The 7 best beaches near Portland

This hidden gem in the pretty, upscale Lake Oswego neighborhood features 26 acres of trails, picnic areas with barbeques, athletic fields, and a pretty stretch of sand beach along a bend in the Willamette. Visit George Rogers Park to cool off with a swim on a hot summer day, to grill up an alfresco feast, and to check out the “Iron Furnace,” a reminder of the area’s industrial past that’s listed on the National Historic register.

The Best Beaches Near Portland, Oregon

Elizabeth Brownfield is a writer, editor, and researcher with over 15 years of experience writing about travel, food, and the home. She has contributed to such publications as Vogue, Glamour, Food Network, Martha Stewart Living, Domino, Every Day with Rachael Ray, Fitness, Tasting Table, Eater, and TripSavvy.

Portland might not be right on the coast, but that doesn’t mean it’s not blessed with a bevy of beach options. The Willamette River runs straight through PDX, bisecting its east and west sides, and the wide and wonderful Columbia River defines the northern edges of the city, separating Oregon from Washington State. Both rivers offer sandy beaches perfect for cooling off in hot summer months and for strolling, fishing, and kayaking year-round. Plus, the majestic coastline of the Pacific is an easy day trip and a gorgeous drive. From stretches of sand smack dab in the middle of the city to quiet, secluded coves, and Oregon’s most famous coastal destination, here are the best beaches in and around Portland.

Cannon Beach

You probably know Haystack Rock — the iconic sea stack towering 235 feet into the air in Cannon Beach — from sunset photos, postcards, or from the final scenes of the ‘80s cult-fave flick “The Goonies.” And indeed, it’s one of the most popular spots on the coast for Oregonians and visitors alike. It’s well worth the 90-minute drive from Portland to explore the charming town of Cannon Beach, walk the wide stretch of sand on its coast, and gaze up at the sea gills, tufted puffins, and cormorants circling the behemoth rock. From Portland, drive scenic Route 26 straight out to the coast, then jog south a few miles on the 101. Cannon Beach is a doable day trip, but there are also loads of hotel and rental options in the area if you want to extend your stay.

Poet’s Beach

View Map Address Poet’s Beach, Marquam Bridge , Portland , OR 97201 , USA

In summertime, head to Poet’s Beach in South Waterfront Park to take a quick dip in the Willamette River. Portland’s first and only designated swimming area in the river is a sweet, petite stretch of sand tucked underneath the Marquam Bridge. On your way down the path to the beach, you’ll see poems by children from local elementary schools etched into the stones. They’re interspersed with words and translations from Chinook Wawa, a mixture of Native American and English languages once used between Oregon’s first inhabitants and early settlers.

George Rogers Park

This hidden gem in the pretty, upscale Lake Oswego neighborhood features 26 acres of trails, picnic areas with barbeques, athletic fields, and a pretty stretch of sand beach along a bend in the Willamette. Visit George Rogers Park to cool off with a swim on a hot summer day, to grill up an alfresco feast, and to check out the “Iron Furnace,” a reminder of the area’s industrial past that’s listed on the National Historic register.

Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park

View Map Address Short Sand Beach, Oregon 97102 , USA

While you’re at the coast, drive just 7 miles south of Cannon Beach along a gorgeous stretch of the 101 to Arch Cape. Find a spot in one of two parking lots and head down the trail to the picturesque Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, also known as Shorty’s or Smuggler’s Cove. Wind your way along the stream through a half-mile of beautiful forest, cross the bridge, and take in the jaw-dropping beauty of this secluded, sandy beach. It’s one of the best spots at the coast for catching waves, so there are always wetsuit-clad surfers to watch. There’s a lot more to explore too, including hiking trails, vistas with breathtaking views of the Pacific, and tide pools at the south end of the cove where you can usually find anemones and starfish hanging out.

Walton Beach

Want to hit a beach without driving 70-some miles to the coast? Walton Beach on picturesque Sauvie Island may be your best way to get your beach fix without trekking out to the Pacific. If you haven’t ever been to Sauvie Island, you’re in for a treat: the agricultural island is just 10 miles north of downtown Portland, but feels like a world away. Go to pick berries or cut flowers at one of Sauvie’s many u-pick farms, check out the colorful house boats, shop for just-picked produce at an array of stands, tour a lavender farm, or look for bald eagles, blue herons, and sandhill cranes in the wildlife refuge.

There are several beaches on the island, but family- and dog-friendly Walton Beach is the most popular. Access the beach at the north end of Reeder Road, but be forewarned that parking can be difficult on hot summer afternoons. Another word to the wise: If you’re headed to any of Sauvie’s beaches, parks, or wildlife refuges, be sure to pick up a parking permit for $10 at the general store located at the base of the bridge as you cross the river channel to avoid a fine.

Collins Beach

View Map Address Collins Beach (clothing optional), NW Reeder Rd , Portland , OR 97231 , USA

Just up the shore from Walton Beach on Sauvie Island is the sandy, secluded Collins Beach, which sits amid a 12,000-acre fish and game reserve. It looks a lot like Walton, with one important exception: the clothing-optional beach has been a haven for state-sanctioned skinny-dippers since the 70s. If you find yourself staring at all the locals liberated of their bathing suits, move your gaze to the wildlife, boats large and small traveling along the river, and majestic Mt. St. Helens off in the distance.

Kelley Point Park

View Map Address N Kelly Point Park Rd , Portland , OR 97203 , USA

Situated at the pretty spot where the mighty Willamette and Columbia Rivers meet is Kelley Point Park, the northernmost park in Portland. Sadly, swimming is prohibited because of potentially dangerous currents, but the beach is still a great place to stroll, go fishing, walk a dog, or launch a canoe or kayak (just don’t be surprised if the tranquility is interrupted by the ear-splitting horn of a passing cargo ship. Portland is still a port city, after all.). The park also offers 104 acres of greenspace to hike around and explore.

Sellwood Riverfront Park

View Map Address 1221 SE Oaks Park Way , Portland , OR 97202-6550 , USA

Located on the east side of the Willamette River just south of downtown Portland, Sellwood Riverfront Park is a neighborhood-y greenspace locals frequent year-round to walk their dogs in open fields and run along nature trails. In summer months, it’s also a good spot for swimming, floating, and putting in canoes and kayaks. The water is refreshing, but the beach is gravely as opposed to sandy, so it’s a good idea to bring swim shoes if you’ve got ‘em.

The 7 best beaches near Portland

Positioned at the confluence of two major rivers and under two hours from Oregon’s dramatic Pacific coastline, Portland, Oregon is actually quite the beach town. From sandy spots perfect for sunbathing to surf breaks to scenic sea stacks that have attracted cinematographers and Instagramers alike, there’s a little something for everyone.

When the sun is out and the mood strikes, don’t waste daylight figuring out where to go. We narrowed it down to 7 of the best beaches near Portland, Oregon.

1. Cannon Beach

Charming Cannon Beach is one of the most popular beach towns on the Oregon coast. Several premier hotels here cater to a fancier clientele, as do the town’s many boutiques and art galleries. In summer the streets are ablaze with flowers. Lodging is expensive, and the streets are jammed: on a warm, sunny Saturday, you’ll spend a good chunk of time just finding a parking spot. (There are several public lots.)

But there’s a good reason for the town’s popularity. Just offshore, glorious Haystack Rock is a magnet for beachgoers, providing great photo opportunities and tide-pooling possibilities, and the wide, sandy beach stretches for miles.

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2. Astoria

Named after America’s first millionaire, John Jacob Astor, Astoria sits at the 5-mile-wide mouth of the Columbia River and was the first US settlement west of the Mississippi. The city has a long seafaring history and has seen its old harbor, once home to poor artists and writers, attract fancy hotels and restaurants in recent years. Inland are many historical houses, including lovingly restored Victorians – a few converted into romantic B&Bs. It’s nonbeach-y vibe gives it a special ambience on the coast.

3. Walton Beach and Collins Beach

About a 20-minute drive from downtown Portland is Sauvie Island, an agricultural oasis providing an excellent break from Stumptown’s bustle. Its flat, 12-mile country-road loop also makes it a popular place for weekend cyclists. If it’s sand you’re seeking, however, head to Walton Beach, a sunbathing spot on the island’s eastern side, about 9 miles from the Sauvie Island bridge on Reeder Road. Leashed dogs are allowed, but fires and camping are not. If you want a clothing optional experience, head toward Collins Beach at the northern end, past the pavement. The refuge and beaches require a $10 parking permit; get one from the Fish and Wildlife office or an island store.

4. Newport

Tied with Astoria as home to Oregon’s largest commercial fishing fleet, Newport is a lively tourist city with several fine beaches and a world-class aquarium. In 2011 it became the Pacific Fleet Headquarters of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Good restaurants – along with some tacky attractions, gift shops and barking sea lions – abound in the historic bayfront area, while bohemian Nye Beach offers art galleries and a friendly village atmosphere. It’s the perfect beach town for visitors who prefer wuthering on moody, romantic coastlines to getting sand in their suits playing beach volleyball.

The Newport area is also an excellent destination for surfers of all skill levels. Arrive early to get in the lineup at breaks like Otter Rock and Agate Beach. Head to Ossies Surf Shop to rent the gear you’ll need from boards to wetsuits, or to book a lesson if it’s your first time trying to get up on a board and hang ten. Ossies has been in business since 1998, and they really know their stuff.

5. Yachats

One of the Oregon coast’s best-kept secrets is the neat and friendly little town of Yachats (ya-hots). Lying at the base of massive Cape Perpetua, Yachats offers the memorable scenery of a rugged and windswept land. People come here to get away from it all, which isn’t hard to do along this relatively undeveloped stretch of coast. Lining the town is the 804 Coast Trail, providing a lovely walk and access to tide pools and fabulous ocean vistas. It hooks up with the Amanda trail to the south, eventually arriving at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.

Beaches around here are small, secluded affairs that offer tide pools and rocky promontories. Beginning at Cape Perpetua and continuing south about 20 miles is some spectacular shoreline. This entire area was once a series of volcanic intrusions that resisted the pummeling of the Pacific long enough to rise as ocean-side peaks and promontories. Acres of tide pools are home to starfish, sea anemones and sea lions. Picturesque Heceta Head Lighthouse rises above the surf, while tiny beaches line the cliffs.

6. Seaside

Oregon’s largest resort town is popular, gaudy and unpretentious Seaside, which attracts families and young folks looking for a fun and affordable beach getaway. On summer weekends and during holidays or festivals the town’s central precinct – dominated by ice-cream shops, video-game arcades and gift stores – is thronged with tourists and takes on a carnival-like atmosphere. Bicycles and surreys have the run of Seaside’s 2-mile boardwalk, called ‘the Prom,’ but at least most of the miles of sandy beach are relatively peaceful. During spring break, expect a wilder party atmosphere.

There’s great opportunities here for surfers of all skill levels, too, at Seaside Beach and nearby Short Sands Beach and Indian Beach. There are several surf shops in town where you can hire your gear. Surfing isn’t the only sport that has pride of place in Seaside, however. If you’re here on the second weekend in August, check out the largest amateur beach-volleyball tournament in the world. On the fourth weekend in August, the Hood to Coast Relay race jams the main road between Portland and Seaside and packs out the town.

7. Manzanita

One of the more laid-back beach resorts on Oregon’s coast is the hamlet of Manzanita, boasting lovely white-sand beaches and a slightly upscale clientele. It’s much smaller and far less hyped than Cannon Beach, and still retains a peaceful atmosphere, although there’s a lot more going on here these days than even a few years ago. Still, it’s easy to find peace and quiet, relax on the beach, and take part in some mellow activities.

To stretch your legs a bit, hike up nearby Neahkahnie Mountain, from where you get a spectacular view over the coast. Surfers and body boarders can head a quarter-mile from the highway parking lot to Short Sand Beach, which offers good waves. There are kayaking opportunities just 4 miles south in Wheeler – and the Wheeler Marina rents paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes.

17 Best Beaches in Portland, Oregon!

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If you’re spending a few days in Oregon’s largest city, you might be wondering where the best Portland beaches are…

OK fine, maybe not, because really, who thinks of beaches when they think of a big city? BUT you may be needing a little sandy getaway from the hustle and bustle, right? And yes, you can find beaches near Portland to get your fix (wahoo!)

Best Beaches Near Portland

While you’re here to learn more about Portland beaches, let’s all make sure we’re on the same page. We’re in a HUGE city, a place that almost shouldn’t have beaches. So we’re going to use the word “beach” lightly. Some of these “beaches” may not have sandy shorelines and some may be located on rocky cliffs…

One thing is for sure, you’ll love these escapes from the city! Let’s just keep our expectations in line as you won’t find lovely, white, soft sand beaches with gentle rolling ocean waves here. I think we already knew that but it bears a mention.

1. Scappoose Bay Kayaking

This is one of the most popular beaches near Portland for adventurers! Located just northwest of Portland in the Scappoose Bay area of the Columbia River (which separates Oregon and Washington), there’s plenty to see here.

Look out for birds and other wildlife, take in views of Mount St Helen and rent a canoe to enjoy the mangrove waterways.

Next Adventure hires out kayaks and is a great source of information for when you are visiting. You can contact them in advance of your trip to check that kayaking will be possible, or check the tides independently – try to go at a time when they are most accessible (the higher the tide the better).

Take the US-30 W for about 24 miles to reach Scappoose Bay and turn down Old Portland Road just after Warren. Scappoose Bay will be on your right. It’s a 39 minute, 28-mile drive from the city center.

While there isn’t necessarily a beach here, there is a dock and you can float around the mangroves in your kayak and bask under the sun (if it’s a good day), which is sometimes better than roasting on a beach!

2. Sauvie Island (Definitely Where Some of The Best Beaches Near Portland Are!)

Sauvie Island is in between the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and is a whopping 24,000 acres in size – about the same as Manhattan!

The beaches here are all riverside, but they’re well worth visiting. Head to the north and east coast of the island for sandy beaches and swimming spots!

You can also do a nice 6-mile round trip hike around Warrior Rock Lighthouse, which is relatively easy and mostly shaded. There is a long beach right next to the lighthouse, where you can stop to rest or eat lunch! You’ll probably have this beach to yourself too.

Also on the island is a lovely winery called Bella Organic Farm and other places to try local produce.

You can drive to the island via a bridge, but it costs $10 to park pretty much anywhere on the island. Stop at Cracker Barrel Grocery to purchase your parking ticket.

Driving down US-30 W for around 9.8 miles to reach Sauvie Island before turning right over Sauvie Island beach. This will take you onto the island – once you’re here, follow signs for parking. It’s a 25 – 35 minute (around 18 miles) drive, depending on where you park.

3. Kelley Point Park

Also situated between the Columbia and Williamette Rivers, Kelley Point Park is one of Portland’s most easily accessible beaches.

It’s not necessarily the most scenic – the area is very industrial, and it’s only just out of the city – less than a 20-minute drive away, it’s a practical beach to know about!

There are some paved walking trails and a sandy area where you can kick back and relax. This is a bustling area with boat traffic, so it’s not recommended to enter the water – but it’s still a nice nature fix close to the city.

4. Clackamette Park

Positioned on the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas River, Clackamette Park is a lovely place to take in the riverside scenery and try a few watersports.

It’s a popular destination for paddleboarding, with a few launch sites around the peninsula. Alternatively, there’s plenty of space here to chill out and enjoy the scenery!

5. South Waterfront Park and Poets Beach

South Waterfront Park is a popular part of the city, with paved walking trails and hidden beaches. These paved walking trails lead to Poets Beach, a popular river swimming spot close to the town, which is a must-visit during the summer months!

There is no lifeguard on duty, and swimming is at each individual’s own risk. It’s also recommended to wear swimming shoes while you’re in the water.

It’s also a lovely spot for cycling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. If you’re into watersports or outdoor activities but don’t want to go too far from Portland, this is your place.

This is the closest of all the Portland beaches – it’s walkable from downtown! Walk or drive towards the Williamette River and the Tilikum Crossing Bridge (this will be south for most people). The South Waterfront Park is just before.

6. Sellwood Park and Spring Water Willamette Trail (A Popular Beach in Portland)

The beautiful Sellwood Park and the Spring Water Willamette Trail are just south of Portland. There’s a small marina and docks here for kayaks, as well as a beautiful beach area to chill out.

There are trails for hikers, bikers, or runners and plenty of space to fish. There’s also a small market that operates on Sundays!

7. Milwaukee Bay Park

Located in the Willamette River, Milwaukee Bay Park is a scenic landscaped park.

It was created in 2019 as a place for recreation for locals and tourists in Milwaukee and the surrounding areas. With enviable river views and a mini beach to relax, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re at the coast!

There are also opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing – so if you want a little more adventure, Milwaukee Bay Park is your place!

8. George Rogers Park

Sitting close to Lake Oswego, George Rogers Park is the oldest of the area’s community parks. It has an extensive history, with Native Americans living on the land as far back as 10,000 years.

It occupies 26 acres and has walking trails and recreational activities. There’s also a historical site called the “iron furnace” that nods to this area’s industrial past.

You can take in some beautiful views of the Willamette River from here. Or, head down to the waterfront, where there is a small beach and opportunities for kayaking and other watersports.

9. High Rocks

High Rocks is one of the closest Portland beaches – it’s technically within the city’s metropolitan area, but you’ll feel world’s away as you gaze over the beautiful water!

This is part of the Clackamas River and is a popular swimming spot, especially during the summer when the city can be roasting.

It’s also famous as a cliff jumping site. Jump at your own risk; the area can be dangerous, with strong currents and rocky ledges. The water can also be surprisingly cold.

If cliff jumping doesn’t appeal to you, there are also opportunities to kayak. There are seasonal lifeguards, so check the conditions with them before kayaking.

If you don’t fancy taking to the water, there are also a few trails to enjoy in the vicinity. High Rocks is very close to the freeway, but while you’re walking around, you won’t believe that you’re in proximity to the city.

10. Carver Park

Carver Park Reserve is a small area running alongside the Clackamas River. There are a few small beaches within the park where you can chill out on the lake.

There’s also a boat ramp so that you can travel on the water, and opportunities to go fishing.

Parking is $6 per day, and there are restrooms on-site. It’s the perfect quiet place to picnic or chill outdoors when the weather is warm!

This is also a take-out area for floating the river! Head to Barton Park and enjoy 6 miles of floating on the Clackamas River. You’ll see the big Carver Park take-out sign and the beach so you know when to exit.

11. Broughton Beach

Broughton Beach is primarily considered one of the best urban beaches near Portland. It runs along the Columbia River, but it’s a vast sandy expanse (1.3 miles in total length) that looks like it should be at the shores of the Pacific!

This is a popular swimming spot, but be aware of currents and river conditions before entering.
You can also go kayaking or boating from the beach.

There’s a marine drive bike path that goes along the river too, past Broughton Beach. This path is also for hikers. It costs $5 for car parking, but this is free if you have an annual pass. Do note this Portland beach is awesome, but you’re directly in front of the PDX airport so it might not be the quietest spot.

If you’re feeling munchy, take a seat at Salty’s on the River, a four-decade-old restaurant right on the river with delicious seafood on offer.

Portland Beaches Just Over The Bridge in Washington

It’s not surprising the Columbia River Gorge offers up some gorgeous beaches and this slice of paradise is shared with Washington. So just make a quick hop over the bridge and you’ll find more cool beaches near Portland.

12. Wintler Park and Beach

Vancouver-based Wintler Park is a riverside beach park. Sitting on the banks of the Columbia River, the park encompasses 12 acres and is a lovely place to relax.

There is a paved walkway where you can take in the whole park, and picnic tables and restroom facilities make this a lovely day trip from the city. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Hood from the beach!

Wintler Park is over the border in Washington. Take the I-5 N, cross the state border, and drive along WA-14 E to junction 3. Then Wintler Park is just off the highway. This is a good spot to watch the planes from PDX too!

13. Surprise Beach

Just over the border in Vancouver, Washington, is Surprise Beach. This is a small beach along the Columbia River. From the banks, you can look across the river into Oregon.

It is close to Fort Vancouver and other downtown attractions, making it the perfect place to chill out if you’re visiting Vancouver for the day. There is also a great view of I5 bridge.

14. Captain William Clark Park and Cottonwood Beach

This park dates back to 1806, when it was established by Lewis and William Clark. They built a park while finding provisions to help them sail through the Columbia River Gorge.

Nowadays, it is a popular park, with one of the best Portland beaches along the Columbia River, despite technically being in Washington! You can relax on the beach and soak in the beautiful river scenery, take your bike and cycle along the river, or go hiking on one of the popular trails.

The park spreads over 93 acres and has important historic sites, picnic benches, and restroom facilities.

Portland Beaches That Are a Day Trip Away

The Oregon coast is only about 1.5 hours away from Portland’s city center which means it’s totally possible to rent a car (or hop into your own) and head to the ACTUAL beach. Like at the ocean, where beaches are often found. 🙂

While it’s still going to be a bit of a drive compared to some of our Portland beaches on this list, the Oregon coast is worth it. In fact, may we convince you to make it a long weekend if you can? Maybe some of our other posts can help you plan your Oregon coast trip!

15. Cannon Beach

Around an hour and a half from Portland, Cannon Beach is a spectacle. This section of the Oregon coastline is famous for the momentous Haystack Rock, beautiful sunsets, and endless sands and was voted as one of the most romantic beach areas in the US.

Don’t miss the nearby Oswald West State Park, which has many hiking trails and epic viewpoints. Or, visit Hug Point, which has a beautiful waterfall.

16. Indian Beach

Located in Ecola State Park, Indian Beach is a small bay that is quite secluded from the rest of the coastline. It’s a lovely place to catch some solitude, go surfing, or explore the tide pools.

It’s also got a lot of nature – look for eagles, elk, deer on land, and migrating gray whales in the sea.

It’s worth exploring the rest of Ecola State Park, too. This park spans nine miles of Oregon’s coastline and has plenty of hiking trails. There are places to surf, enjoy a picnic and look out for wildlife and you might recognize countless vistas which have made their way into landscape photography books!

It’s about an hour and a half to Indian Beach from Portland – around 81 miles.

17. Short Sands

Short Sands Beach – or Shorty’s, as the locals say – is a prime surfing destination in Oregon. It has good surfing breaks, and the cove is quite well protected from all-weather events.

However, don’t worry if you don’t surf – it’s still well worth heading to Short Sands, and it’s definitely one of the best Portland beaches! It’s a popular beach, especially during the summertime. However, it’s beautiful across seasons- even during winter.

Short Sands Beach is located in Oswald West State Park. There’s no direct access from the main parking lot – there’s a half-mile trail through Sitka spruce trees to get there.

If you fancy a hike, you can walk from Short Sands beach to Cape Falcon, which is a moderate route that takes in some of the best of this state park.

It’s around an hour and 40 minutes to reach Short Sands Beach from Portland (just under 90 miles).

From small riverside hangouts to vast sandy expanses, there are so many beaches near Portland to enjoy. So if you’re in the city in the sweltering summer, don’t worry. Just refer to this list and head to one of the swimming holes, kayaking spots, or sandy shores. These Portland beaches are most popular in the summer, but adventurous souls can enjoy hiking, biking, boating, and surfing throughout the year!