Beaches in Oregon – Rugged Coastlines, Sea Stacks & Pacific Northwest Beauty

Oregon’s coastline is one of the most breathtaking in the United States — a dramatic mix of
towering sea stacks, tide pools, forested cliffs, sweeping dunes, and peaceful sandy beaches.
Known for its raw natural beauty and year-round access, the Oregon Coast is perfect for travelers seeking
scenery, adventure, coastal towns, whale-watching, and unforgettable sunsets.

Why Visit Oregon’s Beaches?

  • All beaches are public and free under Oregon law
  • Gorgeous landscapes with sea stacks, dunes, cliffs, and tide pools
  • Great for scenic drives along Highway 101
  • Charming coastal towns like Newport, Cannon Beach, and Seaside
  • Year-round beauty — stunning even in winter storms
  • Top destinations for photography, hiking, and wildlife watching

Best Beaches in Oregon

From iconic postcard-perfect shores to quiet, untouched stretches of coastline, here are the
must-see beaches along the Oregon coast:

Cannon Beach

Home to the famous Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is one of the most iconic and photographed beaches
in the Pacific Northwest. Perfect for tide-pooling, sunsets, and scenic walks.

Seaside Beach

A classic beach town experience with a boardwalk, wide sandy beach, trails, shopping, and
plenty of family-friendly activities.

Newport (Nye Beach & Agate Beach)

A mix of artistic charm, great surf, lighthouses, marine life, and scenic coastal cliffs.
Newport is one of Oregon’s most beloved coastal destinations.

Lincoln City Beach

Known for its long stretch of sandy shoreline, kite-flying, whale watching, and the Glass
Floats treasure hunt each winter and spring.

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area

A stunning mix of sand dunes, rugged cliffs, and crashing waves. This is one of Oregon’s
most dramatic coastal viewpoints.

Bandon Beach

A photographer’s dream with massive sea stacks, misty mornings, wide sandy beaches, and
unforgettable sunset views.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

One of the largest coastal dune systems in the world. Perfect for dune buggy rides, hiking,
sandboarding, and wide-open beach exploring.

Manzanita Beach

Quiet, scenic, and peaceful. A favorite for travelers seeking relaxation and spectacular
mountain-meets-ocean views.

🎡 Things to Do Along the Oregon Coast

  • Explore tide pools at Cannon Beach & Newport
  • Drive the scenic Highway 101 coastline
  • Visit lighthouses like Yaquina Head & Heceta Head
  • Watch for whales during winter and spring migrations
  • Experience dune buggy adventures at Oregon Dunes
  • Hike coastal cliffs at Ecola State Park
  • Enjoy fresh seafood in charming coastal towns
  • Photograph iconic sea stacks at sunset

Best Time to Visit Oregon’s Beaches

Summer (June–August) – Comfortable temps, great for exploring & sightseeing.

Fall (September–October) – Beautiful sunsets, mild weather, fewer crowds.

Winter (November–February) – Dramatic storm watching & peaceful beaches.

Spring (March–May) – Whale watching and blooming coastal landscapes.

Oregon Coast Tips

  • The Oregon Coast is cool year-round — bring layers.
  • Beware of sneaker waves; stay aware near the water.
  • Check tide schedules for tide pooling and beach walks.
  • All beaches are public and free.
  • Winter storms create incredible photo opportunities.

Explore All Oregon Beaches Below

Browse our complete directory of Oregon beaches including Cannon Beach, Seaside, Newport, Bandon, Lincoln City, and more:

All Oregon Beaches

Â