Best Summer Beach Destinations in Portland, Oregon, United States

Portland, United States, Portland, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Best Summer Beach Destinations

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.