A stunning rocky coastline, Indian Beach is located 4 miles north of Cannon Beach and 10 miles south of Seaside. This is a scenic Pacific Coast destination attracting surfers looking to catch waves and avid hikers planning to explore miles of coastal trails.

The pocket beach stretches nearly three-quarters of a mile between Indian Point to the north and Bald Point to the south. The easiest access is from the Indian Beach Day-Use Area at the northern edge of Ecola State Park. A short, easy trail from the parking lot leads directly to the sand.

Besides surfing, hiking, and taking in the breathtaking panoramic views—with dramatic Submarine Rock as a focal point—you can explore tidepools, watch wildlife, beachcomb, and hunt for agates.

Parking at the trailhead is limited, and the final section of the access road is not suitable for RVs or trailers due to a lack of a turnaround. You can instead park at the Ecola Day-Use Area and hike to the beach, but this adds nearly 2 miles each way.

Indian Beach – Things to Do

Hiking

In addition to the relaxing stroll along the shore, there are more trails available for both beginner and advanced hikers. The hike to Indian Beach is easy and family-friendly from the trailhead. The trail to Crescent Beach from Ecola Point is 1.5 miles long and relatively challenging, with steep, muddy sections.

The park features a variety of hiking options, including an 8-mile stretch of the Oregon Coast Trail, the 3-mile Clatsop Loop Trail, and the longer Tillamook Head Trail, which leads to Seaside. You can also take a short walk to the viewpoint overlooking the “Terrible Tilly” Lighthouse.

During minus tides in summer, it’s even possible to walk south to Cannon Beach, passing Bald Point, Ecola Point, Crescent Beach, and Chapman Point.

Rockhounding and Beachcombing

Rockhounding is limited here because the beach is mostly sandy. However, after winter storms and king tides—when waves sweep away layers of sand—you may find agates and other beach treasures. Beachcombing is rewarding year-round, with sea glass, shells, driftwood, and other interesting finds.

Surfing

Known for its smooth and consistent waves in both winter and summer, Indian Beach is a favorite among surfers. Winter—especially January—typically brings the best conditions, with rideable swells and light offshore winds. Clean waves occur about half the time; the rest may be blown out. Beginner-friendly waves do appear, but are less common in winter.

Summer also provides excellent surfing conditions, with the best winds coming from the east and some shelter from the northwest wind. Expect both left and right breaks, along with groundswells and windswells. The ideal swell angle typically comes from the southwest. Mid-tide on a rising tide offers the best experience.

Always be cautious of rocks, rip currents, and the possibility of occasional shark sightings in the area.

Wildlife Watching

The sea stacks, scattered rocks, and surf around Indian Beach attract many coastal birds. You may spot brown pelicans, harlequin ducks, surf scoters, pelagic cormorants, and other species.

Tidepool Watching

The rocky areas at both headlands bordering Indian Beach are excellent places to explore tidepools during low and minus tides. You can observe a wide range of marine life, including anemones, sea stars, crabs, and other fascinating creatures.