After 25 years of writing about coastal escapes, Oregon’s beaches still leave me in awe—and I think they’ll do the same for you. If you’re craving moody skies, salty air, and endless sand to wander, this is the coastline I always come back to. I’ve watched the fog roll over cliffs, chased the tides through tide pools, and stood still for sunsets that seemed to stretch forever. Let me share my favorite Oregon beach spots so you can soak in every wild, windswept moment.

Highlights:

  • Marvel at Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach: I’ve stood in its shadow during golden hour—you’ll want your camera ready and your shoes off.
  • Explore the rugged coastline of Bandon Beach: I love scrambling around the sea stacks here, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a dreamscape of sand and stone.
  • Stroll the historic promenade at Seaside Beach: I’ve grabbed coffee and walked this path more times than I can count—it’s a perfect mix of old-time charm and beach-town fun.
  • Discover tide pools at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area: I crouched down to spot starfish and sea anemones, and I promise you’ll be just as mesmerized by this tiny, colorful world.
  • Take photos of the sea stacks at Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint: I always stop here at dusk—the views are surreal, and your photos will look like something out of a storybook.

Best Beaches in Oregon:

Cannon Beach - 1.5 hours west of Portland, OR

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Cannon Beach - 1.5 hours west of Portland, OR - Photograph Haystack Rock and stroll the shore on a romantic spring evening.                                     

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area  - 40 minutes south of Newport, OR

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Cape Perpetua Scenic Area - 40 minutes south of Newport, OR - Hike forested headlands and watch waves crash during a fall trip.                                     

Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park - 20 minutes south of Yachats

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Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park - 20 minutes south of Yachats - Walk coastal trails and camp near the beach with family.                                     

Clatsop Spit - 30 minutes from Astoria

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Clatsop Spit - 30 minutes from Astoria - Explore wide beaches and watch wildlife on a quiet winter day.                                     

Cobble Beach, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area - just north of Newport, OR

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Cobble Beach, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area - just north of Newport, OR - Search tide pools and view the lighthouse on a quick outing.                                     

D-River Wayside - 2 hours west of Salem

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D-River Wayside - 2 hours west of Salem - Watch the world’s shortest river and enjoy a cheap beach picnic.                                     

Harris Beach State Park - Just north of Brookings, OR

Courtesy of Sherri Camp- Fotolia.com

Harris Beach State Park - Just north of Brookings, OR - Go tidepooling and hike dramatic sea stacks during a summer getaway.                                     

Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint - 20 minutes south of Yachats

Courtesy of Jamie Hooper- Fotolia.com

Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint - 20 minutes south of Yachats - Tour the historic lighthouse and picnic with kids near the cliffside.                                     

Horsfall Beach - 2 miles north of Coos Bay

Courtesy of BillionPhotos.com - Fotolia.comSatoshi Kina

Horsfall Beach - 2 miles north of Coos Bay - Ride sand dunes and walk the quiet shore during a spring adventure.                                     

Lincoln City Beach

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Lincoln City Beach - Fly colorful kites and explore shops on a weekend retreat.                                     

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)