Tunnel Beach — Attraction in Tillamook

Tunnel Beach is honestly hit or miss. It's a beautiful place and the main beach, before you go through the tunnel, always has some agates and other cool finds during low tide. The beach on the other side of the tunnel is lovely with eye catching rock formations and tide pools. However, it's often crowded and overly visited. The tunnel will usually have someone walking in front of you struggling to get through what should be around a one to two minute walk. I've gone through at times when there are lines of people trying to cross to the other side and there is someone at the start holding everyone up and leaving the rest of us standing there in the dark unable to do anything other than wait or try not to shuffle into the trapped person inches in front of you. Patience and kindness is necessary, but it's definitely frustrating. The tunnel is rocky and unlit, which is not a huge problem except that it is not for the less sure-footed. However, there are often people traversing it who find themselves unwilling to step more than a couple inches at a time. I feel for them, but I also feel for the dozens of people coming and going through the tunnel at the same time. Also, exiting the tunnel on the other side leaves you on a pebble/rock covered hill that also must be traversed down to the sandy part of the beach. It shouldn't be a problem unless you have some ankle/knee/foot issues. Keep in mind, the beaches are often packed, especially the one you get to once you go through the tunnel. There are times when there are people climbing on every surface, walking in every scenic shot, crowding around every tidepool, clustering literally everywhere. Particularly in the summer months. Parking can also be nearly impossible at times and you can expect to hike or find a different path into the main beach. Sometimes this means a fairly steep climb. However, you may get lucky if you go on a mild late fall/winter day during low tide in the middle of the week. You might have less crowds, easy access, a quieter beach, excellent agate hunting, and a tunnel unhindered by dozens of people. Having grown up on the Oregon coast, I won't go back anymore unless it's during the quieter months. It just...

Tunnel Beach in Oceanside, Oregon, is a truly remarkable and somewhat hidden treasure along the Pacific coast. This beach offers a unique experience that sets it apart from other coastal destinations.

The beach is accessed via a 100-yard tunnel that cuts through the cliffside. Walking through this tunnel feels like entering a secret passageway, adding an element of adventure to your visit. The tide pools at Tunnel Beach are a major highlight. These natural formations host a diverse array of marine life, including starfish, sea snails, mussels, and small crabs. Exploring these tide pools offers a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world and provides a hands-on educational experience for all ages. The beach itself is stunning, with dramatic cliffs, rock formations, and the expansive Pacific Ocean. The secluded nature of Tunnel Beach means it often feels like your own private paradise.

Tunnel Beach is one of my favorite spots on the Oregon coast. The tunnel adds a sense of mystery and excitement to the journey, and emerging on the other side to find a beautiful, secluded beach is truly rewarding. The tide pools are a particular highlight for me. I could spend hours exploring them, marveling at the variety of sea life. It's a fantastic place for photography, relaxation, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the coast.

Tunnel Beach in Oceanside, Oregon, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and enchanting coastal experience. From the adventurous tunnel entrance to the captivating tide pools, this beach has something special for everyone. I highly recommend making a stop at Tunnel Beach—you won't be disappointed by the natural beauty and tranquility of this...

There are actually two beaches here so you will have twice the fun! Parking is free. The parking lots are located at Oceanside Beach State Recreation Area with flush toilet restrooms. Between the two parking lots is both a ramp and concrete stair way leading to Oceanside Beach. Once on the sandy beach, walk over to the right (north) and you will see the concrete entrance of the tunnel on the side of the cape. The tunnel is not long but it can be dark and the floor is uneven, so use caution. Tunnel Beach is a small cobblestone cove. A wonderland for rock hounds, beach combers and marine wildlife watchers. Watching the waves crash on the majestic rock formations just off shore and listening to the waves clapping over the cobbles will make you glad you found this "secret" cove! Back through the tunnel and onto the sand on Oceanside Beach, you can sit and relax with your toes in the sand, fly a kite, and play in the waves. You won't find as many rocks on this side but you can still find agates and jasper if you pay attention while walking the...