Best State Park Beaches in Oregon to Visit to Close out Summer

I have been writing for Only In Your State for several years now, and despite the dozens of articles I’ve written, I never tire of writing about the Oregon Coast. This is my happy place and a space where I can relax, disconnect, and be completely mesmerized by Mother Nature’s creations. Along the coast, there are many state parks, and several are home to some of the best beaches in Oregon. As summer comes to an end, I wanted to share what I consider the best state park beaches in Oregon. Each one is perfect for a day trip before the cooler autumn weather starts to roll in.

Harris Beach State Park, Brookings

Harris Beach State Park is located at the southern end of the state and is truly the perfect day trip destination. This park is not only home to Bird Island, a national wildlife sanctuary and the largest island off the Oregon Coast, but also a sandy beach with rocky outcroppings. I love the sea stack views from Harris Beach, but there’s nothing quite like its exceptional wildlife sightings. From the beach, you may spot everything from a variety of sea birds to gray whales and sea lions.

Bullards Beach State Park, near Bandon

A popular state park in Oregon, Bullards Beach outside of Bandon, is the type of place you’ll never want to leave. This large park features 4.5 miles of beach with gorgeous views and excellent tidepooling opportunities. Bullards Beach is also home to the Coquille River Lighthouse, which was built in 1896. During the summer months, you can step inside the signal room and learn a little more about this historic structure and the area—you don't want to miss it.

Sunset Bay State Park, Coos Bay

No matter which direction you are facing, you will enjoy some of the most spectacular views at Sunset Bay State Park in Coos Bay. The tall, majestic sea cliffs protect the beach here, and you can walk around and look for tide pools, watch for wildlife, or even enjoy a picnic near the water. The sunset in this sheltered area is truly incredible—you'll want to be intentional about the timing of your visit to this park.

Beverly Beach State Park, Newport

Beverly Beach checks off all the boxes to become one of the best state park beaches in Oregon. The lush vegetation, soft sand, and panoramic views are stunning—no wonder this beach is so popular. Beverly Beach is a great place to discover tide pools and excellent wildlife viewing. Plus, just a short walk away is the Beverly Beach State Park campground, one of the largest state park campgrounds with dozens of campsites for tents and trailers. There are even 21 yurts you can reserve.

Cape Lookout State Park, Tillamook

I have a special place in my heart for the beach at Cape Lookout State Park. On my last visit, I spent hours here with my children looking for sand dollars. Located on the Netarts Spit, this beach is one where you will never tire of the views. This state park also features several hiking trails, each offering incredible views of the beach and ocean. The Cape Lookout Campground is also extremely popular, but keep in mind that the campsites are a short walk to the beach.

Indian Beach, Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach

Ecola State Park is one of my favorite destinations near Cannon Beach. This state park offers fascinating hikes, history, and extraordinary views. In fact, the cliffside overlooks at this park offer some of the best whale watching opportunities in the state. Ecola State Park is also home to Indian Beach, a secluded beach where you might spot a few surfers perfecting their skills in the waves and families putting their feet in the water. I find the water is too cold for me to fully jump in and swim.

I know this is only a small handful of the beaches that line the Oregon Coast, but these are a few of my favorites found within Oregon’s state parks. If you'd like to visit several beaches on one trip, take a look at this Highway 101 road trip along the Oregon coast.