Yaquina Head is one of the Oregon coast’s most beautiful spots. With its pounding surf and pretty lighthouse, this place is definitely picturesque. The next time you visit, make sure to check out Cobble Beach. It’s not the kind of beach that lends itself to long, barefoot strolls in the sand – in fact, you won’t find any sand here at all. Instead, it’s covered with smooth basalt stones. You won’t miss the sand because you’ll be too busy exploring everything this beach has to offer.
Cobble Beach is a pretty little cove that’s definitely worth a visit. It offers lighthouse views, plenty of wildlife, and gorgeous tide pools.
LDELD/flickr
Climb down the stairs to get to the beach. It’s a bit of a slog down and back up, but it’s well worth the effort.
Kyle L/Google
There are a few viewing decks with informational panels, and you’ll want to stop to snap some photos of this stunning view as you descend.
Curtis Conkey/Google
You won’t find much sand on this beach. It’s covered with polished, black basalt cobblestones that rattle and roll under your feet as you walk.
LDELD/fickr
As the waves move in and back out, the stones make a distinct noise that sounds like millions of tiny hands clapping. Perhaps they’re applauding the unique beauty of this little beach!
Phil King/flickr
You won’t miss the sand at all - this is a beach that’s made for exploring. During low tide, you can carefully make your way out on the rocks to examine the tide pools.
Alex Woo/Google
They’re teeming with life, from tiny fish and crabs to vibrant anemones and starfish.
Henry Yang/Google
Keep an eye on the water just off the coastine - you’re likely to see harbor seals here. They swim and frolic in the waters mere feet from where you’re standing, and in the spring you’ll even see seal pups playing in the surf.
Rick Cameron/flickr
Seabirds make their nests on the little rock islands offshore, and during some times of the year, they number in the thousands. Make sure to bring a pair of binoculars with you to get an up-close view.
Bureau of Land Management/flickr
If you love wildlife photography, this beach is pure heaven.
Rick Cameron/Google
You’ll find Cobble Beach off Highway 101 near Newport. Check out your tide chart and visit during low tide for the best tide pool exploration.
Marek Luthardt/Google
Have you visited Cobble Beach? If so, tell our readers what you thought of it!
LDELD/flickr
Kyle L/Google
Curtis Conkey/Google
LDELD/fickr
Phil King/flickr
Alex Woo/Google
Henry Yang/Google
Rick Cameron/flickr
Bureau of Land Management/flickr
Rick Cameron/Google
Marek Luthardt/Google
The Yaquina Head light is just one of many beautiful lighthouses along the coast. Take our lighthouse road trip to see even more.
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