Bailey Beach - Hidden Gem of the Oregon Coast

Bailey Beach is a hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest, located just a few miles north of Gold Beach. It stretches for three miles south from Otter Point to the Rogue River North Jetty.

On some maps, the beach is incorrectly listed as Barley Beach. The correct name is Bailey Beach, named after the Bailey Ranch, which included a significant portion of the land along the coast. The Bailey Ranch, owned by Irish immigrant Charles H. Bailey and later by his son Charles Bailey Jr., played a vital role in the local history. Charles Bailey Jr. served as a county assessor, sheriff, and Curry County judge, and was also the president of a local bank for 20 years.

The north part of the beach is more secluded due to the access point being much less accessible. This sandy beach with Otter Point towering over its north edge with a sea cave at the base is a perfect spot for enjoying breathtaking views, beachcombing, tidepool exploring, fishing, clamming, and much more!

There are multiple access points to the north part of Bailey Beach. Traveling north from Gold Beach right after you pass Rouge River Bridge you can take Old Coast Road, and follow it to the gravel and sand road. There are a few undeveloped roads spur from it taking you to the beach.

Parking at Otter Point State Recreation Site provides the best views of Bailey Beach on the south and Agate Beach on the north. From this vantage point, you can also access a very secluded portion of Bailey Beach. There are no signs off Highway 101 to Otter Point, which means the viewpoint and the northern part of Bailey Beach are not crowded. To get there, drive on Old Coast Road until you see a sign for Otter Point State Recreation Site. Note that the last quarter mile to the parking area is a narrow dirt road, not suitable for RVs and trailers.

From the parking area, you will need to take a 0.65-mile section of the Oregon Coast Trail to reach Bailey Beach. The first 0.4 miles are relatively flat, while the last 0.25 miles involve a steep but manageable descent.

Please be VERY CAREFUL at this location as there are no barriers or guardrails. Otter Point can be dangerous, especially for pets and children. Ensure you keep a close eye on them and maintain a safe distance from the edges.