
Yachats State Recreation Area
Oceanfront beauty with mesmerizing tide pools, dramatic waves, and scenic overlooks perfect for whale watching.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for tide pools & agates

Yachats State Recreation Area
Best Time
Best for tide pools & agates

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oceanfront beauty with mesmerizing tide pools, dramatic waves, and scenic overlooks perfect for whale watching.
"Absolutely stunning view of the ocean, a mesmerizing place to watch waves crash against rocks."

🌊 Respect the Ocean's Power
Never turn your back to the ocean; sneaker waves and slippery rocks are dangerous. Be extra cautious with kids.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Arrive before 8 AM for a more peaceful experience and better chances for agate hunting.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Endless Tide Pools
Yachats State Recreation Area, Cape Perpetua, Neptune State Park
Discover vibrant marine life like sea stars and anemones in extensive tide pools at low tide.

Thor's Well
Cape Perpetua
Witness the dramatic spectacle of the ocean draining into a sinkhole, a truly mesmerizing sight.

Cape Perpetua Overlook
Cape Perpetua
Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, a perfect spot for whale watching and soaking in coastal beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tide Pool Treasures & Safety
Best Times for Ocean Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Respect the Ocean's Power
Never turn your back to the ocean; sneaker waves and slippery rocks are dangerous. Be extra cautious with kids.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Arrive before 8 AM for a more peaceful experience and better chances for agate hunting.
🥾 Explore Diverse Trails
Enjoy short walking trails with benches for ocean viewing and sunset appreciation.
🦀 Tide Pool Etiquette
Explore tide pools gently, observe marine life without disturbing it, and remember to check tide charts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Respect the Ocean's Power
Never turn your back to the ocean; sneaker waves and slippery rocks are dangerous. Be extra cautious with kids.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Arrive before 8 AM for a more peaceful experience and better chances for agate hunting.
🥾 Explore Diverse Trails
Enjoy short walking trails with benches for ocean viewing and sunset appreciation.
🦀 Tide Pool Etiquette
Explore tide pools gently, observe marine life without disturbing it, and remember to check tide charts.
📸 Capture Stunning Views
The Cape Perpetua Overlook offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Pacific.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning ocean views and the fascinating tide pools, perfect for agate hunting and observing marine life. The dramatic wave action against the rocks is a major draw, offering mesmerizing sights. While generally free and accessible, some find the rocky terrain challenging for young children and advise caution due to slippery surfaces and sneaker waves.
"Tide pools are easy to access and go on forever, agates and shells galore, hermit crabs, anemones, starfish, sea slugs are easy to spot at low tide. Not especially easy to access for kids and has many cliffs so be extra cautious if you bring kids to the tide pools. Not many people before 8 am."
Mars Rodriguez
"We always love going to sit and watch the waves and also dig around for agates and other beach treasures. It's always amazing how the beach changes with each passing tide - low tide for agate hunting, and high tide for hiking around the rocks and watching the surf crash against them."
Sam Osborne
"Yachats State Recreation Area is a wonderful day use area in Yachats along the Pacific Ocean. There's restrooms, picnic tables, lots of grassy areas for children to play or to walk your dog, parking with an ocean view, and overlook. There is a viewing platform with informational signs and steps leading down to the rocky beach below.
Between the rocky outcroppings, there is sand at lower tides, and when the smelt are running, they are available in the sandy areas.
One of our favorite spots along the Oregon Coast to pause and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean!
Do yourself a favor and check it out!
If you find my review helpful, please give me a thumbs-up 👍 Thank you!"
Ric Listella
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yachats State Recreation Area is located just south of the town of Yachats, Oregon, along Highway 101. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available at the site. Many visitors find it a convenient stop on a scenic Oregon Coast road trip.
Public transport options directly to Yachats State Recreation Area are limited. It's best accessed by car. If you're exploring the Oregon Coast without a car, consider ride-sharing services or local shuttle options if available during your visit.
Many visitors recommend a scenic drive along Highway 101, stopping at various points of interest like Yachats State Recreation Area, Cape Perpetua, and Neptune State Park. Renting a car offers the most flexibility.
Yes, the town of Yachats itself offers accommodations, from motels to boutique hotels. Florence is another nearby town to the south with more lodging options.
Highway 101 is generally well-maintained, but conditions can change with weather. Always check local road reports, especially during winter months, for any closures or advisories.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yachats State Recreation Area is a day-use area and typically does not require an entrance fee for general access. However, always check the official Oregon State Parks website for any potential changes or specific fees for certain amenities or parking.
As a state recreation area, it is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific facilities like restrooms might have limited hours. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No, tickets are not typically required for general access to Yachats State Recreation Area. It's a public space for day use.
If you plan to go salmon fishing, you will need a valid Oregon fishing license. Check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for current regulations and license requirements.
Yes, Yachats State Recreation Area can be visited year-round. Each season offers a different experience, from whale migrations in winter to tide pool exploration in summer. Be prepared for coastal weather, which can be unpredictable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy exploring the extensive tide pools at low tide, hunting for agates and shells, watching waves crash against the rocks, picnicking, and enjoying scenic ocean views.
While there are grassy areas for play, accessing the rocky beach and tide pools requires caution with children due to slippery surfaces and cliffs. Always supervise closely.
You can spot marine life in tide pools like sea stars, anemones, and hermit crabs. It's also a good spot for whale watching during migration seasons and observing various coastal birds.
Yes, restrooms are available at Yachats State Recreation Area, making it a convenient spot for a day visit.
Dogs are generally allowed in Yachats State Recreation Area, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations for specific pet policies.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic wave action against the rocks, the intricate details of tide pools, expansive ocean vistas, and stunning sunsets. Thor's Well and Cape Perpetua Overlook are also prime photography spots nearby.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene coastal scenes. Sunsets provide dramatic colors, while low tide is perfect for tide pool photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a macro lens can capture the details in tide pools. A sturdy tripod is helpful for long exposures, especially during sunset or for capturing wave motion.
Be patient and wait for the waves to recede. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water's surface and bring out the colors of the marine life.
Photographing Thor's Well requires careful timing with the waves. A wide-angle lens and a tripod are essential. Be prepared to get wet and prioritize safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a safer experience, focus on the picnic areas and overlooks. If you do explore the tide pools, prioritize sturdy, non-slip shoes for everyone. Early mornings are recommended to avoid crowds and ensure a more controlled environment. Nearby attractions like the Sea Lion Caves (south of Florence) might offer a more contained wildlife experience for younger children.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Consider an early morning visit to enjoy the solitude and the best light for photography. The area is also ideal for agate hunting and beachcombing, offering a peaceful way to connect with nature. For couples, it's a romantic spot to watch the sunset together.
🚗 Road Trippers
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Cape Perpetua for a more comprehensive experience. Many road trippers find Yachats to be a charming town with unique lodging and dining options, making it a great place to spend a night or two.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Yachats' Tide Pools
When planning your tide pool adventure, always check the tide charts. The best viewing occurs during extreme low tides. Be aware that the rocks can be slippery and uneven, so wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear is crucial. Parents should exercise extra caution and keep a close eye on children, as sneaker waves can be a hazard. The early morning hours often provide a more serene experience with fewer visitors, allowing for better observation and photography.
The Power of the Pacific: Waves and Coastal Features
Beyond Thor's Well, the entire coastline around Yachats State Recreation Area is characterized by rugged rocky outcroppings that bear the brunt of the incoming surf. At high tide, watching the waves crash against these formations is a powerful experience. Conversely, at low tide, the same rocks reveal calmer pools and offer opportunities for agate hunting and beachcombing. The ever-changing nature of the shoreline, influenced by both tides and weather, makes each visit unique.
Scenic Views and Wildlife Watching
Even within Yachats State Recreation Area, the oceanfront setting offers continuous opportunities for enjoying the scenery. Benches are strategically placed for visitors to sit, relax, and simply watch the waves roll in. The area is also known for its potential to spot smelt running in the sandy areas during specific times.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit