The One Beach In Oregon That You Absolutely Must Visit At Low Tide

Oregon's coastal beaches are an endless source for recreation and exploration. Always changing, our beaches can be sandy and smooth or rugged and rocky, and wildlife lovers enjoy spotting birds, seals, sea lions, and whales from the coastline. During low tide, you'll find even more wildlife, right at your feet! Check out this one beach in particular that offers up an amazing new world during low tide.

Cape Kiwanda, located north of Pacific City, is one of the most beautiful spots on the coast.

Its beaches are perfect for picnicking, kite flying, and walking...

...and its waves make it popular with surfers.

A climb to the top of the dunes provides a great workout and some fabulous ocean views.

While this beach can be popular and crowded, if you really want to see some of its best features, check your tide chart and visit during an early morning tide before tourists arrive.

You'll enjoy a stroll along the beach, and see rock formations that are normally covered up by water...

...and you'll be rewarded with tide pools that offer up hidden treasures.

Cape Kiwanda is one of seven marine gardens you'll find along the coast, and it's brimming with hidden sea life that you'll only find during low tide.

Sea stars by the hundreds hang out here, and you might see some of them slowly making their way along the rocks, searching for prey.

Tiny crabs are on the move, searching for a meal, too.

Look closely at pools that appear to only contain seaweed - you might see dozens of tiny sculpin darting about!

Mussels cling to the rocks in a thick blanket of shells.

Some tide pools are full of aggregating anemone...

...while giant green anemone wave their tentacles around in other pools.

Because Cape Kiwanda is designated as a marine garden, it's illegal to collect or remove any wildlife here. Spend plenty of time discovering these beautiful sea creatures, but leave them where they are.

While you're here, check out the sea cave, which is only accessible during low tide.

During your exploration of Cape Kiwanda, you'll notice fencing along some areas. The sandstone cliffs here are constantly being eroded by the powerful ocean waves and can crumble right under your feet. Stay inside fenced areas for your own safety.

While Cape Kiwanda is one of the most beautiful spots on the coast, it comes with a few risks as well. Check out this video posted on by Oregon State Parks to see some gorgeous views of Cape Kiwanda, as well as some safety information for visitors:

Have you explored Cape Kiwanda at low tide? Where else on the Oregon coast can you find hidden treasures? Let us know in the comments below! Don't forget to share photos from your Oregon Coast adventures with us on our Oregon Nature Lovers Facebook group for a chance to see your snapshots featured!

While you're on the coast, check out this enchanting state park where you can get away from it all.