If you’re planning a summer escape to Portland, Oregon, you might be surprised to learn that it’s not all about the city’s thriving food and arts scene. Portland also boasts some of the most scenic and picturesque beaches in the Pacific Northwest. From rugged coastlines to sandy beaches, there’s a beach for everyone’s taste.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for waves to ride or a family with young kids, Portland has a beach for you. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towels, and explore the best Portland beaches for your next summer escape. You won’t be disappointed with what you discover.

The Allure of Portland Beaches

Portland, Oregon may not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of beaches, but this Pacific Northwest city is home to some of the most beautiful and unique beaches in the United States.

From the iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach to the rugged cliffs of Cape Kiwanda, Portland’s beaches offer a breathtaking backdrop for relaxing, exploring, and enjoying the great outdoors.

Unlike many coastal destinations that can be overcrowded and touristy, Portland’s beaches are known for their tranquility and secluded atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a place to catch some waves, there’s a Portland beach that’s perfect for you.

Many Portland beaches offer much more than just sand and surf. Hiking trails, tide pools, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean are just a few of the attractions that make these beaches so special. And with mild temperatures during the summer months, it’s the perfect time to plan your next escape to one of Portland’s incredible beaches.

• Cannon Beach
• Manzanita Beach
• Oswald West State Park
• Cape Kiwanda
• Rockaway Beach

These are just a few of the many incredible beaches that Portland has to offer. So why not pack a picnic, grab a frisbee, and head to one of these beautiful destinations for your next summer getaway? You won’t be disappointed!

Best Beaches for Sunbathing

If you’re looking for a place to soak up some rays during your summer escape to Portland, these beaches are perfect for sunbathing:

• Cannon Beach – This picturesque beach is known for its iconic Haystack Rock, but it’s also a great spot to catch some sun. Plus, the town of Cannon Beach offers plenty of options for dining and shopping.
• Oswald West State Park – This secluded beach is surrounded by lush forests and dramatic cliffs, making it a serene spot for sunbathing. Plus, the park offers plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas to explore.
• Sauvie Island Beach – Located just outside of Portland, this beach offers miles of sandy shoreline and a peaceful escape from the city. Plus, the nearby wildlife refuge and pumpkin patches make it a unique destination for summer fun.

No matter which beach you choose, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and a good book to enjoy while you bask in the sun.

Best beaches for surfing

If you’re a surfing enthusiast and looking for adrenaline-fueled activities, then Portland’s beaches won’t disappoint you. Here are some of the best beaches for surfing:

• Short Sands Beach: Located in Oswald West State Park, this is one of the most popular surfing beaches in Portland. The waves here are perfect for beginners and experts alike.
• Seaside Cove: This is another great spot for surfing in Portland. The waves here can be quite intense, making it a perfect spot for seasoned surfers.
• Indian Beach: This beach is also part of Oswald West State Park and is perfect for intermediates and pros. The beach has some of the best swells in Portland, making it a favorite spot for many surfers.
• Cannon Beach: Although not as consistent as other beaches, when the conditions are right, Cannon Beach offers great surfing opportunities. The beach is also home to iconic Haystack Rock, making it a popular spot for tourists as well.

If you’re looking to learn how to surf, there are many rental shops and surf schools in Portland that offer lessons and gear rentals. Remember to always check the weather and surf conditions before heading out and to respect the ocean and other surfers.

Best beaches for families

If you’re planning a family vacation to Portland, you’ll want to make sure you visit some of the best beaches for families. Here are some top picks:

• Cannon Beach: This beach is known for its picturesque Haystack Rock and wide sandy shorelines, making it a great option for families with kids of all ages.
• Manzanita Beach: This beach is a bit more secluded than Cannon Beach, which means there’s plenty of room for families to spread out and enjoy the sand and surf.
• Seaside Beach: Seaside offers a classic beach experience with its boardwalk, arcade, and nearby attractions like the Seaside Aquarium.
• Oswald West State Park: This beach may not have as many amenities as some of the other options, but its rugged beauty and natural setting make it an ideal spot for families who love to explore the outdoors together.

No matter which beach you choose, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, snacks, and water to keep your family happy and hydrated during your day at the beach.

Best Beaches for Hiking

If you’re looking for more than just sunbathing and swimming, these Portland beaches offer great hiking options:

• Cape Falcon: Located in Oswald West State Park, Cape Falcon is a popular hiking trail that leads to a scenic overlook of the Pacific Ocean.
• Cannon Beach: In addition to its iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach also offers a hiking trail that winds through old-growth forest and leads to Ecola State Park.
• Oswald West State Park: This park is a hiker’s paradise, with several trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and lush forested areas.

If you prefer a more structured hike, consider booking a guided tour with one of the many local tour companies. They can provide expert knowledge and help you navigate the sometimes-challenging terrain.

Best beaches for seafood

If you’re a seafood lover, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit these beaches in Portland. Here are our top picks for the best beaches for seafood:

• Haystack Rock Beach: This beach is famous for its seafood restaurant, The Wayfarer, which offers a wide variety of seafood dishes that are caught fresh daily.
• Cannon Beach: This popular beach is home to several seafood restaurants that serve everything from clam chowder to fresh oysters.
• Seaside Beach: This family-friendly beach is known for its clam chowder and fish and chips, which can be found at a variety of local restaurants and food trucks.

If you’re looking for a more unique seafood experience, head to Netarts Bay, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and catch your own fresh clams, oysters, and crab.

Top seafood dishes to try at Portland beaches

Dish	Restaurant
Fried oysters	The Wayfarer
Clam chowder	Dundee’s Bar and Grill
Fish Tacos	Maggie’s on the Prom
Crab cakes	Driftwood Restaurant and Lounge