Are you feeling stressed, bored, or restless? Do you need a break from your daily routine and responsibilities? If so visit Oregon beaches to experience something new. Oregon beaches are some of the most amazing and diverse in the country, offering a range of scenery and activities for every taste and preference. So let’s dive into some of the beaches in Oregon that have so much to offer visitors.
Best Beaches in Oregon
1. Cannon Beach
Undoubtedly, Cannon Beach is one of the best beaches in Oregon for families with its vast shoreline and iconic Haystack Rock towering over it. During low tide, you can walk out to Haystack Rock and explore tide pools teeming with marine creatures or discover hidden sea caves. And when high tide rolls in, enjoy thrilling activities like surfing, kayaking, or parasailing. Don’t forget to visit Cannon Beach town nearby where charming shops, restaurants art galleries await.
2. Manzanita Beach
Looking for more peace and tranquility? Head towards Manzanita – a cozy small-town beach destination perfect for a quieter experience. Its 7-mile-long beach offers ample space for taking long seaside strolls, enjoying the sound of crashing waves. Moreover, nearby Nehalem Bay State Park and Neahkahnie Mountain offer even more delights with hiking trails, and wildlife viewing platforms with stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Portland Oregon Beaches
1. Seaside Beach
If you are looking for the Portland Oregon beaches, then head to the Seaside Beach (near Portland). It is suitable for families looking for an enjoyable yet affordable beach getaway experience. This Seaside boasts a lively boardwalk featuring ice-cream shops, and arcade gift stores – perfect for kids! Renting bicycles or surreys is also popular here. So, you can ride along a 2-mile-long promenade while enjoying refreshing ocean breezes. Besides, this wide sandy beach itself is ideal for swimming sunbathing kite flying.
2. Sauvie Island
If you prefer river beaches instead of ocean ones but still want to stay close to Portland cityscape, head towards Sauvie Island. It is located at the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. You’ll find various shoreline options here such as Walton Beach. It boasts sandy shores and shallow waters – ideal for families with young children.
3. Oceanside Beach
To experience another beautiful ocean beach near Portland visit Oceanside Beach. It offers stunning views of Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge. Besides, it hosts sea lions, tufted ducks, and puffins amongst other protected species. During low tide, explore Tunnel Beach – accessible through a basalt headland tunnel revealing hidden coves and tide pools waiting to be discovered.
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Best beaches in Oregon for families
If you are seeking the best beaches in Oregon for families with fun activities catering to all ages, Oregon has plenty of beach destinations
1. Lincoln City Beach
It’s one of the most popular family-friendly Oregon Beaches because it has something for everyone. Whether you want to swim, boat, fish, crab, or clam on its 7-mile shoreline – Lincoln City Beach offers it all. Don’t miss out on visiting nearby attractions such as the Lincoln City Outlets for shopping deals, Chinook Winds Casino Resort for entertainment, and Devils Lake State Recreation Area offering additional recreational opportunities.
2. Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area
This natural area showcases yet another Haystack Rock (not to be confused with Cannon Beach’s) and breathtaking coastal views. Hike up to the top of Cape Kiwanda and enjoy watching surfers ride big waves or take a trip to Bob Straub State Park, Pelican Brewing Company – Tillamook Creamery as they’re all located close by.
3. Nye Beach
For a charming beachside experience visit Nye Beach located in Newport – a historic beachside district offering cozy vibes and beautiful sandy shores. Take leisurely strolls along the beach while witnessing stunning sunsets or explore attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, and Newport Historic Bayfront which are all within reach.
Warm Beaches in Oregon
While Oregon isn’t known for its warm beaches due to cold water temperatures year-round, there are still some relatively warmer options available especially towards southern parts of the state:
1. Harris Beach State Park
Located in Brookings – considered the warmest coastal city in Oregon due to what locals refer to as the “Brookings Effect” involving flows of warm dry air. Harris Beach offers clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boating activities. Make sure not to miss Bird Island which serves as the largest island off Oregon’s coast and National Wildlife Sanctuary at the same time.
2. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
This scenic area stretches across 12 miles along the coastline providing multiple beach options. These include Lone Ranch Beach, Whaleshead Beach, and Indian Sands Beach amongst others with calm inviting waters. These places are ideal for activities like swimming kayaking paddleboarding. Additionally, visitors can enjoy hiking trails and viewpoints of natural arches found along the corridor.
3. Gold Beach
If you’re seeking a warm sunny beach experience head towards Gold Beach. It is a charming town with wide sandy shores perfect for sunbathing picnicking or playing beach games. While here, make sure to take advantage of other exciting activities such as fishing, jet boating, rafting on the Rogue River, or visiting attractions like Prehistoric Gardens, Otter Point State Recreation Site, and Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor.
