• Larson Creek Falls is a tall, narrow waterfall that drops directly onto Short Beach
Larson Creek Falls is a scenic, high-drop waterfall tucked along the northern edge of Short Beach near Cape Meares in Tillamook County.
Despite being less than half a mile long, Short Beach surprises visitors with two waterfalls—a small artificial cascade near the staircase trail and the taller, natural Larson Creek Falls at the far north end.
This Oregon Coast waterfall stands out for its height rather than its width. A thin ribbon of water plunges roughly 40 feet down a rugged basalt cliff into a small pool right on the beach.
Framed by sea cliffs, driftwood, and large cobbles, it’s one of the most dramatic spots along the Three Capes Scenic Loop.
The best time to enjoy the full force of the waterfall is from November through May, when rainfall boosts the flow.
In the dry summer months, the creek often slows, and the waterfall loses much of its drama. Early morning visits offer softer light and fewer people on the beach.
While you're there, keep an eye out for Short Beach's rocks and minerals. The area is one of the best rockhounding spots on the North Oregon Coast, where agates, jaspers, and zeolites expose after storms. You may also spot harbor seals offshore and seabirds nesting on the sea stacks.
Larson Creek Falls Hike
Reaching the waterfall takes a little effort, but the trip is short. From the small parking area along Cape Meares Loop, descend a 0.25-mile wooden staircase with about 100 feet of elevation loss to reach the beach. This staircase was built after several injuries occurred on the steep, slippery slope that once provided access.
Once on the sand, turn right and walk about 0.3 miles north along the shoreline. Larson Creek Falls comes into view as you approach the northern cliffs. The round-trip distance is roughly 1.1 miles.
🌊 Safety: Avoid Larson Creek Falls at High Tide
This is critical - it’s not safe to visit Larson Creek Falls at high tide.
The waterfall sits directly against the cliff at the north end of the beach, where the shoreline is steep and mostly unstable cobbles. Incoming tides can completely flood this section.
With no trail above and no escape route, it’s easy to become trapped against the rock wall.
Always check tide charts before your visit and plan for a tide of 2 feet or lower.
Give yourself at least 2 hours of buffer before the tide begins to rise. Watch for sneaker waves, avoid unstable cliffs, and never turn your back on the ocean.
Camping & Lodging at Larson Creek Falls
Camping is not allowed at Short Beach. For overnight stays, the nearest campground is Cape Lookout State Park, about 9 miles south.
For more comfortable stays, swing by Oceanside or Tillamook.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Oceanside
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Tillamook
Larson Creek Falls | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Oregon State Parks
Amenities: Portable toilet at the trailhead
Activities: Hiking, photographing, beachcombing, and agate hunting
Distance from the parking: 0.55 miles one-way
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Free
Larson Creek Falls is located:
- 1 mile south of Cape Meares
- 10 miles west of Tillamook
- 83 miles west of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Larson Creek Falls
From US 101 in Tillamook,
- Take OR 131 west (3rd Street) and follow it 8.8 miles to Cape Meares Loop
- Bear right onto Cape Meares Loop and drive 1.2 miles to the small roadside parking area and trailhead.
Take the staircase down to Short Beach, then walk 0.3 miles north along the sand to reach Larson Creek Falls.