The 10 most beautiful beaches in Oregon

13.07.2024 - 02:04 / lonelyplanet.com

Jul 6, 2024 • 8 min read

Though it may not spring to mind when you're daydreaming about classic all-American beaches, Oregon has 363 miles of rugged coastline dotted with some incredibly beautiful stretches of sand, dramatic headlands and prime surfing. Not only that, this stretch of coastline has been protected from development and designated as The People's Coast.

Since the Beach Bill was passed in 1913, the state's beaches, coves, and coastline have been reserved as public lands for the enjoyment of Oregonians. From the northern beach towns of Astoria and Cannon Beach to the central coast dotted with lighthouses and dramatic dunes to the warm "banana belt" of Southern Oregon that's sunnier and milder than its siblings, there's a little something for everyone on the People's Coast. 

If you're having trouble deciding which beach is right for you, don't worry. We've chosen 11 of our favorites so you can start planning your trip today.

Best beach for birdwatching

Charming Cannon Beach is one of the most popular beach towns on the Oregon coast, thanks in large part to its iconic symbol – Haystack Rock. This beautiful hulking monolith rises 235ft out of the sands and has had cameos in several movies. It's part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge and home to a variety of seabirds, including the charmingly cute tufted puffin. 

During low tide, you can walk out to the rock and investigate tide pools (though you should never remove anything from them) and sea caves. In summer, volunteers are on hand to help protect the area and provide information.

When the waves are up, rent a board and wetsuit from the Cleanline Surf Shop – a friendly local spot that rents out boards and wetsuits and can give advice on good places to surf. Or you can take part in Cannon Beach's largest festival, Sandcastle Day (typically held in June, dates depend on tides), which has teams competing for originality and execution in sand sculpture.

Best beach for a fun carnival atmosphere

Oregon's largest resort town is popular, gaudy and unpretentious Seaside, which attracts families and young folks looking for a fun and affordable beach getaway. On summer weekends and during holidays or festivals the town's central precinct – dominated by ice-cream shops, video-game arcades and gift stores – is thronged with tourists and takes on a carnival-like atmosphere.

Bicycles and surreys have the run of Seaside's two-mile boardwalk (known locally as The Prom) but most of the miles of sandy beach are relatively peaceful. Join the pedaling hordes on the promenade by renting bikes and four-wheel surreys at Prom Bike Shop. For advice on where to hit the waves, there's Cleanline Surf Company. During spring break, expect a wilder party