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.
David Kingham/flickr
Its beaches are perfect for picnicking, kite flying, and walking…
drburtoni/Flickr
…and its waves make it popular with surfers.
Harold/Flickr
A climb to the top of the dunes provides a great workout and some fabulous ocean views.
Christopher Porter/Flickr
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.
sunrisecoup/Flickr
You’ll enjoy a stroll along the beach, and see rock formations that are normally covered up by water…
jar [o]/flickr
…and you’ll be rewarded with tide pools that offer up hidden treasures.
jar [o]/flickr
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.
Thomas Shahan/flickr
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.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife/flickr
Tiny crabs are on the move, searching for a meal, too.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife/flickr
Look closely at pools that appear to only contain seaweed - you might see dozens of tiny sculpin darting about!
kirill Ignatyev/flickr
Mussels cling to the rocks in a thick blanket of shells.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife/flickr
Some tide pools are full of aggregating anemone…
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife/flickr
…while giant green anemone wave their tentacles around in other pools.
kirill Ignatyev/flickr
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.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife/flickr
While you’re here, check out the sea cave, which is only accessible during low tide.
stokes rx/flickr
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.
Andrew Malone/flickr
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:
David Kingham/flickr
drburtoni/Flickr
Harold/Flickr
Christopher Porter/Flickr
sunrisecoup/Flickr
jar [o]/flickr
Thomas Shahan/flickr
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife/flickr
kirill Ignatyev/flickr
stokes rx/flickr
Andrew Malone/flickr
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.
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