Top 15 Best Beaches on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is home to some of the scenic beaches in the United States, each with its own unique features and attractions. Whether you're looking for breathtaking views, adventurous activities, or a peaceful escape, the Oregon Coast has something for everyone. In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 15 best beaches “as we see it” on the Oregon Coast! This best beaches list is complete with a brief overview of what makes each beach special. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the stunning coastline of Oregon! ere are the top 15 best beaches on the Oregon Coast that every traveler should add to their itinerary.

1. Cannon Beach is one of the most iconic and popular beaches on the Oregon Coast. It's famous for its massive Haystack Rock and miles of pristine sand. Located 90 minutes from Portland, Cannon Beach offers a charming downtown with galleries, shops, and restaurants. Take a stroll on the beach, hike in Ecola State Park, or relax and take in the stunning views.

2. Meyers Beach is a hidden gem that offers a secluded and serene experience. Located near Port Orford, this beach is accessible by a short hike through the coastal forest. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by a stunning stretch of sandy beach with impressive sea stacks and tide pools. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic, beach-combing, or a refreshing swim.

3. Nye Beach is a charming and historic neighborhood in Newport, Oregon, with a beautiful sandy beach. The beach is framed by the Nye Beach district, which is known for its historic buildings, eclectic shops, and delicious dining options. Visitors can also explore the Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Newport's renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium.

4. Cape Kiwanda State Scenic Area Located in Pacific City, this beach is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The beach is known for its towering sand dunes, massive waves, and stunning views. Visitors can also hike the Cape Kiwanda Trail for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Haystack Rock.

5. Bandon Beach is a hidden gem that offers dramatic landscapes and unique rock formations. The beach is located in the charming town of Bandon and is known for its sea stacks, tidal pools, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also explore the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and hike in the nearby Bullards Beach State Park.

6. Lone Ranch Beach is a secluded and picturesque beach that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located near Brookings, this beach is known for its stunning cliffs, tide pools, and rocky shoreline. Visitors can also hike the Oregon Coast Trail and enjoy stunning views of the ocean.

7. Roads End State Recreation Site is a popular destination for families and beachgoers who are looking for a fun and relaxing day at the beach. The park is located in Lincoln City and offers a large sandy beach, picnic areas, and easy access to tide pools. Visitors can also explore the nearby Devil's Lake State Recreation Area and hike in the Cascade Head Scenic Research Area.

8. Short Sand Beach is a secluded and stunning beach that is located in the Oswald West State Park. The beach is known for its pristine sand, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also hike the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain trail for panoramic views of the coastline.

9. Hobbit Beach is a magical and enchanting destination that is located in the Heceta Head State Park. The beach is accessible by a short hike through the coastal forest, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Heceta Head Lighthouse. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic, beach-combing, or a refreshing swim.

10. Gleneden Beach is a charming and quiet beach community located just south of Lincoln City. The beach itself is a long, wide expanse of sand that stretches for miles, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or jog. It's also a popular spot for surfers, with consistent waves throughout the year.

11. Harris Beach located in Brookings on the southern Oregon Coast, this beach is known for its stunning rock formations, tide pools, and sandy beaches. Visitors can explore the nearby tide pools at low tide, walk along the beach, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the coastline. The beach is also a popular spot for camping, with a nearby campground that offers easy access to the beach and hiking trails in the area.

12. Manzanita Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach located in the small town of Manzanita. The beach features a long stretch of sand and a gentle surf, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Visitors can also explore the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain for stunning views of the coast and the surrounding forests.

13. Seaside Beach is a popular destination for families, with a variety of activities available for visitors of all ages. The beach itself is a long stretch of sand that's perfect for beach-combing, sandcastle building, and playing in the surf. The nearby Seaside Promenade offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions, including an arcade and an aquarium.

14. Arizona Beach is a small, secluded beach located just south of Port Orford. The beach is known for its stunning rock formations and tide pools, which offer a glimpse into the unique marine life of the area. Visitors can also explore the nearby Cape Blanco State Park or take a short drive to the historic town of Port Orford.

16. Neskowin Beach is a quiet, picturesque beach located just north of Lincoln City. The beach features a long stretch of sand, a gentle surf, and stunning views of Proposal Rock, a unique rock formation located just offshore. Visitors can also explore the nearby Neskowin Marsh or take a short drive to the nearby town of Pacific City for stunning views of Haystack Rock.

Many people ask what the nicest beach in Oregon is? The answer to this question depends on personal preference. Each beach on the Oregon Coast has its own unique features and attractions, and what one person considers the "nicest" beach may be different from another person's opinion. However, many people consider Cannon Beach to be one of the prettiest beaches on the Oregon Coast, with its stunning rock formations and iconic Haystack Rock. Haystack Rock is one of the most photographed locations in Oregon and has been featured in many movies. Another very beautiful beach is Cape Kiwanda State Park in Pacific City Oregon. This beach has it all from sand dunes, boats, surfing, and one of the best photography locations on the Oregon Coast. There’s also a number of other beaches down the coastline that one could argue are just as nice. It’s really a matter of personal presence.

Another question we get often is, “what is the warmest beach on the Oregon Coast?” The answer depends on the time of year, but during the summer months beaches with “North wind block” will tend to be warmer than beaches open to the South. In the winter the opposite is true. With that being said, the water temperate on the Southern Oregon Coast at places like Harris Beach in Brookings tends to be slightly warmer due to its proximity to the California border. 

Furthermore, many folks want to know what the cutest town on the Oregon Coast is? Some of our favorites are downtown Bandon, Nye Beach in Newport, Yachats, Manzanita, and Cannon Beach.

The Oregon Coast is truly a gem of the Pacific Northwest, with its rugged coastlines, stunning rock formations, and breathtaking views. From the charming town of Cannon Beach to the secluded Neskowin Beach, each of the top 15 best beaches on the Oregon Coast has its own unique character and appeal. Whether you're a seasoned beach-goer or a first-time visitor, the Oregon Coast has something for everyone to enjoy. So, if you're planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, be sure to add the Oregon Coast to your itinerary and discover all that this stunning coastline has to offer.