Short Beach, one of the premier rockhounding destinations on the North Oregon Coast, is a secluded cove located 1.3 miles from the charming town of Oceanside. It lies just south of of Cape Meares.

Access is easy, with parking available at the Short Beach trailhead along Cape Meares Loop Road. From there, a short trail (about 0.25 miles) leads down to the beach, though some sections can be steep and slippery.

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 stretch of coastline offers excellent gravel bars and good opportunities to find agates, jasper, and other materials.

Interesting Facts: At the southern end of Short Beach, a rocky headland forms the barrier between Short Beach and the secluded Lost Boy Beach. According to local stories, it may have been named after a boy who disappeared in the early 20th century. The beach has no direct road or trail access.

⚠️ Reaching it from Short Beach or Tunnel Beach is dangerous, even during low tides, due to the risk of being trapped by incoming water.

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 geology pick and Sand Dipper Square Scoop.

You can find rocks year-round, but winter and spring are especially productive. After storms reshape the shoreline and low tides expose hidden material, you can collect rocks with minimal effort

Among the materials commonly found are agate, jasper, petrified wood, quartz, calcite, zeolite, and sea glass. Agate and jasper are the most common and can be found along much of the beach.

While most agates have a dull, weathered surface, some are small and clear. Varieties include black, banded, carnelian, and even 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.

There is no camping permitted at Short Beach. The closest campground is located at the Cape Lookout State Park.

You can find comfortable accommodations just 1.5 miles away in the small community of Oceanside, or alternatively, explore choices 10 miles away in the larger city of Tillamook.

Lodging in Oceanside

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Oceanside

Lodging in Tillamook

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Tillamook

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