7 of the Best Beaches in Oregon

Oregon is home to some of the most stunning stretches of beach on the Pacific Coast. Whether you’re after the iconic sea stacks, sky high cliffs or rolling dunes, the state’s coastal landscape can only be described as vast. And with the warmer months just ahead, many are eager to embark on a coastal getaway complete with good books, scenic hiking trails and divine seafood. No matter which category you fall into, we’ve got you covered. Here are the best beaches in Oregon.

7 of the Best Beaches in Oregon

 

1. Cannon Beach

Nothing is more iconic of Oregon’s coast than Cannon Beach. Famous for its mighty basalt sea stack known as Haystack Rock and miles of sandy beach, it’s really hard not to love Cannon Beach. Also located in the town of the same name, it’s one of Oregon’s most popular attractions. Along the shores you’ll also find a wide array of art galleries, restaurants and loads of local events.

2. Cape Kiwanda State Scenic Area

Tucked away on the southernmost cape on the Three Capes Scenic Route, you’ll find the Cape Kiwanda State Scenic Area. Home to some of the most spectacular stretch of sandstone cape beach in the state, Cape Kiwanda is in a league of its own. While there, be sure to climb the massive sandstone cape and make an afternoon of hiking to find the best views of the beach.

 

3. Secret Beach

While not really a secret at all, that doesn’t stop Secret Beach from making visors feel like they are in a world of their own. Located off a discreet hiking trail within the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, this southern Oregon beach is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Dotted with mind blowing vertical sea walls and towering sea stacks, the landscape is loaded with secret coves and lovers hideaways.

4. Seaside Beach

Located on the far northern coast not far from Portland, Seaside Beach is one of Oregon’s best. Here you’ll find a whole host of attractions along the beach; we’re talkin’ constant sand volleyball games in addition pop-up bars and food trucks. Plus, the famous Seaside Promenade and Seaside Aquarium that lures in family vacationers year after year. Other attractions include hiking and surfing meaning there’s something for everyone whether you’re more of a boardwalk beach goer or nature lover.

best beaches oregon

5. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

Offering a reprieve from the gorgeous cliff-strewn beaches which Oregon is known for, the Dunes National Recreation Area is a must. As one of Oregon’s most unique destinations, you’ll find pristine beaches sandwiched between ocean and forest that come together to create something truly beautiful. Not only that, but it is also one of the largest temperate coastal sand dune areas in the world. Be sure to carve out an afternoon to explore the beaches via dune buggy to truly immerse yourself in the surrounding landscape.

6. Gold Beach

Located near the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, the surrounding landscape of Gold Beach is as beautiful as the beach itself. It’s famous as one of Oregon’s most pristine natural areas and belongs on any beach itinerary. Take your pick from hooking your own salmon, lounging on the beach or hiking the surrounding seaside hills; either way Gold Beach always guarantees adventure.

best beaches oregon

 

7. Neskowin

This cosy beach town located on the Tillamook Coast is one of the most beautiful in Oregon. Not just for its lush forests and crystal clear waters, but for the natural phenomenon that occurs here. Along the eastern edge of the beach, you can see the convergence of Kiwanda and Neskowin creeks flowing directly into the ocean. If that weren’t enough, there are also tons of other natural attractions nearby such as Hart’s Cove and Cascade Head.

best beaches oregon

Melanie Hamilton

Melanie is an avid traveller with a passion for history and global foods. She is currently based in Tbilisi, Georgia where most of her time is occupied with qvevri wine and Soviet history. Having do-si-do'd her way across Europe and Latin America, she's enjoyed some of the world's most exciting places firsthand and can't wait to tell you about them.

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