
Best Summer Beach Destinations in Portland, Oregon, United States
1. Cannon Beach
A picturesque coastal town known for its iconic Haystack Rock, offering tide pool exploration and stunning sunsets.
- Tide Pool Adventure: Explore marine life at low tide in the unique tidal pools.
- Haystack Rock Viewing: Enjoy close-up views of seabirds nesting on this famous landmark.
- Artistic Atmosphere: Browse art galleries and craft shops in the charming downtown area.
2. Oswald West State Park
A nature lover's paradise with miles of hiking trails leading to hidden beaches like Short Sands.
- Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore a variety of wooded paths with breathtaking ocean views.
- Hidden Beaches: Discover secluded beaches like Short Sands, perfect for relaxation.
- Surfing Opportunities: Experience the thrill of surfing on the park's stunning coastline.
3. Ecola State Park
Offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby sea stacks like Tillamook Rock.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas from various viewpoints throughout the park.
- Historic Lighthouse: Learn about the area's maritime history at Tillamook Rock Lighthouse.
- Sea Stack Exploration: Witness the unique geological formations along the shoreline.
4. Basketball Beach
A popular beach for volleyball and other sports, as well as picnicking with a view of the ocean.
- Sports Activities: Join recreational games or practice your own skills on the beach.
- Picnicking Opportunities: Relax and enjoy a meal at one of the many picnic areas nearby.
- Beautiful Ocean Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean while you play or unwind.
5. Pacific City
A charming beach town with Cape Kiwanda and its unique Haystack Rock offering scenic views and recreational activities.
- Haystack Rock Exploration: Explore the fascinating geological feature up close.
- Cape Kiwanda Hiking: Take a scenic hike along the cliffs and explore the surrounding area.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy the stunning coastal drive to reach this picturesque destination.
6. Fort Stevens State Park
Historic fort ruins combined with miles of sandy beaches and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Historical Fort Ruins: Explore the remains of a World War II-era coastal defense installation.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot birds, deer, and elk in their natural habitat.
- Beach Activities: Relax on the beach, go fishing, or explore tide pools.
7. Roberts State Recreation Area
A tranquil beach destination perfect for picnicking, swimming, and boating.
- Picnicking Opportunities: Enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the many scenic picnic areas.
- Swimming and Boating: Take a refreshing swim or rent a boat to explore the lake.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful views of the Columbia River and surrounding hills.
8. Cape Lookout State Park
A serene coastal park offering stunning ocean vistas, hiking trails, and camping opportunities.
- Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore various wooded paths with breathtaking ocean views.
- Camping Opportunities: Enjoy a memorable camping trip surrounded by nature.
- Coastal Wildlife: Spot wildlife such as birds, seals, and even whales from the park's vantage points.
9. Seaside
A classic beach town known for its iconic Promenade and beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation.
- Promenade Stroll: Take a leisurely walk along the historic promenade.
- Beautiful Beaches: Relax and soak up the sun on Seaside's picturesque beaches.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy a variety of family-friendly attractions like arcades, mini-golf, and more.
10. Nehalem Bay State Park
A peaceful beach destination with camping, fishing, and miles of sandy shores.
- Camping Opportunities: Experience a relaxing camping trip surrounded by nature.
- Fishing and Crabbing: Cast a line for fish or go crabbing in the nearby bay.
- Beautiful Beaches: Relax on the peaceful sandy shores of Nehalem Bay.
11. Fort Clatsop National Memorial
Historic site where Lewis and Clark spent the winter of 1805-06, now offering a visitor center and scenic trails.
- Lewis & Clark History: Learn about the famous explorers' experiences at this historic site.
- Visitor Center: Discover exhibits and artifacts related to Lewis and Clark's journey.
- Scenic Trails: Take a walk along the trails with stunning views of the Columbia River.
12. Jordan Creek Regional Park
A peaceful beach destination with picnicking, fishing, and scenic views.
- Picnicking Opportunities: Enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the park's scenic picnic areas.
- Fishing and Crabbing: Cast a line for fish or go crabbing in the nearby creek.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills and Jordan Creek.
13. Warrenton City Beach
A family-friendly beach with a boardwalk, picnic areas, and beautiful ocean views.
- Boardwalk Stroll: Take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk for stunning ocean views.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy various family-friendly activities like picnicking and beach games.
- Beautiful Ocean Views: Relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
14. Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
A scenic overlook with stunning ocean and birdwatching opportunities.
- Scenic Overlook: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the Cape Meares headland.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Spot various seabirds and migratory birds during your visit.
- Historical Octopus Tree: Visit the iconic Octopus Tree, a Sitka spruce with unique root formations.
15. Neahkahnie Mountain Viewpoint
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby sea stacks.
- Scenic Overlook: Enjoy breathtaking vistas from this picturesque viewpoint.
- Panoramic Views: Take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby sea stacks.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture unforgettable moments with your camera from this scenic spot.