Short Beach, one of the premier rockhounding destinations on the North Oregon Coast, is nestled 1.3 miles from the charming town of Oceanside. This secluded cove lies between Cape Meares to the north and a southern headland.

Next to the southern end of this beach is Lost Boy Beach. A story says that the beach was named after a local boy who disappeared here at the beginning of the 20th century. The secluded pocket beach is lacking direct road or trail access. Direct access from Short or Tunnel Beaches is unsafe, even at very low tides, due to the risk of being caught by incoming tides. If you choose to explore this area, ensure you do so during exceptionally low tides (less than -2 feet), which occur only a few times a year, and return to safety promptly.

True to its name, Short Beach may not impress with its length, spanning a mere 0.62 miles (1 km). The locals speculate that the name "Short" may be linked to one of the early residents in the area.

Despite its modest size, this enchanting coastline boasts a rich array of rocks and minerals waiting to be discovered.

Short Beach Rockhounding

Collecting the minerals is straightforward, with many interesting finds available simply by picking them up. For enhanced productivity and ease, consider bringing a hammer, geology pick, and a Sand Dipper Square Scoop.

You can find interesting rocks throughout the year, but the winter and spring months are especially productive. After storms rearrange rocks on the shore and low tides reveal hidden collectible gemstones, you can collect rocks with minimal effort.

Among the treasures awaiting discovery are agate, jasper, petrified wood, quartz, calcite, zeolite, and sea glass. Agates and jaspers, the most prevalent, can be found along the entire beach.

While most agates display a dull, abraded surface, some are small and clear, and variations include black, banded, carnelian, and enhydro agates.

Jaspers are found in yellow, red, green, gray, and brown hues and are often attached to basalt volcanic rocks. A geology pick or hammer may be necessary for extraction.

You can also find zeolites, and golden calcite rhombs. Although not readily visible, you may need to break some rocks to uncover these treasures, so wearing protective glasses is advisable.

The trail from the parking area to the beach is a short 0.25 miles, though it includes steep steps.

Please avoid disturbing wildlife and adhere to all rock-collecting rules and regulations.

Check Rules and Rockhounding Regulations for Oregon Coast and Oregon State Parks.

When you visit Short Beach, make sure to drop by the charming community of Oceanside, known for its sandy beaches, scenic views, and excellent rockhounding opportunities. While lodging options may be limited in Oceanside, you can still find hotels and cabins that offer captivating ocean vistas, ensuring a scenic and memorable stay.

Tunnel Beach sits right next door and will take you to the fantastic rockhounding through the historic 1926 tunnel.

Just a short drive away, Cape Meares features the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse. In addition to its historical significance and scenic views, this area is perfect for hiking and mushroom-picking.

Located just 10 miles away, the city of Tillamook is home to the world-famous Tillamook Cheese Factory, offering a delightful stop for cheese lovers.

From US 101 in Tillamook,

Take OR 31 west (3d Street) and follow west 8.8 miles to Cape Meares Loop
Bear right onto Cape Meares Loop and follow 1.2 miles to the small parking area along the road and trailhead.

There is no assigned parking area at the trail to the beach but when you arrived you will see cars parking along the road. To get to the beach, take a 0.25-mile trail down from the road. The hike will include a set of stairs constructed by local residents. A few people got injured walking via an undeveloped, slippery path, so stairs were built to make the walk safer.

Phone: 503-842-3182
stateparks.oregon.gov

GPS: N 45°28.522' W 123°57.963' | 45.4754, -123.966