Falcon Cove Beach, also known as Magic Rocks Beach, sits next to Oswald West State Park, and it is one of the best-kept secrets on the Oregon Coast. This unique spot features clicking volcanic cobblestones, tide pools, and stunning ocean views.

Cove Beach is a narrow, rocky shoreline stretching for 2.5 miles from Arch Cape to Oswald West State Park campground. This place is mainly used by locals and not frequent by other visitors, creating a secluded spot for beach life.

When you are in the area, make sure to visit the beautiful Manzanita Beach and towering Neahkahnie Mountain, which has some of the most spectacular viewpoints in Oregon.

Why Is It Called Magic Rocks Beach?

The first time I stepped onto this beach, I noticed something special. As the waves pulled back, the rocks beneath me clicked and clacked like tiny drums. It was mesmerizing. Have you ever heard a beach make music? That's why people call it Magic Rocks Beach.

The sound comes from the dense volcanic cobbles that cover much of the shore. As the water drains off them, they shift and knock together, creating a magical, rhythmic sound you won't hear anywhere else.

Parking at Cove Beach

Parking is very limited, and there is no official lot. Just a few roadside spots to leave your vehicle. The main trail is at the end of Columbia Street, and a second access point with stairs is 0.1 miles north on Tide Avenue.

Each spot only fits 2-3 cars, so arrive early or on weekdays for the best chance. Do not block driveways or disturb residents. If full, you'll need to park farther away and walk in.

Falcon Cove Beach Rockhounding and Beachcombing

At low tide, Cove Beach reveals hidden treasures. Keep an eye out for:

Polished volcanic rocks, colorful agates, jaspers, and petrified wood.
Shells and driftwood scattered along the shore
Sea glass

If you love searching for nature's hidden gems, this is the place to be because there aren't many visitors, and the rocky shore is the best place to find treasures.

Listening to the Magic Rocks

Sometimes, the best thing to do here is just listen. At high tide, when the waves crash onto the cobbles, you get the full "magic rocks" experience.

The stones shift and clatter, creating a sound like whispering marbles. You won't find this anywhere else on the Oregon Coast.

Exploring the Tide Pools

At the south end of the beach, near Cape Falcon, low tide reveals tide pools filled with marine life. Look closely, and you may spot:

Bright purple sea stars clinging to the rocks
Tiny crabs hiding under stones
Anemones swaying in the water

Just be careful; the tide comes in fast!

Also, don't disturb the fragile ocean ecosystem. Watch, but don't touch.

Surfperch Fishing

If you enjoy surf fishing, Cove Beach is a great spot. The first two hours of an incoming tide are the best time to catch surf perch. These fish love the mole crabs that burrow in the sand here. Bring a pole, and you might just catch dinner!

No camping is permitted at the beach or in the nearby Oswald West State Park.

If you want to camp, Nehalem Bay State Park, located 9 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.

There are also flush toilets, hot showers, and an RV dump station.

If you are looking for hotels or vacation rentals, Cannon Beach is the closest spot with many options.

Lodging in Cannon Beach

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stay at Cannon Beach