The best beaches in the world
Oregon beaches stretch from the Washington to the California borders—a long ribbon of sandy beaches, crashing waves, and dramatic landscapes. The Oregon Coast runs for more than 350 miles along the Pacific Ocean and bays, while many rivers tumble into the ocean not far from the shore from the beaches of Astoria to Coos Bay and popular Seaside.
Beachcombers can certainly feel the sand beneath their toes, but they just may find sand dollars or a piece of sea glass too. The beaches also draw outdoor adventurers, buoyed by the wind and the waves. Others come to the coast to experience the charming towns along the way. Whatever your reason for visiting the western stretch or Oregon, you’ll be treated to some amazing views.
Most Oregon beaches have the distinction of being free to enjoy. You won’t have to worry about buying a badge or paying an entry fee to enjoy these natural wonders. Many of these beaches are watched over by Oregon Coast cities that keep the beaches clean and save. Others are part of state parks, national forests, or the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park—keeping the beaches protected for future generations. From Astoria in the north to Brookings in the south, these beaches are a spectacular place to connect with nature and step away from the every day.
The scenery changes as move along the coast. The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area stretches for 40 miles between Florence and Coos Bay. The mighty dunes are hundreds of feet tall at times, a challenging climb by foot and a lot of fun on ATV. The northern coast has beaches with stones, polished over time by the waves. In Cannon Beach, one rock dominates the scenery—Haystack Rock, just off the coast, towers 235 feet, providing a home to seabirds and other wildlife. Other Oregon Beaches are lined by towering pines and other lush landscapes.
Harris Beach Oregon is home to a wide, sandy beach and tide pools perfect for beachcombing. Located in Brookings—the southernmost Oregon Coast community—this state park is a year-round delight, a perfect place to slip away from it all and discover a place of rugged beauty, crashing waves, and seemingly endless blue skies. Harris Beach State [...]
Sunset Beach Oregon is located along the scenic Pacific coast—a part of Sunset State Recreation Area in Warrenton. This beach offers everything you’d expect for a stretch of beach, including sandy shores and sunny skies. But this beach also had a brush with history; it’s located at the trail head of the Fort-to-Sea route followed by Corps [...]
Bullards Beach, located along the southern Oregon coast, is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the seaside town of Bandon. With the Pacific to the west and forested hills to the other three directions, Bandon-by-the-Sea is a fitting home to one of the best Oregon beaches. Part of a state park, this pleasant beach is [...]