Explore the Best Beaches Near Portland, Oregon
Positioned at the confluence of two major rivers and under two hours from Oregon’s dramatic Pacific coastline, Portland, Oregon offers a unique beach town experience. From sandy spots perfect for sunbathing to surf breaks and scenic sea stacks that have attracted many, there is a little something for everyone.
When the sun is out and the mood strikes, don’t waste time figuring out where to go. Here are 7 of the best beaches near Portland, Oregon.
1. Cannon Beach
Charming Cannon Beach is one of the most popular beach towns on the Oregon coast. Several premier hotels cater to a fancier clientele, as do the town’s many boutiques and art galleries. During summer, the streets are ablaze with flowers. Lodging can be pricey, and the streets are often jammed: on a warm, sunny Saturday, finding a parking spot might take longer than expected, but there are several public lots available.
The town’s popularity is well-deserved; just offshore, the magnificent Haystack Rock is a magnet for beachgoers, providing excellent photo opportunities and tide-pooling prospects, while the wide, sandy beach stretches for miles.
2. Astoria
Named after America’s first millionaire, John Jacob Astor, Astoria is located at the 5-mile-wide mouth of the Columbia River and was the first US settlement west of the Mississippi. This city boasts a rich seafaring history, with its old harbor now home to chic hotels and fine dining establishments. Historical houses, particularly the lovingly restored Victorians, enhance the town’s charm.
Astoria has also served as the backdrop for iconic films such as The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop, which has attracted film buffs from around the globe. While some locations are off-limits, plenty of other film-related sites remain accessible to explore, including the old jail, which now houses a film museum.
3. Walton Beach and Collins Beach
About a 20-minute drive from downtown Portland is Sauvie Island, an agricultural haven providing an excellent respite from the city’s bustle. Its flat, 12-mile country-road loop is a popular spot for weekend cyclists. If you seek sandy shores, head to Walton Beach, located on the island’s eastern side, about 9 miles from the Sauvie Island bridge. Leashed dogs are welcome, but fires and camping are prohibited. For those interested in a clothing-optional experience, Collins Beach at the northern end offers a perfect option. Remember that a $10 parking permit is required, which can be obtained from the Fish & Wildlife office or an island store.
4. Newport
Home to Oregon’s largest commercial fishing fleet, Newport is a dynamic tourist city featuring several fine beaches and an acclaimed aquarium. In 2011, it became the Pacific Fleet Headquarters of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). The historic bayfront area brims with good restaurants and some quirky attractions, while the bohemian vibe of Nye Beach offers a friendly village atmosphere.
Newport is also a fantastic destination for surfers of all skill levels. Arrive early to catch the best spots at breaks like Otter Rock and Agate Beach. For those needing to rent equipment or book a surfing lesson, Ossies Surf Shop is an excellent local resource.
5. Yachats
Yachats (ya-hots) is one of the Oregon coast’s best-kept secrets, offering picturesque scenery along a rugged and windswept landscape. This charming town is tucked at the base of Cape Perpetua, providing a tranquil escape along a relatively undeveloped stretch of coastline. The 804 Coast Trail lines the town, allowing access to tide pools and stunning ocean views, extending south towards the scenic Cape Perpetua area.
The beaches around Yachats are small and secluded, perfect for observing tide pools and rocky promontories. This area has stunning shoreline features and is home to a variety of marine life, including starfish and sea lions.
6. Seaside
Oregon’s largest resort town, Seaside, attracts families and young adults seeking a fun and budget-friendly beach getaway. The town’s central area, filled with ice-cream shops, video-game arcades, and gift stores, is lively during summer weekends and holidays, taking on a carnival-like atmosphere.
Seaside offers excellent opportunities for surfers at Seaside Beach as well as nearby Short Sands Beach and Indian Beach. If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the largest amateur beach-volleyball tournament in the world, along with the Hood to Coast Relay race.
7. Manzanita
Manzanita is a laid-back beach resort known for its lovely white-sand beaches and a slightly upscale atmosphere compared to other coastal towns. Although smaller and less hyped than Cannon Beach, it offers a peaceful retreat, alongside various activities. Hiking up Neahkahnie Mountain rewards visitors with breathtaking coastal views.
Surfers and body boarders can easily access Short Sand Beach, while kayaking options are available just a short drive away in Wheeler, where the Wheeler Marina offers rentals for paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes.
