Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Cleawox Beach sits within Honeyman State Park, where the Oregon Dunes reach their most dramatic expression—a Sahara-scale sandscape pressed against Douglas fir forests. You'll park near the lake, where families wade into water warm enough for actual swimming, a rarity on this famously frigid coast. The sand beneath your feet is fine as confectioner's sugar, squeaking audibly as you walk. Climb the dune ridge separating lake from ocean and you gain two beaches for the effort of one. The western slope drops toward the Pacific, where driftwood logs the size of shipping containers mark the high-tide line. Bring a sled or rent a sandboard from Florence—the dunes here offer fast, forgiving runs that end in soft landings. Wind reshapes the terrain weekly, erasing footprints and carving new ridgelines overnight. The lake itself runs shallow near shore, letting toddlers splash while older kids paddle rented kayaks. You'll find picnic shelters tucked into the pines, fire pits for evening s'mores, and restrooms that actually function. Come in September when the crowds thin but the weather holds, or brave a January storm to watch wind sculpt the sand into knife-edge ridges that glow copper in the low winter light.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Cleawox Beach.
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Cleawox Beach sits on Cleawox Lake, not the ocean, making it one of the safest swimming spots near Florence. The freshwater lake is calm, wave-free, and protected from coastal currents and undertows. The water is warmer than the Pacific Ocean, especially in summer months. A designated swimming area with a sandy bottom makes it ideal for families with children. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so supervise children closely. The lake's shallow entry and gentle conditions provide a safe alternative to Oregon's often-rough ocean beaches.
Cleawox Beach is accessible year-round, but summer (June-September) offers the warmest weather and best swimming conditions, with temperatures reaching 70-80°F and the lake warming to comfortable levels. Spring and fall bring fewer crowds and mild temperatures, perfect for beachcombing and photography. Winter can be rainy and cool but offers dramatic scenery and solitude. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends during peak season. Morning visits often provide calmer winds, while afternoons can bring coastal breezes. The beach is part of Honeyman State Park, which remains open throughout the year.
Cleawox Beach is located within Jessie M. Honeyman State Park, about 3 miles south of Florence on Highway 101. Take the well-marked park entrance and follow signs to Cleawox Lake day-use area. Ample parking is available in designated lots near the beach. An Oregon State Parks day-use permit is required ($5 per vehicle) unless you have an annual pass. The parking area is paved and accessible, with a short, easy walk to the beach. During summer weekends, arrive early as the lot can fill up by late morning.
Cleawox Beach is within Honeyman State Park, which offers 168 full-hookup campsites and 200+ tent sites, plus yurts for overnight stays. The park has restrooms, showers, and picnic areas but no restaurants or stores. Florence, just 3 miles north, offers numerous dining options, grocery stores, and hotels ranging from budget to mid-range. Old Town Florence features waterfront restaurants, cafes, and seafood spots. For beachside convenience, pack a picnic—tables and grills are available throughout the park. The nearest gas stations and markets are along Highway 101 near Florence.
Yes, Cleawox Beach sits adjacent to massive coastal sand dunes, making it a premier sandboarding destination. The towering dunes near the lake offer thrilling runs for sandboarders and sand sledders of all skill levels. You can rent sandboards from shops in Florence, typically $10-20 per day. The dunes provide a unique combination of beach and desert landscape. Many visitors enjoy swimming in the lake after sandboarding to cool off and rinse sand away. The juxtaposition of freshwater lake, forested areas, and enormous sand dunes creates a distinctive Oregon coast experience.
