The beaches in the coastal town of Gold Beach, are scenic sandy and rocky shores along the Southern Oregon Coast. They are easily accessible it from the scenic Highway 101 in the city of Gold Beach.
The main beach in Gold Beach is South Beach. It stretches for five miles from the Rogue River South Jetty to Cape Sebastian. South Beach is sometimes refereed to as Hunter Creek Beach, named after the stream that empties into the Pacific Ocean near Kissing Rock.
Kissing Rock is the most prominent landmark on South Beach. This impressive sea stack rises above the beach and highway, surrounded by smaller rocks.
There are multiple stories about the origin of its name, but the most popular one suggests it was a romantic meet-up spot for couples.
Beach Access Points
South Beach has multiple access points: the South Jetty, the Gold Beach Visitor Center, and the Kissing Rock pullout at Hunter Creek Bridge.
Gold Beach Rockhounding
Gold Beach is a paradise for rockhounds. The wild Rogue River brings an abundance of fascinating rocks to the banks and beach for you to discover.
Here, you can find agate, jasper, gabbro, quartz, and petrified wood. Among the most prized finds are large agates and brecciated jasper.
The gravel bars and the area around Hunter Creek offer some of the best spots for rockhounding. For the best chance of finding collectible gems, visit at low tide after a powerful storm.
Beyond the Rocks: Exploring the Area
Gold Beach is a unique town on the Oregon coast, offering an incredible beach-life experience surrounded by natural beauty. The area is perfect for beachcombing, rockhounding, fishing, surfing, tidepooling, and more.
South Beach hosts an annual festival similar to the Finders Keepers Glass Floats Event in Lincoln City. From early February until the end of April, the three miles of the beach from the South Jetty to just beyond Kissing Rock become the grounds of a glass float treasure hunt.
Handcrafted glass orbs are hidden in the grass or among driftwood above the surf line, and each person is allowed to keep one float. If you find a tagged glass float, visit the Gold Beach Visitor Center for a chance to win a prize.
The long stretch of sandy shore is also ideal for rugged coastal hikes and fat tire biking. South Beach is a popular spot for both surfing and fishing. Anglers flock to the area in late summer and fall for salmon fishing, while surf fishing is excellent year-round.
When you are in the area, be sure to visit nearby attractions like Otter Point State Recreation Site, Tseriadun State Recreation Site, and Prehistoric Garden.
Gold Beach Oregon | Facts
Material: Agate, jasper, nephrite, gabbro, quartz, and petrified wood
Tools: Sand Dipper Square Scoop
Land type: Rocky and sandy beach
Best time to visit: Year-round
Land manager: State Parks
Fees: None
Location: Gold Beach • Oregon • USA
Road access: Any vehicle
Places to Stay Near Gold Beach
The town of Gold Beach has a lot of hotels and other accommodations to choose from.
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Gold Beach Oregon Directions & Contacts
From downtown Gold Beach to Kissing Rock Pullout,
- Take Highway 101 for 1.5 miles
- Once you cross Hunter Creek bridge, Kissing Rock pullout will be in about 0.2 miles on your right.