The Best Beachcombing Tips for the Oregon Coast
Oregon’s 363-mile coastline is a paradise for beachcombers, offering unique finds from natural gemstones to shipwrecked relics. With a bit of knowledge and patience, you can uncover stunning pieces of the coast’s history and geology. Here’s how to make the most of your beachcombing experience.
1. Know the Best Beaches for Beachcombing
Why It’s Important: Some beaches are better than others for finding unique treasures.
Top Beachcombing Spots:
- Yachats & Cape Perpetua: Known for agates and fossils
- Lincoln City: Famous for its hidden glass floats
- Bandon: A great spot for petrified wood and shells
- Oceanside & Netarts: Best for finding Japanese glass fishing floats after storms
Local Tip: Visit after winter storms when the tides bring in new deposits of treasures.
2. Check Tide Charts Before You Go
Why It’s Important: The best time to beachcomb is during low tide when more shoreline is exposed.
How to Plan:
- Use NOAA tide charts or the Tides Near Me app to track low tides
- Early mornings are ideal for less crowded conditions
- Negative tides (especially during full and new moons) expose the most shoreline
Local Tip: Avoid beachcombing during high tide, as waves can make conditions unsafe and limit the treasures available.
3. Search Near Driftwood and Rock Formations
Why It’s Important: Treasures often collect in areas where ocean currents slow down.
Best Places to Look:
- Along the edges of large driftwood piles
- In rocky tide pools and crevices
- At the high-tide line, where debris gathers
Local Tip: Keep an eye out for “pockets” of gravel—this is where agates and fossils tend to settle.
4. Know What to Look For
Why It’s Important: Understanding what you’re looking for increases your chances of finding valuable or unique items.
Common Beachcombing Finds:
- Agates: Translucent stones found in many colors
- Seashells: Best found in winter and early spring
- Driftwood & Sea Glass: Worn smooth by ocean waves
- Japanese Glass Floats: Rare but highly prized, often found after big storms
- Fossils: Look for shell imprints in sandstone and shale
Local Tip: Hold agates up to the sun to see their beautiful translucent patterns.
5. Bring the Right Gear
Why It’s Important: Having the right tools makes beachcombing more efficient and enjoyable.
What to Pack:
- Mesh bag or bucket to carry finds
- Small shovel or sand scoop for digging in soft gravel
- Sturdy waterproof shoes for walking over rocks
- Gloves for handling sharp objects like barnacle-covered driftwood
Local Tip: A headlamp can be useful for early morning or evening searches.
6. Respect the Beach and Leave No Trace
Why It’s Important: Protecting the coastline ensures future generations can enjoy beachcombing.
Beachcombing Etiquette:
- Only take what you need—leave some treasures for others to find
- Avoid taking live marine creatures or disturbing tide pools
- Follow state regulations—some fossils and artifacts may be protected
Local Tip: If you find something unique and aren’t sure if it’s legal to keep, check with a local visitor center or park ranger.
7. Join the Lincoln City Glass Float Hunt
Why It’s Important: Lincoln City’s famous Finders Keepers program hides glass floats along the beach year-round.
How to Participate:
- Glass floats are hidden daily between Roads End and Siletz Bay
- Follow @LincolnCityGlassFloats for clues and updates
- If you find one, it’s yours to keep!
Local Tip: The best time to find a glass float is early in the morning before the beaches get busy.
