Surfing in Oregon
Surfing guide to Oregon, USA
Oregon has 4 main surf areas. There are 22 surf spots . Go explore!
Overview of surfing in Oregon
Oregon is one of North America’s most dramatic, raw, and atmospheric surf destinations — a coastline shaped by ancient forests, volcanic headlands, towering sea stacks, cold Pacific currents, heavy beach breaks, and endless miles of wild, undeveloped shoreline. Known as the beaver state, Oregon is famous for its rugged coastlines and wilderness, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Oregon coast stands out as a prime destination for surfers, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and surf potential. Surfing here feels elemental and immersive. Mornings start with mist rolling over cliffs, waves rumbling through fog, and the scent of pine and saltwater mixing in the cold ocean breeze.
While Oregon doesn’t have the everyday perfection of California or the warmth of Hawaii, it offers something many surfers crave: solitude, adventure, raw power, and a deep connection to nature. Oregon surfing is defined by its unique experience and culture, shaped by the wild environment and the passionate local community. The surf can be big, powerful, stormy, inconsistent, or absolutely flawless depending on wind, swell direction, and tide. The coastline is extremely exposed, receiving consistent North Pacific swell throughout the year — especially in winter, when waves can turn XL and stormy.
Summers bring calmer conditions, friendlier surf windows, and more approachable waves. The shoulder seasons often produce magical days when offshore winds, mid-period swells, and crisp weather align. Oregon’s beaches form a long stretch of coastline, providing extensive, uninterrupted surf breaks that contribute to the region’s surf experience. Its reefs are rugged, and its river mouths can deliver unexpected perfection along the Oregon coast.
Surfing in Oregon is about exploration. Local surfers drive along the coast checking coves, jetties, river mouths, and hidden beaches. The vibe is friendly but protective of secret spots, and visitors who respect the land and lineup will feel welcomed. Certain locations and times of year are known for their consistent waves, making them especially attractive for surfers seeking reliability. Oregon is peaceful, raw, wild, and humbling — one of the most unique surf zones in the U.S. The search for the perfect wave is a constant pursuit along the Oregon coast, drawing surfers to its challenging and rewarding breaks.
Surf Regions in Oregon
North Coast (Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita)
Storm-ready beaches, jetties, river mouths, and classic Pacific Northwest surf culture define the north Oregon coast. Perfect mix of accessible and heavy waves, with Gearhart standing out as a popular surfing spot in the north Oregon coast.
In Seaside, note that Avenue U marks the boundary for a no-surf zone from Avenue U north to the city limits, reflecting local restrictions for surfers.
Central Coast (Pacific City, Lincoln City, Newport, Depoe Bay)
Famous headlands, beginner-friendly surf zones, and high-level surf spots with both power and playful peaks depending on conditions.
South Coast (Florence, Bandon, Port Orford, Gold Beach, Brookings)
Remote, quiet, wild coastline with empty lineups, powerful winter waves, and endless exploration potential. Coos Bay stands out as a significant surf destination on the South Coast, offering a range of breaks for all skill levels. Bastendorff Beach, located within Coos Bay, is a popular surf spot known for its beginner-friendly conditions and multiple peaks along the bay.
Getting there
Getting There and Access
Main fly-in airport:
- Portland (PDX)
Closest regional airports:
- Newport
- North Bend
- Brookings (small, limited flights)
Highway 101 runs the entire Oregon coastline, connecting every surf town and spot. Access is excellent — virtually every beach has parking and trails. Most surfers rent a car or van for maximum flexibility. When planning your surf trip or trip to Oregon, be sure to research surf conditions, seasonal weather, and logistics like airport access and local transportation to make the most of your visit.
A 4×4 is useful in sandy or remote areas but not essential.
Crowds
Seaside: moderate
Pacific City: moderate
Cannon Beach: moderate
Newport: light to moderate
Florence: light
South Coast: very light
Crowds spike slightly in summer but Oregon rarely feels packed compared to California. Surfers seeking solitude can explore other spots along the coast, which often offer a quieter experience away from the main breaks.
Lineup Lowdown
Oregon surfers are friendly and chilled but protective of certain zones. Respect goes a LONG way:
- Never drop in — waves are powerful and collisions hurt
- Avoid crowding tight peaks
- Keep secret spots unmentioned online
- Learn rip currents before paddling out
- Cold water slows reaction times — surf within your limits
- Smile, chat, and respect the wilderness
You’ll often find a tight-knit group of local guys in the lineup, sharing waves and looking out for each other, which adds to the camaraderie of surf Oregon.
Oregon’s surf culture is grounded, humble, and nature-forward.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in Oregon
Surf Seasons and When to Go
Summer (June–August)
Small surf, mellow conditions, beginner-friendly
Morning glass-offs
Thick marine layer some days
Warmest weather
Popular beaches like Short Sands Beach tend to be much busier on summer weekends, with more visitors and surf enthusiasts crowding the area.
Autumn (September–November)
The best season
Offshore winds are common
Clean swells and clean waves
Weather is crisp and clear
Great for intermediates and advanced surfers
Winter (December–February)
Huge swells
Storm surf is common
Heavy, powerful waves for experts only
Risk of getting caught inside is high during big winter swells
Cold water and weather
Amazing big-wave days between storms
Spring (March–May)
Mixed conditions
Wild shifts between calm and stormy
Less crowded
Beautiful landscapes and wildlife
Best overall: Autumn
Best for beginners: Summer
Water Temperatures and Weather
Cold. Always cold.
Water: 9–13°C in winter, 11–15°C in summer
Wetsuit:
- 5/4 or 4/3 year-round
- Hood in fall/winter
- Booties always
- Gloves in midwinter
Weather changes fast. Expect rain, fog, sunshine, wind, and stillness — all in a single day.
Can’t-Miss Surf Spots
North Coast
Short Sands (Oswald West State Park)
Short Sands Beach, located in Tillamook County, is a magical cove surrounded by towering forest and cliffs. One of Oregon’s most scenic surf breaks with lefts and rights breaking over sand and reef depending on tides. It is considered one of the best surf spots in the region, offering year-round waves suitable for all levels depending on size. Works best with mid-size swells and lighter winds.
Seaside Cove
A classic PNW surf town wave offering long lefts and rights that peel across the point during good NW swells. Seaside Cove is a point break known for its long rides. Popular with locals and longboarders. Can get crowded, but the vibe is good.
Indian Beach (Cannon Beach)
A punchy, hollow beach break that handles heavier swells. Strong rips and shifting peaks make it a great place for advanced surfers when firing.
Manzanita
A long, exposed beach break with stronger rips and more power due to exposure. Delivers good walls during shoulder-season swells.
Central Coast
Pacific City (Cape Kiwanda)
Famous for its iconic sea stack, dory boats, and golden cliffs. A consistent, fun beach break with peaks for every skill level, making it the perfect place for surfers of all abilities. Offers rippable faces on west swells and great vibes in and around the fishing town.
Lincoln City
A versatile beach break area with multiple peaks spread out across miles of sand. Some banks get hollow; others stay mellow. Good for progression, and you can often find good waves for various skill levels.
Nelscott Reef (Lincoln City)
Oregon’s big-wave arena. A deep-water reef that breaks monstrously on XL swells. Home to big-wave contests. Strictly for highly experienced surfers with proper gear.
Agate Beach (Newport)
A scenic, consistent beach break with approachable surf and lots of room to spread out. The sandy beach makes it accessible for beginners, and there are good waves for beginner-to-intermediate surfers.
Otter Rock
One of the best beginner surf spots in Oregon. The sandy beach and soft waves, along with surf schools and gentle reform sections, make it a great family spot.
South Coast
Florence South Jetty
A powerful, sometimes heavy beach break offering hollow sections during NW swell. Known for strong drift and colder water. Advanced surfers thrive here.
Bandon Beaches
Long, exposed stretches of sand with dunes, stacks, and shifting peaks. Often empty. Gorgeous landscapes and fun, unpredictable surf.
Port Orford
Rocky points + beach breaks with a wild, remote feel. Heavy on big swells but extremely rewarding.
Gold Beach
Wide-open beach break with fun peaks and beautiful scenery. Perfect for intermediate surfers on small-to-medium days.
Brookings / Chetco River Mouth
Southern Oregon’s warmest water and some of its punchiest surf. River mouth setups can fire with long lefts and rights depending on sand deposition.
Oregon surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Learning to Surf in Oregon
Best beginner-friendly areas:
- Otter Rock
- Short Sands (small days)
- Agate Beach
- Pacific City (small days)
Lessons usually cost AU$60–150 depending on gear and duration.
Rentals are easy to find in Pacific City, Seaside, Lincoln City, and Newport.
Safety and Etiquette
Oregon’s surf environment is raw and must be respected:
- Rip currents are strong and unpredictable
- Rogue waves can occur near cliffs
- Water is extremely cold — hypothermia risk
- Fog can reduce visibility
- Rocky headlands create hidden hazards
- Never surf alone in remote spots
- Keep respectful distance from seals and wildlife
- Do not leave valuables in cars at trailheads
Always check swell + wind conditions and know your exit before paddling out.
Surf and Yoga Retreats
Oregon doesn’t have Bali-style yoga-surf resorts, but a handful of boutique retreats and eco-lodges offer surf-yoga weekends, especially near Pacific City, Lincoln City, and Manzanita. They typically include:
- Surf lessons
- Yoga flows
- Meditation or breathwork
- Nature hikes
- Cozy cabins or eco-lodges
Prices: AU$400–1,500 depending on length and luxury.
Accommodation Options for Surfers
Budget hostels: AU$30–60
Cabins & lodges: AU$80–150
Hotels: AU$120–250
Oceanfront rentals: AU$250–500
Boutique eco-stays: AU$300+
Campgrounds are abundant — Oregon’s coastal parks are beautiful and well-maintained.
Comparison to Other Surf Destinations
Oregon vs California:
- Colder
- Less crowded
- More wild and rugged
- More weather-dependent
- Less consistent in summer
- More powerful winter surf
Oregon vs Washington:
- Slightly warmer
- More accessible coastline
- More surf towns
- Better overall consistency
Oregon vs Hawaii:
- WAY colder
- Far less crowded
- More unpredictable
- More solitude-focused
Oregon vs East Coast USA:
- More powerful
- More scenic
- Colder
- More consistent in winter
Oregon is a mood — raw nature, fog, forests, storms, and unexpected perfection.
Expenses (AUD)
Accommodation: AU$80–300
Car rental: AU$60–120/day
Board rental: AU$40–70/day
Wetsuit rental: AU$20–40/day
Meals: AU$15–40
Park fees: AU$5–15 depending on location
Not cheap but manageable — especially for vanlifers.
Cultural Notes
Expect:
- Outdoor adventure energy everywhere
- Surfers who also hike, climb, fish, or brew coffee
- Foggy mornings, craft beer, organic cafés
- Eco-conscious, friendly communities
- Surfers dressed in 5mm neoprene all year
- Kindness and humility in the water
Oregon surf culture is about nature first, ego last.
Cell Coverage & Wi-Fi
Strong in towns
Weak inside forested coves and state parks
Some surf spots have zero coverage
Starlink vans becoming more common
Download tide charts offline
Final Thoughts
Oregon is one of the most atmospheric, wild, and soulful surf regions in the world — a place where waves meet ancient forests, where fog and cliffs frame every session, and where surfing feels like an adventure rather than a performance. It’s rugged, cold, moody, powerful, and indescribably beautiful.
The surf can be challenging, but for those who embrace exploration, Oregon offers some of the most rewarding and peaceful sessions you’ll ever experience. Whether you’re logging fun peaks at Short Sands, carving clean walls at Pacific City, charging heavy beach breaks in Florence, or wandering the empty coves of the South Coast, Oregon delivers the kind of surf that stays in your soul.
A wild, cinematic, cold-water wonderland full of magic.
