Strawberry Hill Wayside, Yachats, Oregon

Strawberry Hill Wayside, Yachats, Oregon

Strawberry Hill Wayside is located between Yachats and Florence, Part of the Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint, this 0.6-mile stretch of coastline is renowned for its tide pools, agate hunting opportunities, and the ocean vistas. Accessible via a steep but short and manageable trail from the parking area, visitors are greeted with a rocky terrace that leads to two distinct beaches..

• The Northern Cove: A smaller, sheltered beach ideal for beachcombing
  
  
• The Southern Shoreline: Features a longer, narrower expanse with volcanic ledges, sea caves, and sandy stretches The area is ideal for tide pool viewing, especially during low tide when marine life such as sea anemones, starfish, and crabs are visible. It's also a prime spot for agate hunting, particularly between November and April when winter storms reveal hidden treasures. As a marine reserve, only surface collecting is permitted—digging or disturbing the environment is prohibited.
  
  

Coastal Terrain & Geological Features

The landscape at Strawberry Hill is characterized by a combination of rocky outcrops, sandy beaches, and basalt formations. Geologically, the area showcases ancient lava flows over two million years old, evident in the step-like structures of the basalt rock formations. These formations are a result of volcanic activity and erosion over time. 

Marine Life & Tide Pools

Strawberry Hill is a prime location for tide pooling, especially during low tides. The rocky areas are home to a variety of marine life, including sea stars, anemones, barnacles, mussels, snails, limpets, and other invertebrates. The tide pools are rich with life, making it a favorite spot for marine enthusiasts. 

Agate Hunting & Rockhounding

The beach is situated within an agate-rich area stretching from Yachats to Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park. Visitors can find agates, jasper, petrified wood, fossil shells, and other interesting rocks. Since the area is part of a marine reserve, only surface collecting is permitted to protect the natural environment. The optimal time for rock collecting is from November to April, when winter storms and king tides reveal hidden treasures by removing top layers of sand and gravel. 

Wildlife Viewing

Strawberry Hill offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Visitors can often spot harbor seals basking on the rocks and, during migration seasons, gray whales spouting in the distance. The area is also frequented by various seabirds, adding to the biodiversity of this area. 

⚠️ Safety Considerations: Tides and Ocean Hazards

While Strawberry Hill offers unparalleled natural beauty, it's essential to prioritize your safety

• Timing is Crucial: Visit during low tide to safely explore tide pools and avoid being cut off by rising waters
  
  
• Stay Vigilant: Always face the ocean. Sneaker waves can occur unexpectedly, even on calm days, and can knock you down right off your feet.
  
  
• Distance from Cliffs: Maintain at least 100 feet between yourself and the cliffs to avoid being trapped by incoming waves
  
  
• Wear Appropriate Footwear: The rocky terrain can be slippery and sharp; sturdy, non-slip shoes are highly recommended
  
  
• Supervise Children Closely: The beach's natural allure can be captivating, but ensure children are always within arm's reach Local tide charts are available at the Yachats Visitors Center and can be invaluable for planning your visit
  
  

 Visitor Information

• Location Approximately 5 miles south of Yachats and 20 miles north of Florence, along Highway 101 at Milepost 16.
  
  
• Hours Open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
  
  
• Amenities Picnic tables, restrooms, and limited parking. Note that the trail to the beach is steep and may not be suitable for all visitors.
  
  
• Restrictions No camping, fishing, metal detecting, or removal of invertebrates, seaweeds, or wildlife. A permit is required to collect vertebrate fossils.
  
  

 Nearby Attractions

Strawberry Hill's location places it near several other noteworthy sites:

• Bob Creek: A family-friendly spot for agate hunting and tide pooling, featuring a large sea cave accessible during low tide.
  
  
• Cummins Ridge Trail: Provides access to scenic forested trails with coastal views.
  
  
• Washburne State Park: Offers sandy beaches suitable for picnics and swimming.
  
  

By respecting safety guidelines and the environment, visitors can ensure that Strawberry Hill remains a pristine beach for generations to come and enjoy.

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