There’s something so special about growing up in Oregon. For me personally, the unparalleled access to nature is one of the biggest perks and the coast was on constant rotation in my childhood summers.
Almost by design, some of the most beautiful beaches in Oregon are the most remote. But alas, sometimes the semblance of solitude is worth the effort. Read on for my list of the best Oregon coast beaches to visit by summer’s end.
Quick Tip: Make sure to pack sunscreen before heading out to the coast. Here’s the (only) sunscreen I use, I discovered it in France 6+ years ago and buy it in bulk. You’ll never catch me without it.
Meet the Author
Hello, my name is Antonina and I’m a lifelong Oregonian, I’ve been exploring the state my entire life. My childhood is freckled with memories of lazy weekends at Oregon coast beaches. My mom was in love with the area and would drag us out often.
Admittedly, when I was younger the voyage to the coast was anything but exciting. Two hours in the car with my fanatical siblings? I don’t know how she did it. But the effort was worthwhile because now that I’m older I find myself missing the Oregon coast if I stay away too long.
Now as an adult, I visit the coast at least ten times a year and have discovered a plethora of charming Oregon coast beaches worth a visit.
Most Beautiful Oregon Coast Beaches
Table of Contents: Best Oregon Coast Beaches
Table of Contents: Best Beaches Oregon Coast
Where to stay at the Oregon coast: Several readers have asked my advice on where to stay at the coast. This is (by far) my favorite area to stay in while visiting the Oregon coast.
Northern Oregon Coast Beaches
Cannon Beach
A scenic 1.5-hour drive from Portland, Cannon Beach is the most popular beach at the Oregon coast. Recognized by National Geographic as one of 100 most beautiful places in the world in 2013, Haystack Rock takes center stage as it soars to heights of 235 feet and draws folks in like moths to the flame.
If you’ve never been to the Oregon coast, Cannon Beach is an excellent starting point to get your feet wet, so to speak. The area is highly developed, making all of the popular attractions easily accessible no matter the season.
Kids (and adults) love exploring Haystack Rock at low tide in search of colorful starfish, anemones and hermits. It’s one of the best spots to explore tidepools at the coast.
But if birding is more your speed, you’re in good hands too. You can find some fascinating species circling the rock. Who knows, you may even see a tufted puffin (or two) and the occasional bald eagle.
You might enjoy reading: 15+ Charming Things To Do In Cannon Beach, Oregon
Indian Beach
Nestled within Ecola State Park, the dramatic cliffs, pristine sands and sweeping ocean views earn Indian Beach a spot on my list of the most beautiful beaches on the Oregon coast. Much less busy than its neighbor to the south, Cannon Beach, you can easily park yourself in the sand for a full relaxing day at the beach.
To reach the beach, route to Ecola State Park and head north down Ecola Park Road for 1.5 miles. Turn right and drive 2 miles to Indian Beach. There’s a $5-day user permit required to park, or you can display an annual Oregon State Parks permit.
Short Sand Beach
Sandwiched between a temperate rain forest to the east and the formidable Pacific Ocean to the west, Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park manages to strike a pleasant balance between two intimidating neighbors.
Even though it’s secluded, this is one of the most popular Oregon beaches and has the summer crowds to prove it. To reach the beach, you’ll need to park the car and hike a short distance through a fragrant forest of Sitka spruce.
You would think that having to hike in would deter crowds, but that’s not the case. However, even with the crowds, this rugged Oregon coast beach is worthwhile because the landscape is so serene.
Also worth mention: Short Sand Beach is one of the best beaches on the Oregon coast for surfing. Expect to see many wet-suit laden surfers braving glacial temperatures in search of waves. The people-watching opportunities are endless, that’s for sure.
Manzanita Beach
Stretching 7 miles, Manzanita is a soft-sand beach in Oregon dotted by grassy dunes and driftwood. Often overlooked by first-time visitors, you’ll have an opportunity to relax on the beach with a book, stretch your legs on the long stretch of beach, or admire the stunning view of Neahkahnie Mountain.
The beach is so beautiful, it inspired Oregon Governor Oswald West to declare that all the beaches in Oregon should be free and open to the public (a declaration that was later passed into law). In fact, Oregon and Hawaii are the only states in the country where access to the state’s beaches is guaranteed to the public (no private beaches allowed).
Oceanside Beach & Tunnel Beach
Oceanside Beach leads to Tunnel Beach, which was one of my favorite beaches in Oregon when I was a kid. I have fond memories of climbing through the dark tunnel and coming through the other side. It felt like such an adventure!
Located near Tillamook, Tunnel Beach is named after a man-made tunnel carved into the cliff side of Maxwell Point. The passageway dates back 100 years and was built in 1926 to give resort guests access to a longer stretch of coastline.
The first portion of the tunnel is made from concrete, but walk further in and you’ll notice the concrete give way to basalt rock, follow deeper in (cellphone flashlight will work just fine) until you see the light beam at the end of the tunnel. Alas, you reached Tunnel Beach!
Rockaway Beach
If your ideal day at the coast doesn’t entail rubbing elbows with hordes of people, may I suggest Rockaway Beach? Best described as “a little Oregon coast town with a big beach,” you’ll be able to find some semblance of solitude on this stretch of the coast.
If you’re into tide pools, clamming or sunbathing you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more peaceful Oregon coast beach. The town is home to less than 1,500 residents, so amenities are limited but the plus side is lack of crowds.
Good to Know: This interesting Oregon coast town has a funny claim to fame: the corn dog was invented in Rockaway Beach!
Neskowin Beach
For reasons unbeknownst to me, Neskowin has been able to skirt the commercialization taking most of the other Oregon Coast beaches by storm. As such, both the town and beach feel less crowded than most other areas along the coast.
Ripe for exploration, this Oregon coast beach is defined by Proposal Rock (which looks like a shorter version of Haystack Rock at Canon Beach) and the Ghost Forest.
The Ghost Forest is comprised of ancient 2000-year-old Sitka spruce stumps that reached heights of 200-feet in their heyday. Meandering past the stumps is a blast for kids, which makes this one of the most family-friendly beaches at the Oregon coast.
If you’re in an adventurous mood, strap on your hiking boots and take in the splendor of the vast Pacific Ocean from the Cascades Head trail, one of the BEST hikes at the Oregon Coast. If you’re looking for a shorter (heart-pumping) hike, climb Proposal Rock. Find the rope hanging down the side of the rock and make your way up for a unique vantage point.
Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park is located near Astoria, best known as the filming location for The Goonies. Technically, Astoria is not a beach town because it sits at the mouth of the Columbia River. Technicalities aside, that doesn’t stop it from being a great place to explore.
Head over to Fort Stevens State Park to explore the most iconic shipwreck in the state, the Wreck of Peter Iredale. Fort Stevens is the site of a military instillation that was used to guard the mouth of the Columbia River from the Civil War to World War II. Read: Visiting Fort Stevens Park (10 Things to Do).
Good to know: Fort Stevens State Park is home to one of the largest public campgrounds in the country. It’s an epic spot to set up for a few nights, read: 12 Best Campgrounds at the Oregon Coast.
Central Oregon Coast Beaches
Pacific City Beach
Pop over to Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area and rub elbows with what feels like half of Oregon There’s a reason this is one of the most visited beaches at the Oregon coast. This stretch of the coast is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, especially if you enjoy surfing.
If you’re itching for adventure, test your athletic abilities by climbing to the summit of the towering sand dune. The views from the top are striking and guaranteed to get your heart pumping, afterwards, reward yourself with a pint from Pelican Brewery, one of the best breweries at the coast.
Cobble Beach
Sitting pretty at the base of Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Cobble Beach is one of the most unique beaches on the Oregon coast. While you won’t find smooth sand to lay on, you will find fascinating round cobblestones that line every inch of the shore.
Home to some of the best tide pools in Oregon, the beach comes alive with vibrant sea life at low tide but is equally beautiful at high tide. Find a smooth section of the shore to park on, and listen to the satisfying sound of rushing waves clashing against the black stones.
Beverly Beach
Marred by wind-sculpted trees and moss-laden logs, Beverly Beach feels like home to those that grew up on the coast. This 5-mile Oregon beach stretches from Yaquina Head Lighthouse to Otter Rock. You’ll find beach goers embracing the windy conditions year-round.
John Dellenback Trailhead
The expansive dune fields at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area are mesmerizing. Stretching 40 miles from Florence to Coos Bay, this is the largest expanse of coastal dunes in the country.
Hike the John Dellenback Trail to access the charming Oregon coast beach by the same name. But take note: reaching the beach may prove challenging because some of the towering sand dunes require great effort to pass. Thankfully, the trail is marked by wooden posts buried in the sand, making it easy to navigate the path.
Southern Oregon Coast Beaches
Bandon Beach
Bandon is one of the most charming towns at the coast, but it’s Bandon Beach that steals the show. Monolithic rocks jut directly out of the sea and create a dramatic landscape, defining the rugged southern portion of the coast.
Before popping over to this beautiful beach on the Oregon coast, I suggest starting your day in Old Town Bandon, where fun little shops line the main street. If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday, make time to explore the old town marketplace where local artisans eagerly share their talents and crafts.
You can’t visit Bandon without taking the Beach Loop Drive and exploring Circles in the Sand. Both are bound to entertain you for hours — which is why this is considered one of the best beaches in Oregon.
Local’s Recommendation: If you have a sweet tooth, don’t sleep on the brownies from Coastal Mist Chocolates, it’s probably the best brownie I’ve ever had, so good!
Harris Beach
The sleepy town of Brookings lies waiting with a warm welcome of serene beaches, quiet eateries, and plenty more panoramic vistas of the seascape to revel in. Located six miles from the California border, Harris Beach typically boasts warmer weather than most other Oregon beaches.
That’s not to say you’ll see me braving a swim (it’s still way too cold for that!), but the overall sunny climate makes visiting the beach a very enjoyable experience.
Cruise to the Port of Brookings Harbor for restaurants, our favorite being Zola’s for some tasty pizza with lovely harbor views. You may consider camping at Harris Beach State Park or Loeb State Park before embarking further on your road trip.
If helpful, here’s my personal guide to an Epic Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary.
Secret Beach
Secluded coves, dramatic sea stacks, and an elusive trail to the shore give this hidden gem its name. Well, it’s not so much a secret anymore, but this relatively low-traffic Oregon beach sure can feel like one.
Take a scenic trek down to the shore through deep emerald spruce and pine forest. There are a few intersecting trails you can take here, all of which are unmarked, so arriving on the sand takes a bit more effort than most of the other beautiful Oregon coast beaches on this list.
Getting to the beach: The entrance to Secret Beach is 1/3 mile south of milepost 345, park in the small gravel area and take the 3/4 mile trail down to the beach.
You May Enjoy Reading: 10+ Best Things to Do at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
Port Orford Beach
In terms of the most beautiful beaches on the Oregon coast, Port Orford is hard to beat. Fighting words, I know, but you’ll know they’re justified within minutes of arriving.
Thankfully the beauty is easy to admire on this hard-packed, level beach. The towering seas tacks steal the show, while birds soar above. If that’s not enough, whale spotting is very common during migrating season.
The best part? Since Port Orford is one of the southern-most beaches in Oregon, crowds aren’t expected. I’ve visited this beach many times and only ran into a handful of folks.
The Best Oregon Coast Beaches (Post Summary)
In sum, here’s a quick overview of the best Oregon coast beaches, based on firsthand experience.
- Cannon Beach
- Manzanita Beach
- Seaside Beach
- Short Sand Beach
- Rockaway Beach
- Neskowin Beach
- Fort Stevens State Park
- Cape Kiwanda
- Cobble Beach
- Beverly Beach
- John Dellenback Trails Beach
- Harris Beach
- Port Orford Beach
- Secret Beach
- Sunset Bay Beach
- Bandon Beach
Map of the best Oregon coast beaches
Explore More at the Oregon Coast
- 20 Epic Things to Do at the Oregon Coast
- 5 Best Whale Watching Spots at the Oregon Coast
- 11 Iconic Lighthouses on the Oregon Coast (+Interesting History)
- 5+ Great Oregon Coast Crabbing Spots (Helpful Guide)
- All 15 Breweries at the Oregon Coast (Ranked)
- Local’s Take: Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary (Here’s How I’d Do It)
- 12 Amazing Campgrounds on the Oregon Coast
- 12 Stunning Tide Pools at the Oregon Coast to Check Out
- 10 EPIC Spots for Wildlife at the Oregon Coast (Seals & Sea Lions)
- 15 Charming Oregon Coast Towns You Need to Visit
Until next time,
Antonina
The best thing about oregon is it’s not terribly hot in summer and not icy cold in winter, unlike Chicago, for instance.
It’s the water that cool the temperatures at summer and warm them at winter. And the beach is beautiful. Nature is better than any man made things. And there’s nothing like the sea.
I couldn’t agree more! The beach is very beautiful, there’s nothing like it.
Wish the water temps listed for each beach, perhaps an update? Go summer cz winters feel freezing due to the wind, damp cold & wet.
Thank you for this article on Oregon beaches. It’s so rare to find any in magazines. I’m a born and raised Oregonian, never traveled east of Denver Colo.
I’m now living temporarily in North Carolina and I meeting with new people not many have had the opportunity to visit dear Oregon.
To make a long story short, I am searching for Jigsaw Puzzles of Oregon to pass the time, I’m asking everyone if they know of a Jig Saw Puzzle company that makes an Oregon Coast Puzzle.
I’ve found every place and thing including grass blades and sunburns, but no Oregon Coast.
Thanks for your time, enjoyed your article.
Patricia A. Hall.
[email protected]
Hi Patricia, what a lovely thing to share with others! I did some digging and found this Jigsaw Puzzle of the Oregon Coast, I hope it’s what you’re after!
I agree about Cannon Beach being the pretties town at the coast. I hope people aren’t skipping it because they think it’s touristy, it’s not! But it’s busy for a reason, I love visiting every summer.
-Stacie (Beaverton)
I’m glad to hear Cannon Beach has your stamp of approval as well, the town is so charming, it’d be a shame to miss it.