McPhillips Beach
Experience the freedom of driving on a beautiful, expansive beach, perfect for families, pets, and bonfires.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
McPhillips Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the freedom of driving on a beautiful, expansive beach, perfect for families, pets, and bonfires.
"Beautiful drivable beach, great for families, kids, dogs and small fires, beach combing and flying kites."
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Soft sand can trap vehicles; a 4x4 is best for beach driving.
🔥 Bonfire Ready
Bonfires are allowed, making evenings cozy and memorable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Drive-On Beach
Experience the freedom of driving your vehicle directly onto the expansive sands of McPhillips Beach.
Family & Pet Friendly
A perfect spot for families, kids, and dogs to enjoy beachcombing, kite flying, and bonfires.
Rocky Shoreline Views
Explore the unique intersection of sandstone cliffs and the Pacific Ocean for stunning coastal vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Driving Access
Tide Pool Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Soft sand can trap vehicles; a 4x4 is best for beach driving.
🔥 Bonfire Ready
Bonfires are allowed, making evenings cozy and memorable.
🌊 Watch for Jellyfish
Be cautious of jellyfish, especially during low tide.
🪁 Kite Flying Fun
Wide open spaces are perfect for flying kites.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Soft sand can trap vehicles; a 4x4 is best for beach driving.
🔥 Bonfire Ready
Bonfires are allowed, making evenings cozy and memorable.
🌊 Watch for Jellyfish
Be cautious of jellyfish, especially during low tide.
🪁 Kite Flying Fun
Wide open spaces are perfect for flying kites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
McPhillips Beach is praised for its beautiful, drivable shoreline, making it ideal for families, pets, and those seeking a relaxed beach experience with opportunities for bonfires and kite flying. While the road access can be rough and a 4x4 is recommended, the unique sandstone formations and open space are significant draws. Some visitors find it can get crowded on weekends, preferring quieter alternatives if space is a priority.
"Beautiful drivable beach. Great for families, kids, dogs and small fires, beach combing and flying kites. Narrow, rough road to the beach but folks are courteous. Be careful not to touch the jellyfish!"
Laura Kazlas
"Wow, amazing area, been blessed lately with Heavenly views and weather along the Oregon coast and today was no exception!
The Van Morrison song "into the myst, er mystic" played in my head as I walked along this foggy area."
Strength In the Pines
"Good spot to drive on the beach, you can head to the right or left once you’re down there. Wouldn’t recommend going down that path unless you have a 4x4 as I saw a couple of cars getting stuck. Nice that they allow bonfires at night which is awesome. Can be pretty full on weekends though, and honestly prefer the Gearhart area if you have a choice since there is a lot more space to keep distance from others and be alone with the ocean!"
Evan S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McPhillips Beach offers drive-on access, but a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended due to soft sand areas. There are at least two access points; the northern one is often easier to navigate than the signed road access.
While some regular cars might manage on packed sand, it's risky. Soft dune sand can easily cause vehicles to get stuck, so a 4x4 is the safest bet for beach driving.
Travelers often prefer the northern access point for easier navigation. Always check local conditions before heading out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry fees mentioned for McPhillips Beach itself, but be aware of potential parking fees if applicable in the general area.
McPhillips Beach is generally accessible at all times, especially for driving on the beach. However, check for any local advisories regarding specific access times or restrictions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
McPhillips Beach is great for driving on the sand, beachcombing, flying kites, and enjoying bonfires. Families and pets are welcome.
Yes, dogs are welcome at McPhillips Beach, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the coast.
Absolutely! Bonfires are permitted at McPhillips Beach, offering a wonderful way to enjoy the evenings.
Be cautious of jellyfish, especially during low tide. Also, be mindful of the soft sand if you are driving on the beach.
While not as extensive as other locations, there's a rocky area where you can observe the sandstone meeting the sea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
McPhillips Beach is a natural beach area, and typically does not have on-site restaurants or food services. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, picnics are a great idea for McPhillips Beach. Pack your favorite foods and enjoy a meal with ocean views.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the coastline, the unique sandstone formations meeting the sea, and the expansive beach, especially during sunrise or sunset. Driving on the beach itself can also make for unique photos.
Yes, the dramatic meeting of sandstone and sea, along with the vast beach, offers excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Keep an eye out for jellyfish, and ensure children are supervised, especially near the water and rocky sections. The allowance of small bonfires can also be a magical end to a family day at the beach.
🐶 Pet Owners
When driving on the beach, ensure your pet is safely secured. Always be mindful of other beachgoers and wildlife. Bringing water for your pet is essential, especially on warmer days. The ability to have bonfires also means you can extend your visit into the evening with your furry friend.
🚗 Adventure Seekers
Explore different sections of the beach, discover the unique rocky formations, and enjoy the feeling of freedom. Be prepared for varying sand conditions and always prioritize safety. The ability to set up a bonfire adds to the adventurous overnight potential.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving on McPhillips Beach
There are multiple access points, with some visitors preferring the northern access for its navigability. Always assess the conditions before driving onto the beach, and if you're unsure, it's best to park and walk. This allows for a more relaxed experience without the worry of getting stuck.
Even if you don't drive on the beach, the ability to park close by and access the sand makes it convenient for families and those with gear. The freedom to cruise along the shore is a major draw for many visitors.
Family and Pet-Friendly Fun
Dogs are welcome at McPhillips Beach, so bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Remember to keep them under control and clean up after them. The beach is also a great spot for small bonfires, adding a cozy element to evening visits, making it a memorable experience for all ages.
While the beach is generally spacious, it can get busy on weekends. If you prefer more solitude, visiting on a weekday or exploring further down the beach might offer a quieter experience compared to more popular nearby areas.
Social
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