Oregon Coast Road Trip: Hidden Beaches You Shouldn’t Miss
The Oregon Coast, with its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming coastal towns, offers a picturesque road trip like no other. These ten hidden beaches are the gems of the coastline, each of them a treasure trove of local charm and breathtaking scenery. So, buckle up, we have a lot to discover!1. Short Sands Beach
Nestled between Oswald West State Park’s verdant forests, Short Sands Beach is a secluded paradise only accessible through a beautiful forest trail. It’s a popular spot among local surfers due to its waves’ favorable shape, but non-surfers will also enjoy the area’s tranquil beauty. Check local tide charts before visiting and be aware of Sneaker Waves while exploring.2. Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint
Don’t just breeze by the Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint sign on Highway 101. This hidden beach offers picnic spots with the Pacific as your backdrop, vibrant tide pools brimming with marine life, and during low tide, revealing a mesmerizing labyrinth of seastacks and arches. It’s spectacular in all seasons but is particularly interesting in the winter, when the waves churn up agates and shell fragments.3. Hug Point State Recreation Site
Just south of Cannon Beach, the Hug Point State Recreation Site offers an opportunity to step into a delightfully unspoiled beach, rich in history. Weave through sandstone caves, discover a hidden waterfall, even remnants of an old stagecoach trail, but always keep an eye on the rising tides, as this beach quickly becomes impassable at high tide.
4. Oceanside Beach
Oceanside Beach, tucked away near the Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge, is proof that good things come in small packages. This tiny coastal hamlet has an unspoiled beach with access to a hidden cove via a naturally carved tunnel – a delightful surprise for first-time visitors. Remember to bring a flashlight.5. Chapman Point
Situated on the northern end of Canon Beach, Chapman Point is less crowded than its southern counterpart but just as stunning. The breathtaking views of the Haystack Rock and The Needles are worth the slightly more challenging access. Visit during lower tides to explore its full beauty.6. Neptune Beach
Located just south of Yachats, Neptune Beach offers a timeless coastal experience, replete with wave-beaten cliffs, tide pools, and fresh sea breezes. This stretch is at its fullest during low tide, so plan your visit carefully to experience the sprawling sandy areas and tide pools.7. Ona Beach
Ona Beach is part of Brian Booth State Park which comprises Beaver Creek, so visitors can beachcomb, picnic, paddle, and fish in the same day. Bald eagles have been known to perch in wind-sculpted Sitka spruces overlooking the ocean, making strolls along Ona a magical experience.8. Lincoln Beach
Right between Depoe Bay and Lincoln City, the less-traveled Lincoln Beach has little treasures waiting to be discovered, like tide pools with starfish and sea anemones, and beautiful shell-encrusted rocks. Remember, Lincoln Beach State Recreation Site’s parking lot is small, so going early might ensure a parking spot.9. Winema Beach
Unlike most of the Northern coast beaches, Winema Beach is surprisingly quiet and uncrowded. Its flat shores invite long peaceful walks and wildlife sightings. The Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge situated nearby is a haven for bird watchers.10. Bayocean Peninsula Park
Bayocean Peninsula Park, also known as the ghost town, was once a booming resort town, but now, only its natural beauty remains. The beach features four miles of uninterrupted ocean views and solitude that can truly help one unplug from the world.That rounds up the ten hidden beaches that are waiting for you to explore on the Oregon Coast. So pack up your favorite book, your beach blanket, and your sense of adventure, and let the wind carry you away to these coastal gems. Safe travels and happy discoveries!