Summer Espresso With a View in Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site
Hidden gem lovers and Pacific Northwest adventurers, this one’s for you! Arcadia Beach on the northern Oregon coast is a natural wonder worthy of enjoying for a few days. If you’re planning a PNW trip or looking for fun summer locations to explore, you might want to add this to your list.
Here’s an overview of all the reasons Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site is worth a visit, plus some exciting things to do while there, a list of eco-friendly packing items, and all the beach summer travel tips you’ll need.
Why Visit Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site?
Arcadia Beach offers dramatic coastal scenery, serenity compared to neighboring beaches, awe-inspiring tide pools, and easy access from the highway.
It stretches across a mile of shoreline between Hug Point and Humbug Point with incredible rocky stacks, driftwood, and carved cliff views. If nature takes your breath away or you fancy yourself a photographer, you’ll absolutely love this area.
Just down the beach is Cannon Beach, but it can get crowded and noisy, especially in the summer season when the weather is sunny and warm. Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site is perfect for a peaceful beach stroll, quiet family time, or a relaxing beach picnic without fighting for space.
While strolling the shores around low tide, you’ll be treated to several tide pools, with chances to see crabs, starfish, and other shallow-dwelling sea life up close and personal.
One of the best things about Arcadia Beach is how easy it is to get to! It’s just off Highway 101, has convenient parking, and costs nothing to enter and enjoy.
What Can You Do at Arcadia Beach?
Want to add to your summer bucket list? Here are some fun things to do this summer:
Take a peaceful beach stroll: Unwind with a slow walk along the shore without dodging crowds or swarms of beach umbrellas.
Bring your camera: Bring your camera to capture tide pools, rock formations, and sunsets, and a charger like the EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10,000 mAh) so you have enough power to capture all the beauty. Snap stunning photos of rock formations, tall cliffs, or even a cloudy sunset. It’s a dream setting for nature photography.
Explore low tide pools: When the tide rolls out, you may be lucky enough to find tide pools with small sea creatures.
Climb around Lion Rock: If you’re up for an adventure, consider exploring the base of Lion Rock at low tides for an up-close look at the coast.
Enjoy a picnic: Picnic tables are available for free just steps away from the beach, so you can feast with one of the best views in the region.
Pop over to Hug Point: Have extra time? Walk south to Hug Point to find waterfalls, caves, and more coastal magic.
What to Pack for a Sustainable Trip to Arcadia Beach
Ensure your visit is comfortable and complete with all of the essentials packed for the journey:
Sustainable Basics
Reusable water bottles
Eco-friendly sunscreen (reef-safe formulas to protect marine life)
Reusable cutlery and food containers
Biodegradable wet wipes
Quick-dry cotton towels instead of paper towels
Power Solutions
Solar Generator - For extended trips, consider bringing a solar generator like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus + 160W Solar Panel to stay powered up. The PNW is known for rainy, dreary days, but the sun comes out in the summer, making it helpful for all your warm-weather adventures in the area.
Solar-powered string lights or lanterns (for late beach days or evening picnics)
Battery-powered flashlights
Food Storage
Portable Refrigerator: Power an energy-efficient model like the EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Refrigerator Freezer using a portable battery or solar panels. The GLACIER has dual chilled and frozen storage compartments to keep all your essential produce fresh. With a built-in ice maker, you can even enjoy iced coffees or espresso martinis!
Reusable ice packs
Insulated cooler bags
Comfort and Setup
Portable chairs
Cotton beach blankets or towels
Compact sunshade or umbrella
Reusable trash container (so you can leave no trace)
Pet Items (If Needed)
Leash (as required by Oregon ocean shore rules)
Potty bags
Portable water dish
Arcadia Beach Summer Travel Tips
Visiting on weekday mornings helps you avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful scenery. This allows you to avoid the crowds, as weekends get especially busy during July and August.
Pack layers, even if you only go out for a few hours. The weather along the Oregon coast can change quickly. Bring a windbreaker, a sweater, and comfortable walking shoes with grip.
Arrive early. There’s a parking lot onsite, but it’s small and can fill up quickly in the summer. Be prepared for a steep trail down the beach and a hike on the way up.
Never turn your back on the ocean when you’re close to the shore. “Sneaker waves” can surprise you and pose risks. Be aware of tide changes and supervise children closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arcadia Beach Dog Friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Arcadia Beach. They don’t have to be leashed, but must be in control of their handler, meaning they are within direct eyesight and respond to commands. Domestic handlers must always carry a leash to use if needed or directed by a park employee.
Is Camping Allowed at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site?
No, camping and overnight stays are not allowed at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site. If you want to stay nearby, you should explore Cannon Beach and Seaside, two close coastal towns with plenty of accommodation options.
Why Choose Arcadia Beach Over Cannon Beach?
Arcadia Beach is close to Cannon Beach but is often less crowded with tourists, creating a more peaceful, tranquil environment. It’s better for visitors who don’t want to battle crowds and would rather enjoy the natural beauty as the main event.
Arcadia Beach Combines Nature, Peace, and Photo-Worthy Moments
Arcadia Beach is a fantastic summer destination for those who envision themselves sipping espresso in the morning with a view, then exploring tide pools in the evening at low tide, all surrounded by a quiet, serene coastline. Want to enhance your experience even further? Be sure to pack a power solution like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus + 160W Solar Panel to power up all your devices so you can spend long, leisurely days enjoying the natural beauty.