Winema Beach: A Secluded Coastal Gem near Pacific City

Winema Beach, also called Winema Road Beach, is a serene, sandy stretch of coastline offering visitors a peaceful escape from the busier beaches of Oregon’s coast. Named after the Modoc term for "Woman Chief," this hidden gem spans one mile from Kiwanda Beach on the north to Neskowin Beach on the south, offering a variety of natural wonders for outdoor enthusiasts.

The beach boasts several distinctive features that make it a haven for exploration. Visitors will find a small cave, a meandering stream that flows from Daley Lake, and striking volcanic rock formations, including a dome-shaped monolith. During low tide, these rocks become accessible, allowing for further exploration along the shoreline.

Winema Beach is an ideal destination for beachcombing, surf fishing, wildlife watching, ans horseback riding.

Beachcombing, Fishing, and Wildlife Watching

Beachcombing at Winema Beach is particularly rewarding for those looking to discover treasures like sea glass, driftwood, and sand dollars. The secluded nature of the beach adds to the allure for those seeking a quiet, undisturbed experience.

For fishing enthusiasts, Winema Beach offers excellent opportunities for surf fishing, especially for redtail surfperch. The best time to fish is during low tide when rip currents and pockets in the surf reveal the ideal spots. Be sure to monitor the tide levels and incoming waves for a safe and successful outing.

At the northern end, near the mouth of the Nestucca River, visitors can enjoy some of the best wildlife watching on the coast. Shorebirds, bald eagles, and harbor seals are commonly seen in this area. As always, remember to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.

Safety Tips for Visitors

The tides at Winema Beach can rise quickly, and access to certain areas may become limited, especially near the river mouth. Be cautious of sneaker waves, rip currents, and driftwood, and never turn your back on the ocean. Plan your visit around the low tide to make the most of the beach’s features and avoid being caught by 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.

Getting to Winema Beach

Reaching Winema Beach requires a bit of attention, as the entrance lacks prominent signage. While driving on Highway 101 between Pacific City and Neskowin, look for the Winema Road sign at milepost 94 on the west side of the highway. A short, winding drive leads to a small sand and gravel parking lot near the Winema Christian Camp.

Though parking is limited to about six vehicles, please be mindful that the surrounding area is private property. Respect the boundaries and avoid trespassing.

The walk from the parking lot to the shore is relatively easy compared to other hidden beaches along the Oregon Coast, making it a convenient choice for all types of visitors.

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!