Winema Beach - Secluded Sandy Shore at Pacific City

Winema Beach, also called Winema Road Beach, is a secluded sandy shore stretching one mile from the mouth of the Nestucca River on the north to the Neskowin Beach on the south, just a few miles away from Neskowin and Pacific City. The name "Winema" finds its roots in the Native American Modoc language, meaning "Woman Chief".

This hidden gem boasts unique features, including a small cave, a meandering stream originating from Daley Lake, and striking rock formations, including a domelike volcanic monolith. During low tide, the rocks become accessible, allowing visitors to stroll around and explore.

Winema Beach is an ideal destination for secluded beachcombing, offering excellent opportunities to discover sea glass, driftwood, and sand dollars.

Fishing enthusiasts will find the location favorable for surf fishing, particularly for redtail surfperch. Low tide is the best time to angle since the rip currents and pockets in the surf that hold fish are revealed. Make sure to pay attention to the tide levels and incoming waves.

The northern end of the beach, at the Nestucca River mouth, provides a remarkable setting for wildlife observation. Shorebirds, bald eagles, and harbor seals can be spotted in this area. However, it's essential to respect the wildlife and avoid its disturbance. Access to the northern end during high tide may be limited, as the narrow sandy channel may be submerged.

Make sure to explore this part of the beach when the tide recedes, do not get caught down by the incoming tides.

Winema Beach stands as a serene and diverse coastal retreat, inviting visitors to explore its natural wonders while maintaining a sense of tranquility and respect for the surrounding environment.

Accessing Winema Beach may be a challenge as the entrance is lacking prominent signage. When driving on Highway 101 between Pacific City and Neskowin, keep a keen eye for the Winema Road sign on the west side of the road at milepost 94. A short, winding drive along Winema Road leads to a compact sand and gravel parking lot adjacent to the Winema Christian Camp. The parking area can host around six vehicles, but it's crucial to be aware that the neighboring area is private property. Please refrain from trespassing, respecting the boundaries of the designated parking space.

Unlike some other secret beaches of the Oregon Coast, the walk from the parking area to the shore is relatively easy.

Cautions: Beware of changing tides, rip currents, driftwoods, sneaker waves and never turn your back to the ocean.

Attention, Fellow Beachgoers!

Unfortunately, our beautiful Pacific Northwest beaches are stained with trash, especially plastic. We at Oregon Discovery, as well as other unaffiliated groups of nature lovers, made a commitment to do our part in keeping our beaches clean, but we need your help too!

Whenever you go out to enjoy nature at your favorite spot, please bring a trash bag or two and help us pick up garbage. Even picking up a little bit here and there will make a huge long-term difference.

Please help us save our beautiful nature for generations to come!