Ocean Beach Day Use Site is a small, Forest-Service–managed day-use picnic area, located 10 miles south of Yachats and 16 miles north of Florence. A short, paved trail with a set of concrete stairs leads down to the bright sand and wide ocean views.
This spot is perfect for a quick beach break or a peaceful picnic along the coast. Bench and picnic tables overlook the sandy beach, giving you a relaxing place to watch the ocean waves, seabirds, and even migrating whales in season. A vault toilet is on the north end of the lot.
A dome-shaped headland rises just south of the picnic area, its basalt structure sculpted by waves over time.
Erosion has created small cave-like indentations and sea-carved features along the headland, which are visible at certain tide levels. These formations illustrate the dynamic forces shaping the Oregon Coast.
At low tide, the base of the headland reveals tide pools filled with tiny crabs, anemones, snails, and other intertidal life.
Agate hunting often improves after strong winter tides, when fresh gravel beds are exposed.
This area lies within the Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve and Marine Protected Areas, where fishing and collecting invertebrates, rocks, or seaweed are prohibited. It is a protected “look, don’t take” zone that helps preserve the natural character of the coast.
Ocean Beach Picnic Area | Facts
Open: Year-round (day-use only)
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Amenities: Vault restroom, picnic table
Activities: Picnicking, beachcombing
Distance from the parking area to the beach: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes, or Northwest Forest Passes
Ocean Beach Picnic Area is located:
- 10 miles south of Yachats
- 16 miles north of Florence
- 76 miles west of Eugene.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Ocean Beach Picnic Area
From Yachats,
- Drive south on US-101 for about 10 miles to milepost 171.5, then turn right (west) onto the narrow driveway leading to the parking area.
Phone: 541-563-8400