Craving ocean views, wild rivers, and coastal adventure? Head to Gold Beach! Nestled along Oregon’s rugged southern coast, Gold Beach is a laid-back destination where the Rogue River meets the Pacific. It’s perfect for fishing, jet boating, hiking, and simply unplugging in one of the most scenic spots on the West Coast.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gold Beach is from May through October. Summer brings sunshine and ideal conditions for hiking, river tours, and beach days. Fall offers cooler weather, fewer crowds, and excellent salmon fishing.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Located along US Highway 101, Gold Beach is about 2.5 hours southwest of Grants Pass and 5 hours south of Portland.
  • By Plane: The closest airports are Rogue Valley International (MFR) in Medford (about 3 hours) or Jack McNamara Field (CEC) in Crescent City, CA (about 1.5 hours).
  • By Bus: Limited public transit is available via Southwest POINT or Greyhound to nearby towns—car travel is best for flexibility.

Where to Stay

  • Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge – Luxurious riverfront lodge with stunning views, elegant rooms, and exceptional hospitality on the Rogue River.
  • Pacific Reef Hotel – Ocean-view rooms just steps from the beach, with a scenic light show and easy access to Highway 101.
  • Gold Beach Inn – Comfortable, budget-friendly accommodations with ocean-facing hot tubs and beach access.

Top Attractions

⮕ Rogue River Bridge

Walk along this iconic bridge and admire scenic coastal sights on a quick trip.

Rogue River Bridge

© davidrh/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Rogue River Bridge?
    • The Rogue River Bridge, also known as the Isaac Lee Patterson Bridge, spans the mouth of the scenic Rogue River along the Oregon Coast Highway (US 101).
  • Where is the Rogue River Bridge located?
    • The bridge is located at milepost 327.64 on US 101, between Wedderburn and Gold Beach.
  • Is the Rogue River Bridge historically significant?
    • Yes, the bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005 and was designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1982.
  • Why is the Rogue River Bridge a popular attraction?
    • The bridge offers stunning views of the Rogue River and surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for photo opportunities and taking in the natural beauty of the Oregon coast.

⮕ The Mary D Hume

See this historic steamboat and discover an unusual attraction perfect for a weekend stop.

The Mary D Hume

© MelissaMN/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Mary D. Hume?
    • The Mary D. Hume is a historic steamboat built in Gold Beach in 1881, which saw nearly one hundred years of active service.
  • What was the Mary D. Hume used for?
    • The ship, owned by businessman R.D. Hume, was originally used to haul goods between Oregon and San Francisco before becoming a whaling vessel in Alaska.
  • How long was the Mary D. Hume in service?
    • The steamboat had the longest service time for a commercial vessel along the Pacific coast of the United States.
  • What happened to the Mary D. Hume?
    • The Mary D. Hume sank in the Rogue River in 1985 and was never removed.
  • Is the Mary D. Hume a historic landmark?
    • Yes, the steamer is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has become a tourist attraction.
  • Where is the Mary D. Hume located?
    • 29980 Harbor Way, Gold Beach, OR 97444

Where to Eat

⮕ Port Hole Cafe

Savor fresh seafood and enjoy river views during an affordable and easy coastal visit.

Port Hole Cafe

© Port Hole Cafe

  • What is the Port Hole Cafe?
    • The Port Hole Cafe is a family-owned and operated eatery in Gold Beach, Oregon, serving fresh and homestyle meals for over thirty years.
  • What kind of food does the Port Hole Cafe serve?
    • The cafe specializes in home-style food, offering dishes like home-baked pies, huge salads, fish and chips, and clam chowder.
  • Does the Port Hole Cafe use fresh ingredients?
    • Yes, they use in-season, fresh local seafood and fresh, not frozen burgers, ensuring high-quality meals.
  • What beverages are available?
    • The cafe offers an extensive selection of microbrews available on tap.
  • Is the Port Hole Cafe open daily?
    • Yes, the cafe is open daily, welcoming customers in a clean and family-style setting.
  • Where is the Port Hole Cafe located?
    • 29975 Harbor Way, Gold Beach, OR 97444
      Phone: 541-247-7411

If you are a first time visitor:

  • Jerry’s Rogue Jets – Take a thrilling jet boat ride up the Rogue River with wildlife views and water-splashing fun.
  • Otter Point State Recreation Site – Walk scenic headlands with dramatic cliffs and sweeping views of the Pacific.
  • Rogue River Trail – Hike or explore parts of this multi-day trail along the wild and scenic Rogue River corridor.
  • Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor – Drive or hike for panoramic coastal views and whale watching in season.

More Places to Eat

  • Spinner’s Seafood, Steak & Chop House – Upscale coastal dining with fresh local seafood and hearty entrees.
  • Barnacle Bistro – Cozy café serving creative sandwiches, salads, and Oregon-sourced dishes with a twist.
  • Gold Beach BBQ – Laid-back spot for smoky ribs, pulled pork, and down-home sides—perfect after a day outdoors.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Gold Beach Brew & Art Fest (September) – Celebrate Oregon craft beer and local art with tastings, music, and vendors.
  • Independence Day Fireworks (July 4) – Watch fireworks light up the Pacific with celebrations on the beach and river.
  • Rogue River Salmon Derby (Fall) – Join anglers from all over in this annual fishing competition and community event.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Gold Beach, Oregon:

  • Agness (30 min drive inland) – Remote riverside village perfect for fishing, rafting, or escaping into the forest.
  • Humbug Mountain State Park (25–30 min north) – Hike to the summit of one of Oregon’s tallest coastal peaks for epic views.
  • Myers Creek Beach (20 min south) – Iconic for rock formations, golden sand, and coastal photography just off the highway.
  • Arizona Beach (25 min) – A serene cove with tidepools, wildlife, and a quiet stretch of shoreline.
  • Rogue River Bridge (right in town) – Admire this Art Deco masterpiece and stroll the pedestrian walkway over the river.
  • Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint (20 min south) – Wind-swept beach popular with kiteboarders and wave-watchers alike.
  • Illinois River Trail (30 min east) – Access remote hiking trails and wild swimming holes in the Rogue-Siskiyou National Forest.
  • Brookings (45 min south) – A slightly longer drive for more dining, shopping, and access to the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor.
  • Gold Beach Books (in town) – Oregon’s largest bookstore on the coast, with thousands of titles and local art upstairs.

FAQ:

  • What makes Gold Beach a great destination?
    • Found along a part of the scenic Oregon Coast that is particularly known for its amazing scenery, Gold Beach and its surroundings make an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy in Gold Beach?
    • Visitors can experience saltwater fishing, jet boating, scenic overlooks, unique gardens, shipwrecks, delicious food, and more, making Gold Beach a place where people can explore nature and feel as if they've stepped back in time.
  • Is Gold Beach difficult to reach?
    • Some may say that Gold Beach is a bit difficult to reach, but that’s just a part of its charm.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Pacific Reef Hotel – A beachfront stay with stunning ocean views. Visit Otter Point State Recreation Site – Explore scenic coastal cliffs and hiking trails.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for outdoor adventures. Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge – A luxurious riverside retreat with peaceful surroundings. Take a jet boat tour on the Rogue River – Experience wildlife and rugged landscapes up close.
Fall (September-November) – Fewer tourists and beautiful autumn colors. Jot’s Resort – A comfortable stay with easy access to the river. Explore the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor – Drive along one of Oregon’s most breathtaking coastlines.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and stormy, great for dramatic coastal views. Gold Beach Inn – A cozy stay with oceanfront rooms. Watch winter storms roll in from the beach – A mesmerizing experience along the Oregon Coast.

Plan Your Trip