Edit (2024): this spot getting more and more crowded ever year. Some of the vehicles driving on the beach here are not careful, so PLEASE keep an eye out. Someone removed the sign warning not to drive between certain dates due to nesting birds. The park superintendent is aware of issue. Honestly, if you want to drive on the beach please consider heading to a less crowded spot. There are many of them with access south of here. As the the Iredale itself, winter storms the last four or five years have unburied quite a bit of ship, and at times in the last year you've been able to see the whole frame front to back (which is cool). This place can get very busy at sunset, particularly on weekends.
Edit (2023): part of the year you can long longer drive north past the road which leads down to the beach here, so that's helped with traffic on the beach and made it safer. One note, they're now enforcing the 6am-10pm times, so be aware of that when you're in the parking lot. It's patrolled on and off by both State Park rangers and local PD when it's closed (10pm-6am).
Edit: (2021/2022)This beach is becoming a lot more crowded at times than it used to be, and you're getting a lot of vehicle traffic on the beach now. Unfortunately they don't always pay attention to the people down below, and I'm more than one occasion I've seen big trucks almost run over beach goers. I've also seen the vehicles try to enter the beach from closed access areas. Overall it's still an awesome spot, but be aware of the potential above issue if you have young kids with you, since some of the vehicles don't pay attention to where they're driving.
(2016 - Original Review) This is a beautiful place on the Oregon coast. It's located in what's known as the graveyard of the Pacific, which is is fitting since the main attraction here is the Wreck of the Peter Iredale. There is also camping near by in other parts of Fort Stevens State Park. It's a hidden gem on the North...
Read moreOur visit to the Wreck of the Peter Iredale was truly a stroke of luck, as we were blessed with a beautiful day of warmer temperatures that enhanced our experience. The unique black sandy beach, which absorbed the sunlight and radiated warmth, added a special touch to our outing and made our time there even more enjoyable.
Our little one had a fantastic time exploring the beach, eagerly searching for sand dollars and shells along the shore. It was a joy to see their excitement and curiosity as they discovered treasures scattered across the sands.
For anyone in the area, I highly recommend taking the time to visit the Wreck of the Peter Iredale. It's a serene and picturesque spot that offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories with loved ones. Don't miss out on this hidden gem when you find yourself nearby – it's definitely...
Read moreOn our way to Redmond, Oregon, we took a detour to visit the Wreck of the Peter Iredale. Even at dusk with a light rain, the sight was truly epic.
The ship's rusted hull and twisted metal emerged from the mist, creating an eerie yet captivating scene. The combination of fading light and drizzle added to the mystique, making the wreck seem almost otherworldly.
Walking along the beach, we could feel the history of the 1906 shipwreck, a reminder of the many vessels that braved the treacherous Columbia River Bar. The rhythmic sound of crashing waves enhanced the serene beauty of the site.
For anyone traveling through Oregon, the Wreck of the Peter Iredale is a must-visit. Whether in the sun or, like us, in the moody embrace of twilight rain, it's an unforgettable...
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