Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Oceanside Beach unfurls north from the fishing hamlet of Oceanside, hemmed by weathered basalt cliffs draped in salal and shore pine. The sand here is pewter-dark when wet, stamped with the tracks of sanderlings and the occasional river otter. Offshore, Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge rises from the chop—sea stacks colonized by thousands of common murres whose guano streaks the stone white. You'll hear their mewling chorus over the wind. The tunnel through Maxwell Point—hand-carved in 1927—delivers you to a quieter southern cove where driftwood logs stack like jackstraws and agate hunters crouch at the tide line, thumbing through gravel. The beach's western exposure means onshore winds most afternoons, kicking up spray that tastes of salt and kelp. Prepare for layer weather: fleece under your windbreaker, even in July. Year-round access means you'll share winter storm-watching days with locals who park along Pacific Avenue and watch swells hammer the rocks. Summer brings families to the protected stretches near the tunnel mouth, but the beach never feels crowded—just long, moody, and alive with the particular restlessness of the Oregon coast.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Oceanside Beach.
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Swimming at Oceanside Beach requires caution due to cold Pacific Ocean temperatures (typically 48-55°F year-round) and strong currents. Sneaker waves are a serious hazard along the Oregon coast and can occur without warning. There are no lifeguards on duty. Most visitors prefer tide pooling, beachcombing, and wading in shallow areas during low tide. Always keep children and pets close, never turn your back to the ocean, and check tide tables before exploring. The beach is better suited for scenic walks than swimming.
Oceanside Beach offers year-round beauty, but summer (June-September) brings the most reliable weather with temperatures in the 60s-70s°F, though morning fog is common. Late spring and early fall provide fewer crowds and pleasant conditions for beachcombing. Winter storms (November-February) create dramatic wave-watching opportunities but bring rain and wind. For tide pooling, visit during low tide periods, which vary daily. Sunset viewing is spectacular year-round, and the beach's west-facing orientation makes it particularly stunning during clear evenings.
Oceanside Beach is located off Highway 101, approximately 10 miles west of Tillamook via the Three Capes Scenic Loop. From Portland, it's about a 90-minute drive. Free public parking is available in a small lot at the end of Pacific Avenue in the village of Oceanside, though spaces fill quickly during summer weekends. Additional street parking is available on nearby residential streets. The beach access requires descending stairs. Arrive early during peak season or consider visiting on weekdays for easier parking.
Oceanside is a small coastal village with several dining options including Roseanna's Café, known for oceanfront views and seafood, and the Blue Agate Café. The town offers limited lodging including oceanfront vacation rentals and the Oceanside Beach Resort. For more extensive amenities, Tillamook (10 miles east) has grocery stores, gas stations, and chain hotels. Pacific City and Netarts, both within 15 minutes, offer additional restaurants and accommodations. It's advisable to make reservations well ahead, especially for summer weekends.
Yes, Oceanside Beach is famous for its hand-carved pedestrian tunnel through Maxwell Point, built in the 1920s. The tunnel leads to a secluded cove popular for tide pooling and exploring sea caves, but it's only safely accessible during low tide. Check tide tables before going, as high tide completely floods the tunnel and cove area. The tunnel itself is short and well-maintained. Beyond it, you'll find rocky outcroppings and caves perfect for exploration, but always monitor tide changes to avoid getting stranded.
