When daydreams of sandy beaches and sparkling blue water begin to wave into your mind, it may be time for a healthy dose of vitamin sea. With scenic viewpoints, gorgeous stretches of sand, and great surf, the Oregon Coast is the ideal choice for your next beach vacation. From renowned destinations to the best-kept secrets, we’ve put together a list of the best Oregon Coast beaches.
1. Lincoln City
With seven miles of pristine beaches, Lincoln City has been a long-time favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Take a morning stroll along the quiet shoreline at Roads End, or enjoy an afternoon dip in the ocean. There are several beach access points in Lincoln City, and many of them are just minutes from the best restaurants, shopping, and attractions. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for glass treasures along the shoreline. Between October and May, you may find (and keep) beautiful glass floats that are hidden along the stretch of beach between Roads End and Siletz Bay.
2. Lincoln Beach
Lincoln Beach is located just south of Lincoln City. From the sandy shores of Gleneden Beach to the rockier coastline around Fishing Rock, the terrain is both varied and breathtaking. If you are looking to escape the crowds, the quiet residential community of Gleneden Beach may be the ideal destination for you. If you are planning a romantic getaway or a family beach vacation, Bella Beach is another great option. This private neighborhood offers direct access to a pristine beach and is just a stone’s throw from Depoe Bay.
3. Beverly Beach
Are you looking to shred some waves? You’re in luck! The Oregon Coast is a renowned surfing destination, and Beverly Beach is one of the best places to ride some waves. With its sheltered cove, Otter Rock Beach is a great spot for beginners and longboarders. After a fun day on the water, head over to the south end of Beverly Beach to tour historic Yaquina Head. It’s Oregon tallest lighthouse!
4. Manzanita Beach
With 7 miles of immaculate beaches, Manzanita Beach is the coastal retreat that you’ve been dreaming about. Lounge on the beach and enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and Neahkahnie Mountain. Or, get out and explore miles of scenic hiking trails at nearby Nehalem Bay State Park. This small beach town is 25 miles south of Seaside and 25 miles north of Tillamook.
5. Neskowin Beach
There’s a very good reason that Neskowin Beach has been attracting families for generations. If you are searching for a quaint, yet classic beach town, keep this destination at the top of your list! This quiet community offers a secluded location that is just minutes from the main attractions. Filled with natural beauty and protected habitats, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to relax and reconnect with family during your stay. While you’re there, make sure to check out Proposal Rock Beach and the Neskowin Ghost Forest.
6. Seaside
For hundreds of years, beach-goers and adventure-seekers have been drawn to the beautiful shores of Seaside. Seaside, Oregon beaches are a prime destination for beachcombing and bird-watching. You’ll also find some of the best surfing conditions in the entire Northwest. Look for seashells, catch some waves, or simply sink your toes into the sand and chill. When you are ready to take a break from the surf and sun, spend an afternoon browsing through the shops and restaurants along the Seaside Promenade.
7. Gearhart
Just north of Seaside, Gearhart is a smaller beach town with a low-key feel. On any given day, you’ll find visitors and locals walking along the beach, enjoying an afternoon bike ride, or playing a round of golf or tennis. It’s a great option for guests who would like to experience beautiful beaches in a casual atmosphere.
8. Newport
Situated between the Coastal Mountains and Yaquina Bay, Newport is home to a wide array of beaches, a pair of beautiful lighthouses, and endless shops and restaurants. Located off the beaten path, Nye Beach is one of our favorite Newport, Oregon beaches. Whether you are interested in browsing through the local art galleries, enjoying fresh-caught seafood, or lounging on the beach, the options are endless!
9. Depoe Bay
If you are interested in fishing or whale watching while on vacation, then you must plan a visit to Depoe Bay. Known as the Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast, Depoe Bay is one of the most famous destinations in the area, and its beaches deserve a spot on our little list of top Oregon Coast beaches. There are many gorgeous beaches, oceanfront restaurants and shops, and observation points throughout this scenic beach town. You can even take a charter boat out into the ocean to get a closer look at the magnificent grey whales. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
10. Pacific City
With breathtaking landscapes and endless activities, Pacific City is the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts. This small, but upscale town is filled with natural beauty. Enjoy incredible views of the sand dunes, tide pools, and Haystack Rock. Pacific City beaches are also a prime destination for surfing. After a fun day in paradise, stop into one of the local seafood restaurants or grab some drinks at Pelican Pub.
11. Waldport
From boating and fishing to crabbing and wildlife viewing, Waldport has everything you need for a memorable beach vacation. Spend the day golfing at Crestview Golf Course, kayaking through one of the scenic bays, or relaxing on the beach with a good book. Located just 5 miles north of Waldport, Seal Rock offers secluded beaches and gorgeous tide pools – perfect for a romantic walk along the coastline. When you visit, you are likely to spot dozens of seals and sea lions!
12. Yachats
Regarded as the “Gem of the Pacific”, much of Yachats coastline is composed of rugged black basalt rock, the result of lava flows that occurred over 50 million years ago. Instead of sandy beaches, marvel at the rugged and untamed shores, and surging natural landmarks like Thor’s Well, Devil’s Churn, and Spouting Horn. Breathtaking views can be seen from Cape Perpetua just a few miles south of town. The town of Yachats also boasts some great galleries, shops, restaurants, breweries, and a botanical preserve.
13. Arch Cape
Nestled between Cannon Beach and Manzanita, Arch Cape offers a long stretch of shoreline that is a unique mix of sand, natural rock, and cobblestone rock. Enjoy the wild surf at Oswald West State Park, soak up the sun, or look for the hidden waterfall at Hug Point State Recreation Site. Arch Cape is just a short drive from many of the other Oregon Coast beach towns.
14. Oceanside
With sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Three Arch Rocks, Oceanside is an Oregon Coast paradise like no other. Tunnel Beach, Agate Beach, and Short Beach are all destinations to add to your itinerary if you are planning to stay in this charming beach town. We also recommend stopping into Roseanna’s Cafe for some of the most delicious seafood you will ever taste.
15. Rockaway Beach
As soon as you sink your toes into the pristine sand at Rockaway Beach, all of your worries will drift away. Located where the mountains meet the sea, Rockaway Beach boasts 7 miles of sandy shoreline and over 20 beach access points. It’s also a great spot for hiking, fishing, bird-watching, and exploring.
16. South Beach
Last, but definitely not least, South Beach offers a convenient location and a plethora of water sports. The South Beach jetty is a great spot for fishing, clamming, surfing, scuba diving, and even windsurfing. South Beach is also home to the Oregon Coast Aquarium, while Newport is just a short drive away. And that’s all 16 of our top Oregon Coast beaches!
See These Oregon Beaches For Yourself!
Now that you know where to find the best Oregon Coast beaches, it’s time to start planning your next vacation getaway! Meredith Lodging offers an impressive collection of vacation rentals along the Oregon Coast. From cozy beach condos to spacious oceanfront retreats, we can help match you to your perfect home-away-from-home. We even have pet-friendly options for those who are traveling with their four-legged friends! We can’t wait to welcome you!
