Coastal State Parks in the PNW for the Perfect Beach Day

The Pacific Northwest’s coastlines are rugged, scenic, and diverse, offering incredible state parks perfect for beach outings, tide pooling, picnicking, and scenic hikes.

Here are some of the best coastal state parks across Oregon, Washington, and Northern California for the ultimate beach day experience.

Cape Disappointment State Park – Ilwaco, Washington

Cape Disappointment State Park is anything but disappointing. This Washington park offers stunning ocean views, two historic lighthouses, and access to sandy beaches and tide pools.

Visitors can hike along coastal trails, explore the lighthouse grounds, or relax by the beach with views of the Pacific and the Columbia River mouth.

Ecola State Park – Cannon Beach, Oregon

Ecola State Park provides one of the most iconic coastal views in Oregon, with sweeping vistas of Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock. The park has several hiking trails that lead through lush forests to dramatic viewpoints.

Picnic areas with ocean views make it an ideal spot for a scenic beach day, and the beach itself is perfect for exploring tide pools.

Harris Beach State Park – Brookings, Oregon

Located along the southern Oregon coast, Harris Beach State Park features rocky sea stacks, sandy beaches, and vibrant tide pools. It’s an excellent spot for beachcombing, birdwatching, and enjoying a picnic by the sea.

The dramatic landscape and beautiful sunsets make it a favorite among photographers and beachgoers alike.

Fort Stevens State Park – Astoria, Oregon

Fort Stevens State Park is a historic site with plenty to see and do, from exploring the remains of the Peter Iredale shipwreck to walking along sandy beaches.

Located near the Columbia River’s mouth, the park also has an old military fort and several scenic hiking trails. It’s a great spot for families and history buffs looking to combine beach time with exploration.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – Carmel, California

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Northern California. Visitors can hike along trails that wind through cypress groves and rocky shores, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

The tide pools and protected coves make this reserve ideal for observing marine life and enjoying a peaceful beach day.

Cape Lookout State Park – Tillamook, Oregon

Cape Lookout State Park is known for its long sandy beaches and a scenic, forested cape that juts into the ocean.

Visitors can hike the Cape Lookout Trail for spectacular views of the coast or enjoy a relaxing beach day along the expansive shoreline. The park is also a great spot for whale watching during migration seasons.

Westport Light State Park – Westport, Washington

Westport Light State Park is located on the Washington coast, offering a wide sandy beach perfect for strolling, kite flying, and beachcombing.

The park’s lighthouse is a popular attraction, and the nearby Westport Marina offers fresh seafood and charming coastal shops, making it an ideal destination for a laid-back beach day.

MacKerricher State Park – Fort Bragg, California

MacKerricher State Park near Fort Bragg features rugged coastal scenery, tide pools, and sandy beaches. The park’s Glass Beach is a unique highlight, where you can find colorful sea glass scattered along the shore.

With hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and beautiful ocean views, MacKerricher offers a perfect balance of nature and relaxation.

Sunset Bay State Park – Coos Bay, Oregon

Sunset Bay State Park is a small, sheltered cove with calm waters, making it ideal for families and swimming.

The surrounding cliffs and forests add to the park’s beauty, while picnic areas and hiking trails offer plenty of activities for a beach day. As the name suggests, this park is known for its spectacular sunsets over the bay.

South Beach State Park – Newport, Oregon

South Beach State Park near Newport offers a wide, sandy beach with access to the iconic Yaquina Bay Bridge. Visitors can explore the beach, enjoy picnic areas, or try activities like kite flying and beachcombing.

The nearby Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center make this park a great stop for families.

MORE WEST COAST:

READ MORE:
The Best of Washington
The Best of Oregon
The Best of California

Get your West Coast adventure map!

Each of these coastal state parks in the PNW offers a unique beach experience, from dramatic cliffs and rocky shores to sandy beaches and tide pools. Whether you’re looking to hike, explore tide pools, or simply relax by the ocean, these parks provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable beach day.