If you're looking for a place to satisfy your geologic cravings in a scenic environment, look no further than Tunnel Beach in Oregon near the small charming town of Oceanside. This spot is a true gem for those who love to hunt for rocks and minerals.

The unique feature of this place is the 90-foot-long pathway through the basalt headland of Maxwell Point.

Built in 1926 by the Rosenberg family, who once owned a resort in Oceanside, the tunnel begins as a round concrete corridor and transitions into rugged, rocky walls as you approach the beach. Inside, you'll find boulders and driftwood brought in by powerful waves and king tides.

Bring a flashlight or use your phone to navigate the debris and slippery rocks inside the tunnel.

Accessing Tunnel Beach involves a scenic yet straightforward 0.4-mile one-way hike from the parking lot. During low tides, you can also explore around Maxwell Point from Ocean Beach.

⚠️Tunnel Beach Safety: Beware of Strong Waves and Flooding

Tunnel Beach often has strong, powerful waves because it sits just beyond Maxwell Point, a rocky headland that funnels and concentrates incoming ocean swell. This makes waves hit the shore with more force than at nearby beaches.

During winter storms and king tides, those waves grow even bigger and can rush into the narrow tunnel, flooding it quickly and block the way back, leaving people trapped near the cliffs.

Rocks also get slippery, and strong currents can pull you off balance.

Always check the tide and weather before going, and stay away from the tunnel during high surf or king tides when the waves are extra strong and dangerous.

Tunnel Beach Rockhounding

Tunnel Beach, located between Oceanside Beach and Lost Boy Beach, has a 300-yard stretch of sand and cobble. It’s a favorite spot for rockhounds, with many gemstones and minerals to find year-round. The best collecting is usually in winter, especially after storms or low tides following king tides.

The most common gemstones here are clear, yellow, and carnelian agates, green, blue, and yellow jaspers, zeolites, calcite, and marine fossils.

You can find zeolites by searching among loose rocks. Look for small, weathered basalt pieces that have hollow spots or crystal-filled cavities. These loose rocks often wash down from the cliffs and may contain zeolite crystals such as heulandite, clinoptilolite, erionite, and mordenite in white, pink, yellow, or green.

There’s no need to damage the cliffs—many good specimens can be found right on the ground.

Collecting beach rocks typically requires no tools, but a Sand Dipper Square Scoop can be helpful.

If your goal is to find zeolites, look for basalt rocks with exposed amygdules. Use a small rock hammer, chisel, or a geology pick to break promising rocks. Always wear safety glasses.

Always check Rules and Rockhounding Regulations for Oregon Coast and Oregon State Parks before collecting.

When visiting Tunnel Beach, be sure to explore the delightful community of Oceanside, celebrated for its sandy beaches, picturesque landscapes, and great rockhounding experiences. While accommodation choices in Oceanside and Netarts might be somewhat restricted, you can find hotels and cabins that offer enchanting ocean views, guaranteeing a scenic and unforgettable stay.

When you visit Tunnel Beach, stop by Oceanside with its sandy beaches, scenic views, and great rockhounding.

Short Beach, located just a short distance, is ideal for both rockhounding and fishing, providing another excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts..

Cape Meares, with a historic Cape Meares Lighthouse, is also just a short drive away. This area is not only home to a significant landmark but also offers fantastic hiking trails and opportunities for mushroom picking, adding to your coastal adventure.