14 Best Beaches on the Northern Oregon Coast to Visit Now

The northern Oregon coast, where the rugged Pacific shoreline meets lush coastal forests, offers some of the most stunning and secluded beaches in the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you’re seeking a serene escape with panoramic ocean views or a vibrant stretch of sand perfect for family adventures or surfing, this coastline has something to offer every traveler seeking to explore the PNW coastline.

There’s much to see along the Oregon Coast, from dramatic cliffs overlooking beaches and windswept dunes to quaint seaside towns brimming with charm.

While it is easy to think you could cram in all the best beaches in northern Oregon into one or two days, I highly recommend taking your time on this trip, slowing down, and exploring the hot spots as well as the hidden gems. Believe me, you will be pulling over a lot. 

After spending weeks road-tripping along the Oregon Coast, we’ve put together this guide on the finest beaches in Northern Oregon from the historic town of Astoria to the charming city of Lincoln City.  

Each boasts its unique charm, breathtaking scenery, and opportunities for indulgence in nature’s grandeur. Get ready to discover the hidden gems and must-visit beaches that define the splendor of the northern Oregon coast.

*This ‘ beaches on the northern Oregon Coast’ post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

The Best Beaches in Northern Oregon

1. Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach, a crown jewel of the Oregon north coast, always amazes with its expansive sandy shores and iconic landmarks. It might just be the most beautiful beach in Oregon.

Most famous for Haystack Rock, a towering monolith rising 235 feet above the shoreline, this beach offers visitors an extraordinary natural spectacle.

At low tide, the area around Haystack Rock transforms into a vibrant marine garden, where tide pools brim with colorful starfish, sea anemones, and other coastal creatures. 

Beyond its natural beauty, Cannon Beach boasts an inviting, artsy town with boutique shops, fine and casual dining, brewpubs, and luxury accommodations, making it an ideal destination for travelers. 

The beach itself has easy access and is perfect for a stroll, kite flying, or simply basking in the coastal breeze while taking in the stunning views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.

The beach is particularly stunning at sunset as the sun showers the beach in golden light before disappearing into the Pacific Ocean. If you can, I’d highly recommend timing your visit to Cannon Beach in the afternoon so you can stay for sunset.

2. Indian Beach (Ecola State Park)

Tucked away within the lush pine greenery of Ecola State Park, Indian Beach is a secluded and serene haven on the northern Oregon coast. This hidden gem is framed by towering cliffs and dense coastal forests of Ecola State Park, offering a more intimate and tranquil experience compared to the more popular and larger, sandy beaches nearby. 

Accessible via a short, scenic drive through the park, Indian Beach is a favorite among surfers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful nature retreat.

The beach is known for its dramatic rock formations and sweeping views of the Pacific, with the offshore sea stacks adding to its wild and rugged charm. Tide pools along the shoreline reveal an array of marine life, making it a delightful spot for exploration, especially for kids. 

The surrounding hiking trails provide stunning vantage points of the coastline, making Indian Beach not just a destination for relaxation but also for adventure and discovery in one of Oregon’s most picturesque settings.

While in the area or when road-tripping the stunning Oregon Coast, don’t miss the beautiful Ecola State Park Overlook, just a short hike from Indian Beach and well worth the extra effort for the unbelievably stunning views.

The overlook offers panoramic vistas of the coast, including a breathtaking view of Crescent Beach and the lighthouse at Tillamook Rock, making it an ideal spot for soaking in the natural splendor of Oregon’s coastline.

3. Hug Point

Just south of Arcadia Beach, you’ll find Hug Point State Recreation Site, a hidden gem along the northern Oregon coast, known for its beautiful little beach. This small, picturesque beach is famous for its waterfall, which gracefully cascades down large boulders onto the sandy shore, creating a stunning and rare coastal feature. 

At low tide, the beach reveals a series of fascinating sea caves and rock formations, perfect for exploration and photography. The name “Hug Point” comes from the early settlers who had to “hug” the point closely while traveling the coastal stagecoach road, remnants of which can still be seen carved into the rocks. 

With its secluded atmosphere, scenic views, and enchanting waterfall, Hug Point offers a magical experience for a short stop, picnic, or quick walk, that’s both peaceful and captivating.

4. Short Sand Beach

Nestled within the verdant embrace of Oswald West State Park, Short Sand Beach, affectionately known as “Short Sands” or “Shorty’s,” is a beloved beach on the northern Oregon coast. This crescent-shaped beach, tucked away in a picturesque cove is surrounded by towering coastal cliffs and old-growth forests. 

A short walk through the forest leads to the beach, where the mingling scent of pine and salty ocean air creates a truly immersive natural experience. Short Sand Beach is a popular spot for surfers, drawn by its consistent waves, and for beachgoers seeking a peaceful place to relax, explore tide pools, or enjoy a picnic. 

The secluded location and lush surroundings make it feel like a hidden paradise, perfect for those looking to connect with nature and escape the more crowded coastal spots.

If you have time after exploring the beach, don’t miss the Cape Falcon Lookout Hike, whose trailhead begins just off the Oregon Coast Highway nearby. The short hike goes through dense pin forest before opening up for dazzling views of coastal Oregon. 

5. Manzanita Beach

Manzanita Beach, located along the northern Oregon coast, is a tranquil and expansive stretch of sand that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. 

Nestled beneath the majestic Neahkahnie Mountain, the beach provides stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, with seven miles of soft, sandy shoreline ideal for leisurely strolls, kite flying, and simply soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere. 

The quaint town of Manzanita, just steps from the beach, adds to the appeal with its charming boutiques, cozy cafes, and welcoming ambiance, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and a touch of local culture. 

Whether you’re watching the sunset behind the mountain, exploring the nearby trails, or enjoying the peacefulness of the wide-open beach, Manzanita offers a quintessential Oregon coast experience that’s both refreshing and unforgettable.

6. Nehalem Bay Beach

Nehalem Bay Beach, is another serene and scenic destination on the northern Oregon coast, very much worth a stop on an Oregon Coast road trip.

Stretching along the narrow sand spit that separates Nehalem Bay from the Pacific Ocean, this beach provides a peaceful retreat with stunning views of both the bay and the open sea. 

The area is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities, from beachcombing and picnicking to horseback riding along the shoreline. The gentle waves and quieter atmosphere make it an ideal spot for families and those seeking a tranquil escape. 

Just inland, the nearby Nehalem Bay State Park offers additional recreational opportunities, including camping, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, with the chance to spot seals, elk, and a variety of bird species.

7. Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach, one of the standout Tillamook beaches, offers natural beauty and classic coastal charm. This seven-mile stretch of sandy shoreline is ideal for beachcombing, kite flying, and leisurely walks, making it a favorite for families and visitors seeking relaxation.

The town itself has a traditional beach community vibe, with cozy cafes, quaint shops, and seafood restaurants enhancing its laid-back atmosphere. 

The iconic Twin Rocks, two sea stacks just offshore, add to the beach’s picturesque appeal. Whether watching the sunset, exploring tide pools, or riding the historic Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, Rockaway Beach is a great place that defines beaches near Tillamook Oregon.

8. Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint

Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, while not a beach itself, offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Oregon coast, making it a must-stop on any coastal road trip. 

Perched high on a dramatic cliff, this viewpoint provides sweeping vistas of the rugged coastline and the pristine beaches below, including the expansive sands of the Bayocean Peninsula and the Three Arch Rocks.

The cape is home to the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse, which adds a touch of historical charm to the stunning natural setting. 

Visitors can also explore the short hiking trails that lead to viewpoints of the iconic Octopus Tree, a unique Sitka spruce with a fascinating history.

The combination of natural beauty, wildlife viewing opportunities, and scenic overlooks makes Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint an unforgettable stop, offering a perfect pause to soak in the grandeur of Oregon’s coastline.

9. Tunnel Beach

Tunnel Beach, one of the Oregon coast’s hidden treasures, offers an adventurous and secluded experience for those willing to seek it out. 

Located near Oceanside, this small, picturesque beach is accessible through a unique man-made tunnel carved into the cliffside, giving the beach its name.

The short walk through the tunnel adds an element of mystery and excitement, leading visitors to a beautiful, often uncrowded stretch of sand framed by rugged cliffs and dramatic sea stacks. It’s also one of the best beaches in Tillamook, Oregon- ideal for those looking for some beach time after visiting the famous town.

The beach’s remote feel, combined with the stunning coastal scenery, makes it an ideal spot for photography, beachcombing, and quiet reflection. At low tide, tide pools reveal a variety of marine life, adding to the beach’s magic. It’s a great spot for a quick stop or a longer coastal walk. 

10. Oceanside Beach

Oceanside Beach, located just south of Tunnel Beach, is a charming and picturesque beach that perfectly captures the essence of the Oregon coast. 

This expansive beach is known for its broad, sandy shoreline and dramatic coastal scenery, featuring towering sea stacks just offshore, including the iconic Three Arch Rocks, which are part of a national wildlife refuge.

The beach is ideal for a leisurely stroll, with stunning views that change with the tides and weather, offering a different experience each time you visit.

Oceanside’s small, quiet community adds to the beach’s appeal, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from the more crowded tourist spots like Cannon Beach. The nearby cliffs provide opportunities for hang gliding, while the beach itself is popular for beachcombing, tide pooling, and simply relaxing by the ocean.

The combination of natural beauty, serene surroundings, and the quaint village vibe makes Oceanside Beach a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the northern Oregon coast. 

Make sure not to miss the beautiful Symons State Scenic Viewpoint just south of Oceanside, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the majestic Three Arch Rocks from a different perspective. 

11. Netarts Bay

Netarts Bay, a tranquil and lesser-known gem on the northern Oregon coast, offers a serene escape for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful coastal experience. 

Located between Cape Lookout and the town of Oceanside, this expansive estuary is a haven for kayaking, crabbing, and clamming, with its calm waters providing the perfect environment for these activities. 

The bay’s quiet beauty is complemented by its rich marine life, where seals, nesting seabirds, and other wildlife are frequently spotted, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts. 

The surrounding landscape, with its mix of sandy shores, tidal flats, and lush greenery, is ideal for exploration and relaxation or just a quick stop before continuing along the coast. 

12. Cape Lookout Scenic Viewpoint

Just south of Netarts and Tillamook, Cape Lookout Scenic Viewpoint is perched high on a rugged promontory along the northern Oregon coast and offers some of the most awe-inspiring vistas of the Pacific Ocean. 

This breathtaking viewpoint, part of Cape Lookout State Park, extends dramatically into the sea, providing visitors with sweeping panoramic views that stretch for miles along the coastline.

On a clear day, you can even catch glimpses of migrating gray whales as they pass by, adding a touch of wildlife magic to the already stunning scenery. 

The area is crisscrossed with hiking trails, including the popular Cape Lookout Trail, which winds through dense coastal forests and offers even more spectacular viewpoints along the way.

Whether you’re there for a quick stop or an extended hike, Cape Lookout Scenic Viewpoint is a place where the raw beauty of the Oregon coast is on full display, making it a much-loved stop on any Oregon Coast Itinerary.

Find out more on the Cape Lookout State Park website here. 

13. Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda, one of the three prominent capes along Oregon’s Three Capes Scenic Route, is a striking and dynamic destination that makes for a non-negotiable stop on Oregon’s Coast. 

Located near the town of Pacific City, Cape Kiwanda is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, which have been sculpted by wind and waves into fascinating formations, and its massive sand dune that invites adventurous souls to climb for panoramic views of the coastline. 

The cape’s proximity to the ocean makes it a popular spot for watching the powerful surf crash against the rocks, as well as for spotting dory boats launching directly from the beach—a local tradition in Pacific City.

The area is also a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, paragliding, and tide pooling. 

14. Neskowin Beach

Neskowin Beach, one of the best beaches on the Oregon coast, is a tranquil and enchanting escape from the busier tourist spots. Located in the quaint village of Neskowin, this beach is renowned for its unique and captivating features, most notably the “Ghost Forest”—a hauntingly beautiful collection of ancient tree stumps that emerge from the sand during low tide. 

These remnants of a long-submerged Sitka spruce forest, estimated to be around 2,000 years old, give the beach a mystical atmosphere that fascinates visitors. The beach itself is a wide, sandy expanse, perfect for leisurely strolls, beachcombing, or simply basking in the serene coastal ambiance.

Overlooking the beach is Proposal Rock, a lush, forested sea stack that adds to the area’s dramatic scenery and provides a striking backdrop for photography. During the summer, the gentle waves and relatively uncrowded shoreline make it an ideal spot for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat. 

The nearby Neskowin Creek meanders into the ocean, creating a picturesque setting where freshwater meets the sea. Neskowin Beach’s natural beauty, intriguing history, and serene environment make it a must-visit stop for the more intimate side of the Oregon coast.

Neskowin Beach is best visited at low tide so make sure to check the tide times before heading over. 

Check all tide times for the Oregon Coast here, via Tides & Currents. 

Which one of these Northern Oregon beaches will you visit? Do you have any questions or comments? Leave them below, I’d love to hear from you.

---

Make sure not to leave home without travel insurance. For the last few years, I’ve been using Safetywing Nomad Insurance for all my individual trips and digital nomad lifestyle and there’s no better company for all my insurance needs. Cover starts from as little as $42 per month. Get your quote below now.

FOUND THIS POST USEFUL? SHARE IT ON PINTEREST