you are a nature lover, a whale-watching enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach getaway, Depoe Bay offers a unique and unforgettable destination on the central Oregon coast.
Newport
Further south along the central Oregon coast, we come to the lively and historic city of Newport, a popular destination for beach lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. With its working waterfront, world-class aquarium, and miles of sandy beaches, Newport offers a unique and diverse coastal experience that is not to be missed.
One of the main attractions of Newport is its historic Bayfront district, a working waterfront area that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can watch local fishermen unload their catch, sample fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants, or take a scenic cruise along the bay.
Another must-see attraction in Newport is the Oregon Coast Aquarium, a world-class facility that is home to a variety of marine life from the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and live animal shows that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
For beach lovers, Newport offers miles of pristine sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The city is also home to a variety of scenic hiking trails and state parks, including Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and South Beach State Park.
In addition to its natural attractions, Newport is also known for its vibrant arts community, with a variety of galleries, studios, and performance spaces that showcase the work of local artists and musicians. The city also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, from live music and theater performances to art walks and farmers markets.
Whether you are a seafood lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun and diverse coastal getaway, Newport offers a unique and unforgettable destination on the central Oregon coast.
The Southern Oregon Coast
Bandon
As we continue our journey south along the Oregon coast, we come to the charming town of Bandon, a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class golf courses, and quaint coastal charm. With its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush coastal forests, Bandon offers a more remote and untouched beach experience that is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
One of the main attractions of Bandon is its incredible natural beauty, with miles of pristine sandy beaches and dramatic sea stacks that rise dramatically from the surf. The town is also surrounded by lush coastal forests and scenic hiking trails that offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
For golf enthusiasts, Bandon is home to some of the most stunning and challenging golf courses in the world, including Bandon Dunes Golf Resort and Pacific Dunes Golf Course. These world-class facilities offer a true links-style golf experience, with rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and stunning ocean views.
In addition to its natural attractions, Bandon is also known for its vibrant arts community, with a variety of galleries, studios, and shops that showcase the work of local artists and artisans. The town also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, from live music and theater performances to art walks and farmers markets.
For those looking to explore the surrounding area, Bandon is just a short drive from some of the most stunning natural attractions on the southern Oregon coast, including Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint and Bullards Beach State Park. These scenic landscapes offer a variety of hiking trails, tidepools, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Whether you are a nature lover, a golf enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach getaway, Bandon offers a unique and unforgettable destination on the southern Oregon coast.
Gold Beach
Further south along the Oregon coast, we come to the rugged and remote town of Gold Beach, a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class fishing, and untouched coastal wilderness. With its pristine beaches, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, Gold Beach offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
One of the main attractions of Gold Beach is its incredible fishing opportunities, with the Rogue River and the Pacific Ocean offering some of the best salmon and steelhead fishing in the world. The town is home to a variety of fishing charters and guides that can help visitors experience the thrill of landing a trophy fish.
For those looking to explore the surrounding wilderness, Gold Beach is surrounded by a variety of stunning natural attractions, including the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest and the Prehistoric Gardens. These lush landscapes offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, with a variety of trails and campsites that cater to all skill levels.
In addition to its outdoor attractions, Gold Beach is also known for its charming downtown district, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries that showcase the work of local artists and artisans. The town also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, from live music and theater performances to art walks and farmers markets.
For beach lovers, Gold Beach offers miles of pristine sandy beaches that are perfect for beachcombing, surfing, and simply soaking up the sun. The town is also home to a variety of scenic overlooks and viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
Whether you are an avid angler, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful and remote coastal getaway, Gold Beach offers a unique and unforgettable destination on the southern Oregon coast.
Brookings
As we reach the southernmost point of the Oregon coast, we come to the charming town of Brookings, a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty, mild climate, and laid-back coastal vibe. With its pristine beaches, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, Brookings offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
One of the main attractions of Brookings is its incredible natural beauty, with miles of pristine sandy beaches and dramatic sea cliffs that offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. The town is also surrounded by lush coastal forests and scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient redwoods and along bubbling streams.
For those looking to explore the surrounding area, Brookings is just a short drive from some of the most stunning natural attractions on the southern Oregon coast, including Harris Beach State Park and the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. These scenic landscapes offer a variety of hiking trails, beaches, and viewpoints that showcase the incredible diversity and beauty of the southern Oregon coast.
In addition to its outdoor attractions, Brookings is also known for its vibrant arts community, with a variety of galleries, studios, and shops that showcase the work of local artists and artisans. The town also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, from live music and theater performances to art walks and farmers markets.
For those looking to relax and unwind, Brookings offers a variety of lodging options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious oceanfront resorts. The town is also home to a variety of restaurants and cafes that showcase the bounty of the southern Oregon coast, with fresh seafood, local produce, and artisanal beverages.
Whether you are a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing coastal getaway, Brookings offers a unique and unforgettable destination on the southern Oregon coast.
Conclusion
From the rugged cliffs and lush forests of the north to the pristine beaches and untouched wilderness of the south, the Oregon coast is a true wonderland of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With over 360 miles of stunning coastline, this incredible landscape offers endless opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Whether you are a beach lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the stresses of modern life, the beaches of Oregon have something for everyone. From world-class surfing and fishing to scenic hiking and wildlife viewing, this coastal paradise offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages and interests.
But the Oregon coast is more than just a pretty place to visit; it is also a vital and fragile ecosystem that requires our care and protection. As increasing development, climate change, and other environmental pressures threaten the health and integrity of this incredible landscape, it is up to all of us to be responsible stewards and advocates for the Oregon coast.
By practicing Leave No Trace principles, supporting local conservation efforts, and educating ourselves and others about the importance of preserving this natural wonder, we can help ensure that the beaches of Oregon remain a source of beauty, inspiration, and recreation for generations to come.
So whether you are a seasoned beach-goer or a first-time visitor to the Oregon coast, we encourage you to take the time to explore this incredible landscape with an open heart and a sense of wonder. From the misty forests of Ecola State Park to the rugged wilderness of the southern coast, the beaches of Oregon offer a truly unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you leave the sand and surf behind.