Taft Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline located at the southern edge of Lincoln City, extending 0.75 miles from Nelscott Beach in the north to the mouth of the Siletz Bay. Nestled in the historic Taft District, one of the Lincoln City’s oldest and most charming areas, the beach combines natural beauty with rich local history.

There are two convenient public access points from Highway 101:

• Taft 48 Beach, near the Inn At Spanish Head Resort Hotel, features a small parking area for visitors.
• Taft Waterfront Park, located near the mouth of Siletz Bay, offers ample parking and amenities, including restrooms, picnic tables, and an accessible public pier for fishing and crabbing.

This peaceful coastal area is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to soak in the serene beauty of the Oregon Coast. Taft Beach also provides opportunities for fishing, rockhounding, beachcombing, hiking, and more.

Taft Beach sits in the heart of the city. This way, you can enjoy fishing, rockhounding, beachcombing, hiking, and other outdoor adventures along with the finest Lincoln City has to offer.

Taft Beach at Siletz Bay - Things to Do

Wildlife and Nature Viewing

Siletz Bay is home to a variety of wildlife. You might see harbor seals resting on sandbanks, as well as shorebirds, wading birds, and waterfowl year-round. You can also watch migratory birds during the fall and spring.

The calm waters and marshes around Siletz Bay are great for wildlife photography. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the bay.

Beachcombing and Rockhounding

The sandy shores of Taft Beach are popular among beachcombers and even rockhounds. You'll find unique driftwood of all shapes and sizes, colorful agates, jaspers, petrified wood, shells and other ocean treasures.

The best time for rockhounding is during receding tides, which reveal hidden materials typically inaccessible at other times. To make your exploration easier, consider using a Sand Dipper Beach Scoop to collect rocks more efficiently.

In addition to its natural wonders, Lincoln City's beaches, including Taft Beach, offer a delightful surprise for visitors: nearly 3,000 handmade glass floats hidden along a 7.5-mile stretch of coastline each year.

This fun event takes place from mid-October to Memorial Day, encouraging beachgoers to hunt for these stunning treasures. Each float is a work of art, crafted by local artisans, and finding one means you can keep it as a memento of your visit.

Finders Keepers Glass Floats Event in Lincoln City

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity at Taft Beach and in Siletz Bay. You can catch different fish depending on the season:

Perch are common in spring and summer. The best spots are where the beach abruptly drops off into the deep waters. Chinook salmon can be caught from early August to September. The best fishing is at both ends of the beach.

If you have a boat, nearby marinas provide easy water access.

Crabbing and Clamming

Taft Beach is a top spot for crabbing and clamming. The shallow flats of Siletz Bay are perfect for digging clams. You can find soft-shell clams during low tide.

Crabbing is best in September and October near the public pier or from a boat, but it's possible year-round. Local shops rent crab traps and sell bait, making it easy to start.

If you've never tried crabbing or clamming, Lincoln City hosts hands-on clinics. These workshops teach you everything you need to know, including tips, rules, and the best spots. Clinics are a great way to learn and have fun at the same time.

Crabbing & Clamming Clinics in Lincoln City

Open: Year-round
Managed by: Lincoln City

Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, and a public pier
Activities: Hiking, beachcombing, rockhounding, fishing, crabbing, clamming, picnicking & nature viewing
Day-use fees: None

Taft Beach is located:

• 3 miles south of Lincoln City Center
• 62 miles west of Salem
• 118 miles northwest of Eugene.

Taft 48 Beach Access