Oregon has a coastline stretching 362 miles, complete with cliffs, sandy shores and forests. Whether you want a day of hiking, tide-pool observing, wildlife watching, surfing, kayaking or just relaxing, surely there is a beach here for you.
If you’re a surfer, Short Sands Beach is the one for you. Located inside Oswald West State Park in Arch Cape, Oregon, it’s a sheltered cove with a wind break and smooth sand, considered one of the best surfing breaks in Oregon. Short Sands is approximately five miles south of Cannon Beach and five miles north of Manzanita.
A great spot to kayak, although it may not technically be a beach, is Nehalem Bay. Known for its scenic coastal waterways, Nehalem Bay is a great option for both beginner and intermediate paddlers, with the opportunity to spot seabirds, seals and even elk. You can also go crabbing, fishing and clamming. There is a forested 1.8 miles long bike path through the campgrounds. Another great spot is Scappoose Bay, which has calm waters and is a great option year-round.
If you’re bringing the family and looking for a calm vacation, Cannon Beach is where you should venture. Known for its iconic Haystack Rock and quaint town, there is plenty of fun in Cannon Beach, including shopping, art galleries, restaurants and the sandy shores.
Another family-friendly beach would be Cape Kiwanda State Park. Home to its famed 240 ft tall climbable sand dune with stunning views, Cape Kiwanda is fun for all. With its scenery, soft sand and swimmable water, there is always something to do. There are also a variety of restaurants on the beach side and in town for lunch or dinner.
However, if you don’t want to lay in the sand all day, Cape Lookout State Park is waiting. The five mile round-trip Cape Trail features views of the ocean and shore peeking through sitka spruce and hemlocks on the way to the tip of Cape Lookout. On a clear day, you can see south 39 miles to Cape Foulweather and north 42 miles to Tillamook Head. The trail is mostly flat, but there can be mud and rocks in places.
So overall, whether you’re looking for family fun or an adventurous day, the Oregon Coast has many options for you.
