Comprehensive Guide to Beach Access in North Bend, Oregon
North Bend, Oregon, located along the southern Oregon coast offers you expansive sandy beaches, protected coves, and access points to Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, making it ideal for hiking, beachcombing, wildlife watching, and off-road vehicle adventures. North Bend is conveniently located near Coos Bay and Charleston, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of coastal activities while still having access to dining, lodging, and other amenities.
Key Beach Access Points
Horsfall Beach
Located just north of North Bend, Horsfall Beach is part of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. It is popular among off-road vehicle enthusiasts who come to drive across the vast sand dunes. The beach features a day-use area with a self-pay station, picnic areas, and restrooms. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sandboarding, kite flying, and exploring the dune ecosystem. The beach is also popular for birdwatching, with seasonal shorebirds frequenting the area. Campgrounds nearby provide convenient overnight options for those who want to extend their visit.
Bastendorff Beach
Bastendorff Beach is a more secluded and tranquil option located west of Charleston. This undeveloped beach is ideal for beachcombing, picnicking, and casual walks along the shore. Visitors can explore tide pools and observe small marine creatures during low tide. While camping is not permitted, Bastendorff Beach provides a serene environment for photography, meditation, and enjoying coastal sunsets. Access is free and easy, with parking available off Bastendorff Beach Road.
Sunset Bay State Park
Sunset Bay State Park is known for its picturesque cove surrounded by dramatic cliffs. This family-friendly park provides sandy beaches suitable for swimming, wading, and sandcastle building. Picnic areas, restrooms, and campgrounds make it an ideal location for a full day or weekend visit. Hikers can explore nearby trails that connect to Cape Arago, offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is also an excellent location for tidepool exploration and spotting marine life like sea stars, crabs, and small fish. During winter and spring, whale watching from the cliffs is a popular activity.
Shore Acres State Park
Though Shore Acres itself does not offer direct beach access, nearby Simpson Beach can be reached via a short hike. Shore Acres is renowned for its beautifully landscaped gardens and seasonal holiday light displays. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, photography, and wildlife viewing, including sea lions and migratory seabirds. The elevated location provides dramatic ocean vistas and makes it a prime spot for whale watching during migration season, from December through June.
Outdoor Activities Around North Bend Beaches
- Oregon Coast Trail: Section 7 of the Oregon Coast Trail stretches from North Bend to Bandon, offering 33 miles of secluded beaches, forested dunes, and scenic viewpoints. Hikers can enjoy long coastal walks, tidepool exploration, and access to several public beaches along the way.
- Bluebill Trail: Located within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, this 60-acre dune lake trail offers unique hiking opportunities amidst coastal dunes, with views of the surrounding wetlands and native wildlife.
- Off-Road Vehicle Adventures: Horsfall Beach and nearby dunes are prime locations for dune buggying, ATV riding, and sandboarding. Rentals are available locally for visitors who do not have their own vehicles.
- Wildlife Viewing: Coastal wildlife includes seals, sea lions, migratory birds, and occasionally gray whales. Viewing points are available at Sunset Bay, Shore Acres, and along Cape Arago Highway. Visitors should always maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid disturbing natural habitats.
- Fishing and Clamming: Certain beaches near North Bend offer recreational fishing, surfcasting, and clamming opportunities. Always check local regulations for licenses, seasons, and bag limits.
- Photography and Nature Walks: With diverse landscapes including dunes, tide pools, cliffs, and coastal forests, North Bend beaches are perfect for landscape photography, painting, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
Tips for Visiting North Bend Beaches
- Check Tide Schedules: Many beaches have tide pools or areas that are only accessible during low tide. Make sure to consult local tide charts before heading out.
- Pack Accordingly: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, and layers as coastal weather can be unpredictable.
- Leave No Trace: Take all trash with you and respect the natural environment to preserve the coastline for future visitors.
- Respect Wildlife: Avoid approaching seals, birds, or other coastal animals. Many areas may have seasonal restrictions to protect nesting birds or seal pups.
- Safety First: Some beaches have strong currents, steep drop-offs, or shifting sand dunes. Observe posted warnings and avoid risky areas if you are unfamiliar with the terrain.
North Bend’s location provides easy access to a range of experiences, from adventure-filled days on the dunes to quiet, reflective walks along undeveloped beaches. Visitors can combine a trip to North Bend with stops in Coos Bay, Charleston, and nearby state parks to create a full Oregon coast itinerary.
