• Blumenthal Falls is a multi-tier waterfall that cascades directly into the Pacific Ocean
Blumenthal Falls is a small but striking waterfall that cascades onto the beach at low tide and directly into the Pacific Ocean at high tide. It’s one of the few waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest that can be viewed plunging straight into the ocean - no boat required.
This beautiful 60-foot, multi-tier waterfall is located at the northern end of Short Sand Beach in Oswald West State Park. Reaching it requires a short hike through coastal forest, but the scenic payoff is well worth the effort.
The best time to see Blumenthal Falls is during low tides in winter or spring, when the water flow is strong and the full waterfall is visible. At high tide, the base of the falls becomes submerged, and only the upper portion can be seen from nearby rocks.
During the dry summer months, the water flow diminishes significantly, and the falls lose much of their dramatic appearance.
While visiting Blumenthal Falls, you can explore vibrant tidepools with starfish, sea anemones, crabs, urchins, and other marine life.
The surrounding area is part of a protected state park and features lush forest trails, dramatic coastal views, and access to a portion of the Oregon Coast Trail.
Blumenthal Falls Hike
Oswald West State Park offers several hiking options to reach Short Sand Beach and Blumenthal Falls.
The easiest and shortest trail is a 0.3-mile path from the southern parking lot that runs alongside Necarney Creek, leading to a picnic area overlooking the beach and ocean.
From there, hike approximately 0.4 miles north along the beach to reach the waterfall.
One trail also leads to the upper tier of the waterfall.
History of the Name
Blumenthal Falls, once known as Smugglers Cove Falls, was renamed in 1999 in memory of Oregon State Parks ranger Dan Blumenthal, who was tragically killed at a nearby campground. The attack appeared to be random and unprovoked, and no clear motive was ever identified.
Blumenthal became the first Oregon State Parks ranger killed in the line of duty. The waterfall was renamed to commemorate his service and sacrifice. His partner, John “Jack” Kerwin, was also critically wounded in the incident but survived. A nearby stream, Kerwin Creek, now bears his name in recognition of his bravery.
Camping and Lodging near Blumental Falls
No camping is permitted on Short Sand Beach or within Oswald West State Park. Nehalem Bay State Park, located 5 miles south, has 256 electrical sites with water, a hiker/biker camp, 18 yurts, a horse camp with 17 primitive sites, as well as an airstrip and airport camp with primitive sites.
Manzanita and Neahkahnie offers a variety of lodging options for visitors.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Manzanita
Blumenthal Falls | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed: Oregon State Parks
Amenities: Restrooms and picnic tables
Activities: Hiking, nature viewing, picnicking and tide pool exploring
Distance from the parking: 0.7 miles
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Free
Blumenthal Falls is located:
- 4 miles north of Manzanita
- 90 miles west of Portland
- 100 miles northwest of Salem.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Blumenthal Falls
From Manzanita,
- Drive 4 miles north on Highway 101 to the south parking area on the left (west).
Hike on the beach to the bottom of the waterfall, or walk the trail to the upper tier.