Otter Point State Recreation Site & Agate Beach – Secret Spot near Gold Beach

Otter Point State Recreation Site is a hidden gem of the South Oregon Coast near Gold Beach. Amazing views from Otter Point and access to secluded Agate Beach and Bailey Beach make this a must-visit spot for any outdoor enthusiast. Bailey Beach is located south of Otter Point and Agate Beach is to the north.

Otter Point is a headland sitting high above the ocean with a variety of sea stacks and two sandy beaches beneath it. Otter Point boasts fantastic views of beaches, the mighty pacific with dramatic waves breaking against the large and small sea stacks.

In addition to breathtaking views, Otter Point is a fantastic wildlife viewing spot. Rocks below are home to a variety of sea birds including oystercatchers who reside here all year long. Other birds like black turnstones make it home from fall to early spring. Also, you can often see sea lions and sometimes even whales!

There are two hiking trails - Otter Point Trail and Oregon Coast Trail. Otter Point Trail provides an easy 0.5 miles out-and-back hike. It will take you from Otter Point State Recreation Site parking to Otter Point. A part of Oregon Coast Trail leading to Bailey Beach is 0.65 miles path. The first 0.4 miles are pretty much a flat surface while the last 0.25 miles are a steep.

Agate Beach is easily accessible from the northeast part of the parking area. It is short, just about 100 yards, but a rough walk down; so, be very careful. It tends to get slippery in wet weather and you will have to cross a narrow wood-plank bridge sitting 8 feet above the creek.

Agate Beach, as the name suggests, is a fantastic place to find those minerals along with jasper and petrified wood. It can be a very productive spot because this beach is low-use.

There are no signs off Highway 101 to Otter Point, hence the viewpoint and beaches are not crowded at all. Once you drive on Old Coast Road, you will see a sign toward Otter Point State Recreation Site. Keep in mind that the last quarter mile to the parking is a narrow dirt road with no room for RVs and trailers.

Please be VERY CAREFUL at this location. Otter Point is made of rock, sand, and clay so it can be unstable in some areas, especially at the edges. Also, there are no barriers and guardrails. Because of that, Otter Point can be dangerous, especially for pets and children.