Oregon Coast Road Trip: Hidden Beaches You Shouldn’t Miss
Ah, the vast, soul-soothing expanse of the Oregon Coast! There’s an allure to its rugged beauty, tide-carved cliffs, and secret sandy coves. Here, our incredible landscapes are untouched and brimming with abundant marine life. And like a native Oregonian, keen on revealing the whispers of this coastal wonder, we give you our curation of 10 hidden beaches you shouldn’t miss on your Oregon Coast road trip.1. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Nestled along Highway 101, this stretch of coastline is peppered with secluded bays and dramatic views. Start your journey at Arch Rock viewpoint and follow the Oregon Coast Trail through dense coastal forests to find secluded beaches like China Beach and Indian Sands. Explore tidepools and look out for resident sea stacks.2. Short Sand Beach
Hidden within Oswald West State Park, it’s a brief trek through old growth Sitka Spruce to reach this haven. Often overlooked for the more popular Cape Falcon trail, this mystical cove is where surfers ride waves beneath towering cliffs.3. Cape Meares Beach
Pause at the famous Octopus Tree before descending to Bayocean Spit, a narrow finger of sand separating Tillamook Bay from the Pacific. The beach here is refreshingly quiet, free of boardwalk-style attractions yet rich in wildlife and drifting by-the-wind sailors.
4. Cobble Beach
Beneath the Yaquina Head Lighthouse in Newport, lies a unique cobbled beach. Walk on round basalt rocks that ‘clink’ underfoot, an unusually satisfying sound as you keep an eye out for glimpses of seals and tidal life forms in the rocky crevices.5. Oceanside Beach
This small hamlet located west of Tillamook is a quaint beauty. Cross through the tunnel to find an isolated stretch of sand, aptly named Tunnel Beach. Catch sight of the Three Arch Rocks while hunting for tumbled agates, uniquely strewn across the sand.6. Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint
This unsung gem between Yachats and Florence offers glorious views of the Oregon coast with picnic spots surrounded by rugged forest. Here, you can explore tide pools during low tide or comb the beach for beautiful, occasionally luminescent, jasper stones.7. Cape Blanco Beach
Drive down from Oregon’s westernmost tip to discover Cape Blanco’s sprawling beach. The lighthouse standing sentinel on the cliff edge enhances the raw beauty of this secluded spot. With seldom a crowd in sight, watch for migrating gray whales in peace.8. Hug Point State Recreation Site
Just south of Cannon Beach, Hug Point offers caves, waterfalls, and a historic stagecoach road to amble on during low tide. Explore the North Coast tide pools by following the advice of those’d in the know: look, but don’t touch.9. Whaleshead Beach
Located just north of Brookings, the beach gets its name from a rock formation that, when the tide comes in, spews water like a whale. Enjoy a picnic at one of the shelters overlooking the ocean, or let your gaze wander over the intricate driftwood sculptures the ocean has artfully scattered.10. Myers Creek Beach
South of Gold Beach, Myers Creek Beach reveals breathtaking sculptures of eroded sea stacks against dramatic sunsets. Its high vantage point on Highway 101 is perfect for whale watching, while exploring the tide pools at this stunning spot is an applauding finale to your hidden beach tour.And there we have it. By unlocking these doors to Oregon’s hidden beaches, you’ll not only venture off the typical path but you’ll immerse yourself in experiences exclusive to our beautiful coastline. Remember to pack out what you packed in, respecting these treasured spots for generations to enjoy. Meanwhile, keep wandering, keep discovering, Oregon is waiting!