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Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
No
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
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Whaleshead Beach is a sandy, wide beach, even at high tide.  It is also one of the longer beaches along the Oregon coast. The destination offers vaulted toilets at the parking area, numerous tree-shaded picnic tables and access to multiple viewpoints overlooking the rocky coastline. Whaleshead Beach also provides some fun features for families such as tide pools, multiple shallow creeks cutting across the sandy beach, and a large cave with a “window” that frames a view of the coast to the south. 

In addition to these features, the Oregon Coast Trail crosses the beach. Following the trail to the south will lead you to House Rock, while following the trail to the north will lead to Indian Sands.

The location was given its name because of the “whale spout” that can be spotted just off shore. The largest sea stack at the beach, when hit with the right wave, will spray a large stream of misty water that resembles a whale spout.

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Great views and expansive beach area.

Cons

Slightly rough access road.

Features

Fishing
Picnic tables
Tide pools
Wildlife
Whale watching
Tide pools

Location

Nearby Adventures

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Southern Oregon Coast + Rogue River, Oregon
Southern Oregon Coast + Rogue River, Oregon
Ludlum House Recreation Area

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A profound concept originally envisioned by governor Oswald West, in 1967 the Oregon legislature ultimately realized his vision of making the entire Oregon Coast forever open to the public in a piece of landmark legislation titled the Oregon Beach Bill, officially making all 363 miles public land. "The People's Coast" is truly a one-of-a-kind coastline, a unique blend of mountains and rocky stacks, towering old growth forests, marine sanctuaries, tide pools and kelp forests, charming towns, historic fishing communities, world-class golfing, breweries, and simply jaw-dropping scenic beaches. We encourage you to plan your next trip at visittheoregoncoast.com or by calling (541) 574-2679.

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