The Oregon coast is known for some of the most unique and beautiful beaches in North America. But, with dozens of shorelines, it can be tricky to decide which one to visit. That’s why we’ve created a guide to the best beaches in Oregon!
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, a romantic seaside destination, or a peaceful stretch of sand, you’re sure to find it at one of the best Oregon beaches. We also love that pets are invited to most beaches in the area, too.
Let’s take a look at some incredible seaside destinations which feature sand dunes, sea stacks, wildlife, and more.
1. Indian Beach, Clatsop County
Indian Beach can be found in Oregon’s Ecola State Park. It’s a rocky, driftwood-covered area that’s infamous for its relative remoteness and serene, unspoiled surroundings. There are also whirling tide pools along this short stretch of pebbly shore.
Children and adults alike are bound to enjoy viewing these watery habitats during low tide. There aren’t lifeguards on duty, but there are nice areas for little ones to splash around. It’s also a great place to go for a swim or hit the waves on the surfboard.
Want to bring your pet along? Both the beach and the park allow leashed pets to enjoy the area, too.
Notably, this quiet beach lies between several other popular shorelines, including Seaside Beach, Cannon Beach, and Crescent Beach. As such, visitors hiking the Oregon Coast Trail may want to consider camping in Ecola State Park to have time to explore all that the area has to offer. Keep in mind that the camping area is only available to those hiking along the trail because overnight parking isn’t permitted.
If you’re a daytime visitor, you can park just a short walk from the beach and forgo hiking altogether. There is a fee to enter the park.
2. Bandon Beach, Coos County
Bandon, Oregon is located closer to the southern coast than many others on this list. It’s also home to several beautiful beaches including Bandon Beach. While some consist of rocky pathways and slim shorelines, several popular sandy beaches have incredible rocky landscapes. Bandon Beach, found within the Bandon State Natural Area, is our favorite spot.
This long shoreline is remarkably pristine and often attracts naturalists, older couples, and hikers. Several different types of wildlife also call this area home, including seals and sea lions.
The Bandon State Natural Area is an appreciated spot because of its dramatic, sculpture-like cliffs and outcroppings that jut outward from the waves surrounding it. Photographers and artists easily find themselves overcome with the natural beauty and magic of this gorgeous beach.
There are plenty of parking options in the area – some free, some paid. And, if you’re looking to spend the night in Bandon, there are several top-notch hotels, motels, and inns.
Aside from hanging out on Bandon’s best beaches, there is a ton to explore in the area. Travelers and locals enjoy visiting Coquille River Light and Bullards Beach State Park. If you’re into art, be sure to check out Second Street Gallery!
3. Nye Beach, Newport
Nye Beach is a quaint beach and small neighborhood. The area is filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops. This is an excellent spot for enjoying a peaceful day at the ocean and nearby city life. Nye Beach is near the lively city of Newport, Oregon.
Spend the day on the beach where you can find sand dunes, take a stroll, and relax. There are tons of conveniences nearby, making this an excellent spot for a vacation. Pets are welcomed, too!
This is one of the best beaches in Oregon for history buffs and culture lovers! There are multiple lighthouses to explore, several quaint gift shops, and restaurants serving freshly-caught seafood. Many of these attractions are centrally located along Nye Beach.
4. Hug Point Beach, Arch Cape
Hug Point Beach is one of the most enjoyable and smallest beaches along the Oregon coast. It’s a bit of a secret beach that offers a scenic space to get away from the hustle. It can be found within Hug Point State Recreation Site located just off of Highway 101.
This little beach is a great spot for beachgoers looking to relax. There’s a nearby waterfall worth checking out that’s primarily active during the spring. You can also find tidal pools and rocky sea caves during low tide.
The beach also has a few picnic tables and a short walkway down to a small spit of sandy shoreline. Though small, it’s a great spot to spend a day! There are also restrooms close to the beach.
5. Arcadia Beach, Arch Cape
If you’re searching for gorgeous Oregon beaches, this is it! Arcadia Beach is surrounded by a windswept treeline and gigantic, mountainous rocks that rise from nearby waves. It’s an incredible scene, so be sure to bring your camera!
Joggers enjoy running past eroding stone or bright green fields of seagrass. Sunbathers can catch some rays while taking in incredible views. Pets even enjoy hanging out at Arcadia Beach.
Be sure to come at low tide to wander around along the sand. You may see some jellyfish, sea stars, and anemones! You’ll probably come across a couple of tide pools, too.
Arcadia Beach is a great, free beach. The parking lot offers easy beach access, but it’s small and can fill up, so be sure to arrive early!
6. Moolack Beach, Lincoln County
While some beaches are perfect for sunbathing or watersports, Moolack Beach is the ideal seaside destination for treasure hunters, seashell collectors, and sea glass enthusiasts. This undeveloped sandy beach is found about 4 miles north of Newport and stretches nearly 5 miles.
Due to the flow of ocean currents and the unique angle of this shoreline, Moolack Beach attracts an abundance of seaborne valuables. And, the salty waves have also exposed dozens of fossils that were once cemented in the craggy rocks lining the beach. Best of all, there aren’t a ton of beachgoers at Moolack, so you’ll have much of the space to yourself!
Whether you find a new treasure or not, you’re bound to feel a rush of excitement while exploring this agate-rich shoreline. You can also find several tide pools. Because there are rocks along the shore, Moolack Beach isn’t the best place to bring your pet.
Keep in mind that there is a trail from the free parking area to the beach. It’s not too much of a hike, but it takes a moment to make it to the shore. Take in the views and check out the lighthouse in the distance on your journey!
7. Nelscott Beach, Lincoln City
While Lincoln City Beach is a popular public beach destination for sunbathers and vacationing families, nearby Nelscott Beach is just as welcoming and far less crowded. This gold beach is known for its soft sands and jaw-dropping sunrises and sunsets.
Surrounded by prime resorts and hotels, this beach feels private yet well-connected. Local cafes, restaurants, and shops are only a short stroll away from Nelscott Beach. Plenty of public parking is also conveniently located for easy beach access. It’s no wonder Nelscott Beach is one of the best hidden gems of Lincoln City.
Once you’re on the beach, there’s a lot to enjoy. Take a swim, hit the waves on your surfboard, or relax on the sand. You can also take a stroll with your pet while enjoying the stunning beach views and hunting for cool rocks. The opportunities are endless!
8. Del Rey Beach, Clatsop County
If you travel just north of Seaside, Oregon, you’ll find the quiet Del Rey Beach. The beach sits within the serene Del Rey Beach State Recreation Site which offers convenient parking and easy access to the beach. It’s also one of the few Oregon beaches that allow cars on the sand!
With wide spaces of flat shoreline, this coastal area is a fantastic place for exercising, kite flying, dog walking, and sunbathing. The little ones especially love all the space to play and build sandcastles. Be sure to keep an eye out for sand dollars and seashells! The best part is that the area is pretty private, so you can expect peace in this corner of the Oregon coast.
For a unique experience, check out horseback riding opportunities in the area. If you’re looking to stay awhile and enjoy a beach vacation, Del Rey Beach is only a short drive away from the tourist-friendly resort city of Seaside. There are plenty of accommodations and activities to enjoy.
9. Stonefield Beach, Lane County
Stonefield Beach State Recreation Site, often referred to as Stonefield Beach, is a remote strip of shoreline near Yachats, Oregon. Though it’s popular among anglers, it’s also an excellent spot for beachcombing
Because of its somewhat hidden entrance, this secret beach is relatively unpicked. Be prepared to find unique seashells, rocks, and sea glass. With that said, you won’t find many amenities in the area – no bathrooms, restaurants, or much of anything else. If you’re up for an adventure and a memorable beach experience, this probably won’t bother you!
When you aren’t exploring, be sure to take in the incredible views. You may even catch some cool sightings if you sit and do some whale watching! Be sure to bring your pet along if you want some company. Kids love the area, too!
Tip: To find this beach that’s partially hidden from the main highway, look for the small free parking lot near the small bridge crossing Tenmile Creek.
10. Beverly Beach State Park, Newport
Beverly Beach State Park is just north of Moolack Beach. It’s one of the many striking beaches that line the Oregon Coastal Highway. Perhaps the most notable aspect of this beach is how beautifully and seamlessly the pine forest transitions into sandy dunes and long splays of shoreline.
The pet-friendly beach sits near several hiking trails, restrooms, and a playground. There are also picnicking areas and a variety of campsites. In fact, the area is a wonderful spot for campers and minimalist travelers looking to unplug and get away.
For a unique experience, stay in a seaside yurt. If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up just a stone’s throw away from a pristine beach in a really cool spot, this is it!
11. Cobble Beach, Newport
If you’re looking for a soft sandy beach that’s perfect for sunbathing on the Oregon coast, Cobble Beach might not be the right choice. But, if geology is your thing and you’re up for planning a trip out to Yaquina Head, make the stop at the semi-hidden Cobble Beach.
This very brief slip of shoreline is black with smooth basalt rocks, the remainder of ancient volcanic activity in the area. There are also tidal pools that are home to various aquatic creatures, including colorful starfish.
This contrast of deep black stone and bright sealife makes this beach an incredible site for photographers, naturalists, or curious beachcombers. However, the long staircase down to this pebbly beach can be treacherous during cold, rainy, or windy weather. So, be prepared!
To visit Cobble Beach, you’ll need to travel to Yaquina Head Lighthouse. There are paid and free parking options in the area. Feel free to bring your pet along, too (as long as they can handle the adventure)!
12. Ona Beach, Lincoln County
At the northern end of Brian Booth State Park sits Ona Beach, a semi-circle of sand. This bit of shoreline lies somewhat inland, with tidal movements bringing water in and out of small inlets around it.
This beach isn’t too large but offers enough space for a peaceful day by the shore. It’s also a safe spot away from the strong pulls and currents of the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the best beaches in Oregon for young families and pet parents to cut loose and enjoy some summer sun.
Kayakers also love this spot due to its easily navigable, river-like inlets and streams. And, anglers catching some fish! It’s also a nice place to take a stroll as you can find several nice walking paths. Wander around to find picnic areas, grassy spaces, and restrooms.
If you’re looking to stay in the area, there are several inns and cottages close to the beach. Ona is also just 8 miles north of the lively and scenic town of Newport. Here you can find tons of activities, including the iconic Yaquina Head Lighthouse and excellent dining.
13. Tolovana Beach, Cannon Beach
Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site sits between Arcadia Beach to the south and Cannon Beach to the north. Tolovana Beach is known for its beauty and offers a great atmosphere to hang out for the day.
The area is a popular starting spot for hikers hoping to catch a glimpse of nearby Haystack Rock. On the beach, take in the scenery, do some bird watching, and check out the huge sea stacks.
Kids are also bound to have a great time here, thanks to the playground found within the recreation site. You can find restrooms and picnic areas, too. Leashed pets are also welcomed!
If you’re looking to spend your vacation around Cannon Beach, there’s plenty to see and do near the beach. Enjoy shopping and eating out. There are also a few accommodations close to the beach.
14. Cove Beach
Cove Beach is a sizable stretch of stunning shoreline that’s hidden by hilly forested areas. While driving along the Oregon Coastal Highway, you could easily miss this hidden spot. But if you’re careful, you might end up discovering a place that feels magically untouched.
Arriving at Cove Beach feels like you’ve found a piece of paradise. You’ll discover large basalt stones and soft yellow sands. At each end of the beach, you’ll spot amazing rock formations. At low tide, take a stroll and hunt for seashells. You can bring your pet along, too!
Since Cove Beach is tucked away, it’s often overlooked. This is what makes it so magical. To find the beach access, you’ll go downhill on Columbia Street and make your way to Tide Avenue. Take the cobblestone trail to paradise.
Looking to spend a few days at the beach? Book a room at the charming Arch Cape Inn located just a few minutes from Cove Beach and plenty of activities. If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’ll love this area!
15. Seaside Beach, Seaside
Seaside, Oregon is a small resort city home to some of the softest sands on Oregon’s coast. It’s also remarkable for its stunning views and cliff-lined bay. It makes for the perfect vacation destination because it’s also home to many hotels, restaurants, and exciting attractions.
Seaside Beach is huge and offers tons of fun in the sun! Take a swim, hunt for seashells and sand dollars, and watch native wildlife basking on the nearby rocks. There’s also a carousel for the little ones to enjoy.
In the evening, be sure to catch sunset views. There are also beach bonfires and you might even see the infamous ‘Bubble Man’ making his rounds blowing giant bubbles.
Be sure to check out views from the boardwalk, too. If you’re looking to change things up, go kayaking down the local Necancium River or visit the popular local aquarium.
The area is a family favorite. It also attracts couples and solo travelers. There are tons of accommodations and activities near the beach, too. Find multiple parks, an aquarium, and several trails to explore.
FAQ
Now that we’ve gotten the scoop on the best of Oregon’s beaches, let’s check out some common questions!
What is the nicest beach in Oregon?
To be honest, Oregon has many really nice beaches! The best part about the beaches on the Oregon coast is how unique they are. There are some incredible spots, from secret beaches and large tide pools to sea lions and sea stacks! Here’s a quick list of the nicest beaches in Oregon:
- Indian Beach
- Bandon Beach
- Nye Beach
- Hug Point Beach
- Arcadia Beach
- Moolack Beach
- Nelscott Beach
- Delray Beach
- Stonefield Beach
- Beverly Beach State Park
- Cobble Beach
- Ona Beach
- Tolovana Beach
- Cove Beach
- Seaside Beach
Are there swimmable beaches in Oregon?
That depends on your idea of swimmable! The Pacific Ocean on Oregon’s coast is quite chilly. The waters can also be rough. It’s crucial to know the conditions of the waters and the specific beach you’re going to if you plan to swim. Most beaches on the Oregon coastline are best for exploring, surfing, and relaxing on.
Are Oregon beaches warm?
Unfortunately, no. Water temperatures on the Oregon coast are usually in the 50s. With that said, the weather gets pretty warm in the summer making for the ideal weather to hang out at the beach without it getting too hot.
Are there pet-friendly beaches in Oregon?
Yes! One of the greatest things about Oregon’s beaches is how many of them are pet-friendly. In fact, most of the best beaches in Oregon allow you to bring your leashed pet.
Here are a few great spots to take a walk or hang out on the sand with your furry family member:
- Nye Beach
- Arcadia Beach
- Nelscott Beach
- Stonefield Beach
- Beverly Beach State Park
What is there to do in Oregon on vacation?
Aside from exploring beaches and stunning Pacific Ocean views, Oregon offers tons of exciting adventures for a vacation. It’s most known for its natural marvel so if you love the outdoors, you’ll be in heaven! There are forests, mountains, valleys, sea cliffs, lakes, rivers, and more.
There are countless parks in Oregon and a national recreation area in just about every corner for more outdoor adventures. Did you know Oregon is also home to the deepest lake? For a fun experience, check out Crater Lake, then head about 4 hours west to Bandon Beach.
Enjoy wine or beer? Oregon’s craft beer scene is incredible and local wine is also well-worth trying.
Oregon has so much to offer that it’s the best vacation spot for just about everyone! Whether you like adventure, relaxation, hidden gems, or bustling cities, you can find just about anything.
Final Thoughts
With so many incredible Oregon beaches, there’s truly something for everyone! Whether you’re looking to relax or get adventurous, you can find it on the Oregon coast. With hidden gems, unique landforms, and exciting beach towns, you’re sure to have a blast no matter which spot you pick.
We hope you’ve found your next beach destination on our list of Oregon beaches!
