Explore the People’s Coast

At first glance, the Oregon Coast might seem like something from a storybook, with towering sea stacks, forest-covered headlands, secret coves, boisterous wildlife and shorelines that disappear into the horizon.

But anyone who has dug their toes into our sand knows: The Oregon Coast is real. It’s one of a kind. And it’s for everyone to enjoy.

Landmark legislation enacted in 1967, known as the Oregon Beach Bill, established free and public access to all 363 miles of Oregon coastline and up to 16 vertical feet above the low tide line. This uniquely makes Oregon one of the few states to protect the public’s recreational use of coastal land. It’s why we call this special place “The People’s Coast.”

Oregonians don’t take this for granted. They hit the trail. They try new water sports. They fish for dinner. And they tell their friends all about their great coastal adventures. Fortunately you can too. Here are a few of the ways to create your own stories at the People’s Coast.

Visit the State Parks

Not sure where to start? With 75 Oregon State Parks spanning the length of the Oregon Coast, from the mouth of Columbia River to the state’s southern border, it’s easy to discover some of the region’s most scenic and rugged stretches.

At the North Coast, take in diverse perspectives: at Fort Stevens, home to a Civil War military fort and a historic shipwreck; at Oswald West, where old-growth sitka spruce frame a sheltered cove; or along the Three Capes Scenic Loop, from the stunning Heceta Head Lighthouse, to the sheer basalt cliffs of Cape Lookout and the iconic Cape Kiwanda.

Along the Central Coast, a spirit for adventure reigns free: on the glassy waters of Devil’s Lake; from the prime ocean view at the Whale Watching Center; atop sandy shores home to razor clams at Agate Beach; or near the nation’s largest expanse of coastal sand dunes at Honeymoon Memorial.

The South Coast boasts an array of epic vistas: in between the blooming gardens of Shore Acres; below the massive rock formations at Face Rock; atop the green headlands of Port Orford Heads; at the secret cove beaches of Samuel H. Boardman and beyond.

Ride the Waves

Oregon might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about surfing. But the lack of fame doesn’t discourage locals from finding the surf breaks. (Just don’t expect them to share all their secret spots.)

You might hike through old-growth coastal forests or tall, grassy dunes and find yourself at a secluded cove dotted with surfers riding the waves. Feel free to watch, but if you want to join, you’ll need more than confidence to get started.

Newcomers to surfing at the Oregon Coast should come prepared. Your best bet is to get in touch with local guides. Oregon Surf Adventures in Seaside offers lessons and equipment to help you get wave-sliding in no time. Also out of Seaside, Northwest Women’s Surf Camps hosts female-focused multi-day retreats. Moment Surf Co. in Pacific City will get you ready to ride by Haystack Rock. In Lincoln City, Safari Town Surf Shop is your go-to place for surf equipment rentals and lessons. Newport’s Ossies Surf Shop also caters to newbies, as does Waxer’s Surf Skate Shop in Coos Bay, to name a few.

Catch Your Dinner

For anyone who loves eating fish and shellfish, the Oregon Coast is the ultimate foodie’s paradise. With hundreds of seafood restaurants along the coastline — some of the best in the nation — you could take a trip solely focused on coastal cuisine.

But if you haven’t tried fishing, clamming or crabbing, you’re missing out on half the fun. Visit Oregon’s ocean, estuaries and bays with a crabber and you’ll find a whole new type of adventure. It could be as easy as dropping a pot in the Necanicum River in Seaside. Or join a boat trip with Kelly’s Brighton Marina on Nehalem Bay, where they’ll even cook the crab for you. Oregon’s outfitters will keep you informed on current regulations and best practices.

After all, dinner tastes better when you catch it yourself.