The Oregon Coast is a breathtaking stretch of rugged cliffs, sandy shores, and hidden coves, offering visitors a diverse array of beaches perfect for adventure, relaxation, and scenic exploration.
Oregon Coast Beaches Comparison Table
| Beach | Location | Main Attractions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cannon Beach | North | Haystack Rock, tidepools, puffins | Photography, birdwatching |
| Seaside | North | Promenade, arcade, family activities | Family fun, kite flying |
| Indian Beach | North | Secluded, surfing, hiking trails | Surfing, solitude |
| Short Sand Beach | North | Oswald West State Park, forested trails | Surfing, hiking |
| Manzanita Beach | North | 7-mile sandy shore, quiet retreat | Relaxation, beachcombing |
| Rockaway Beach | North | Long sandy beach, festivals | Kite flying, family outings |
| Oceanside Beach & Tunnel Beach | North | Hidden tunnel, scenic views | Exploration, photography |
| Pacific City Beach | Central | Cape Kiwanda, sand dunes, dory boats | Sandboarding, fishing |
| Lincoln City Beach | Central | Glass float hunting, 7-mile stretch | Beachcombing, treasure hunting |
| Beverly Beach | Central | Yaquina Head, Otter Rock | Camping, kite flying |
| Cobble Beach | Central | Yaquina Head, basalt stones | Tidepooling, wildlife viewing |
| Nye Beach | Central | Shops, historic district | Culture, coastal charm |
| Bandon Beach | South | Face Rock, sea stacks | Photography, exploring |
| Gold Beach | South | Rogue River, rugged coastline | Fishing, jet boat tours |
| Harris Beach | South | Sea stacks, tidepools, camping | Camping, wildlife watching |
| Secret Beach | South | Samuel H. Boardman corridor, secluded cove | Hiking, photography |
Northern Oregon Coast Beaches
The northern Oregon coast is renowned for its stunning landscapes, iconic rock formations, and charming coastal towns. From the iconic Cannon Beach with its famous Haystack Rock to the lively Seaside, this area offers a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and culture.
Top Northern Oregon Beaches
- Cannon Beach – Known for its iconic Haystack Rock and breathtaking sunsets, it’s one of the most photographed beaches in the state.
- Seaside – A perfect family destination with its lively promenade, shops, and festive atmosphere.
- Indian Beach – Located in Ecola State Park, it’s an ideal spot for surfers and hiking enthusiasts.
- Short Sand Beach – Surrounded by the lush forest of Oswald West State Park, it’s a haven for surfers and hikers.
- Manzanita Beach – A peaceful beach with panoramic views and a laid-back vibe, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
- Rockaway Beach – With its expansive sandy shore and annual festivals, it’s a great destination for families and kite-flying enthusiasts.
- Oceanside Beach & Tunnel Beach – Offering stunning views and a hidden tunnel leading to a secluded cove, it’s a great spot for exploration and photography.
Each of these beaches has its own charm and offers unique activities, from wildlife watching to water sports.
Central Oregon Coast Beaches
The central Oregon coast is a beautiful blend of dramatic cliffs, expansive sandy shores, and unique geological features. With several state parks, wildlife refuges, and charming coastal towns, this area offers something for everyone—from adventurous outdoor activities to tranquil escapes.
Top Central Oregon Beaches
- Pacific City Beach – Known for the towering Cape Kiwanda sand dunes and the dory boats that launch directly from the beach, it’s a great spot for sandboarding, fishing, and watching surfers.
- Lincoln City Beach – Famous for its glass float hunting tradition, this long stretch of beach offers plenty of opportunities for beachcombing and treasure hunting.
- Beverly Beach – A family-friendly beach located near the Yaquina Head lighthouse, it offers great camping options and scenic views, with trails that lead to nearby Otter Rock.
- Cobble Beach – Situated in Yaquina Head, this beach is known for its unique basalt cobbles and abundant tidepools, making it a favorite for wildlife watchers and photographers.
- Nye Beach – Located in the historic district of Newport, Nye Beach is a lively spot with galleries, restaurants, and great views. It’s perfect for enjoying coastal culture while relaxing by the ocean.
The central coast is well known for its beauty and variety, offering everything from active adventures to relaxing seaside escapes. Whether you’re into outdoor exploration, beachcombing, or just soaking in the views, these beaches have something special to offer.
Southern Oregon Coast Beaches
The southern Oregon coast is known for its rugged, untamed beauty, with dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and towering sea stacks. This area is a haven for nature lovers, offering a mix of secluded beaches, hiking trails, and spectacular coastal views. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, the southern coast has plenty to offer.
Top Southern Oregon Beaches
- Bandon Beach – Famous for its stunning sea stacks and the Face Rock formation, Bandon Beach is a photographer’s paradise. The beach also offers tidepooling opportunities and is perfect for long walks along the shore.
- Gold Beach – Known for its Rogue River and rugged coastline, Gold Beach is a great place for outdoor adventures like fishing, jet boat tours, and beachcombing.
- Harris Beach – This beach is home to several sea stacks and offers excellent tidepooling and camping opportunities. It’s also a great spot for wildlife watching, including sea otters and migrating birds.
- Secret Beach – Tucked away in the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Secret Beach is a hidden gem. It’s perfect for those looking for a secluded spot to enjoy beautiful views, hike, or take stunning photographs.
- Pistol River State Park – Known for its windswept landscapes, Pistol River Beach is a prime location for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and other water sports. Its rugged beauty and great surf conditions attract outdoor enthusiasts.
The southern Oregon coast offers a more remote and wild experience, with its rocky cliffs, dramatic vistas, and less crowded beaches. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a tranquil escape.
Southern Oregon Coast Beaches: Activities and Glamping
The Southern Oregon Coast isn’t just about stunning views; it’s also a hub for various outdoor activities. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a peaceful escape in nature, these beaches provide plenty of opportunities to make the most of your visit. Plus, for those who want to combine comfort with outdoor adventure, Oregon Coast glamping options are available, offering a unique way to experience the coast without sacrificing comfort.
Activities on Southern Oregon Beaches
- Hiking – The Southern Oregon Coast offers many trails, ranging from coastal cliffs to forested paths. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor provides several easy-to-moderate trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, secluded beaches, and hidden gems like Secret Beach. You’ll experience incredible coastal vistas, dense forests, and tranquil coves along the way.
- Tidepooling – Beaches like Bandon Beach, Harris Beach, and Gold Beach are ideal for tidepooling. During low tide, these areas reveal fascinating marine life, including starfish, crabs, sea anemones, and colorful sea slugs, making it a perfect activity for families and nature lovers.
- Surfing and Windsurfing – Pistol River State Park is well-known for its windsurfing and kiteboarding conditions. With strong winds and great surf, it’s a favorite spot for those looking to catch the waves. If you’re a beginner or looking for a new challenge, there are several surf schools along the coast that offer lessons for all skill levels.
- Fishing and Jet Boat Tours – Gold Beach is not only a beautiful destination but also a hotspot for fishing, especially on the Rogue River, which offers a variety of fish species. For a unique experience, take a jet boat tour to explore the wild and scenic river or head out to sea for a day of deep-sea fishing.
- Wildlife Watching – Southern Oregon beaches are prime locations for spotting marine life, including sea otters, seals, and migrating whales. Harris Beach and Bandon Beach are great spots for watching these animals in their natural habitat. Bring your binoculars to get a closer look at birds and marine mammals along the coastline.
Glamping on the Southern Oregon Coast
For those looking for a luxurious camping experience, the Southern Oregon Coast has several glamping options, combining the best of both worlds: outdoor adventure and comfort. Enjoy the beauty of nature without giving up modern amenities like comfortable beds, heating, and gourmet meals.
- Harris Beach State Park – For a more rustic glamping experience, stay in one of the park’s glamping tents, offering stunning views of the ocean and easy access to the beach. These tents typically come equipped with cozy furnishings, electricity, and outdoor fire pits.
- Bandon – Several private companies offer glamping sites in the Bandon area, where you can stay in luxurious safari-style tents or yurts, complete with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and kitchenettes. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the coast’s natural beauty while enjoying a bit of luxury.
- Gold Beach – If you’re visiting the Gold Beach area, some glamping sites offer riverfront views, allowing you to wake up to the sound of the Rogue River. These glamping sites provide a great mix of outdoor adventure, local wildlife sightings, and access to river activities like fishing and jet boat tours.
Whether you prefer staying in a tent with an ocean view, a cozy yurt in the forest, or a luxurious tent suite with all the modern amenities, glamping provides a perfect way to experience the rugged beauty of the Southern Oregon Coast without giving up comfort.
Conclusion
The Southern Oregon Coast offers a remarkable blend of rugged beauty, outdoor adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring hidden beaches, hiking scenic trails, watching wildlife, or enjoying thrilling water sports, there’s something for everyone. From the iconic sea stacks of Bandon Beach to the secluded coves of Secret Beach, each coastal spot promises unique experiences. And for those seeking a more luxurious outdoor experience, glamping provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, an active adventure, or a combination of both, the Southern Oregon Coast is the ideal destination to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories. Pack your bags, explore the hidden gems along this stunning coastline, and discover why the Southern Oregon Coast is a must-visit location for any traveler.