Things to do in Gold Beach, OR
Looking for amazing nightlife, trendy restaurants, and exclusive boutiques? Then keep driving down the road. Because the things to do in Gold Beach, OR are aligned with nature, the trails, and the ocean. This is the place to go to get right with your soul and breathe in some true relaxation.
So, whether you’re a hiker, a surfer, or a history buff, you’ll find plenty to while away the hours in Gold Beach!
Beaches
Is fun in the sand and surf at the top of things to do in Gold Beach for you? Then you’ll be richly rewarded here! Because the area boasts a number of beaches to soak up the sun and catch some waves! And really, how could the beach not be on your list of things to do in Gold Beach?!
Nesika Beach
Located just north of Gold Beach, Nesika Beach is a whopping 10 miles long. However, since the parking lots are conveniently located near the beach, you can be in the sand in just moments.
Bailey Beach
Bailey Beach is also located north of Gold Beach, but much shorter at just 3 miles long. Though it makes up for that by being vehicle accessible. That’s right, you can drive your car right onto Bailey Beach!
South Beach
Now, this beach is west of Gold Beach. And at 7 miles long, it’s perfect for either an afternoon in the sun or a great hike. Also, it spans the difference between the Rogue River and Cape Sebastian.
Hiking Trails
If hiking is one of your top things to in Gold Beach, this area is your nirvana! And with trails spanning beginner to advanced, there’s a trail for every fitness level. So, lace up your boots and let’s take a look at some of the most popular trails.
Samuel H. Boardman State Park
Many people claim that this park offers some of the most stunning scenery in all of the Oregon coast! However, that can lead to crowds, but this is still a destination absolutely worth visiting! Particularly since most of the trails are very short, it’s entirely possible to do multiple trails in one visit. Actually, start off with the Lone Ranch Trail, at the southern tip.
Otter Point State Recreation Area
At 121 miles, Otter Point is considered a small park! While it’s main attraction is the magnificent carved sandstone point, there’s plenty more to see and do. Such as beautiful beaches, amazing wildlife, and miles of trails. Though occasionally foggy, visitors can still expect miles-long views on clear days. With several different trails, there will be something suitable for everyone in your party.
Cape Sebastian Trail
At 200 feet above sea level, visitors can expect awe-inspiring views along this much-loved trail. While the “signature” trail here is, indeed, the Cape Sebastian Trail, it is by no means the only one. That’s because this 1.3 mile trail is part of the Oregon Coast trail. Indeed, if adventurers are looking for something more strenuous, there’s plenty to choose from! In fact, a long hike on the beach is accessible from Hunter’s Cove.
Humbug Mountain State Park
How can anyone resist such an iconic name? And at 1765 feet above sea level, this area is less than 30 minutes from Gold Beach. While is 5.5 mile hike is moderate-to-strenuous, the views at the top make it worth the climb. And along the way, you’ll enjoy the verdant-green plant life, as well as the call of shore birds.
Random Fun Things to do in Gold Beach
Fat Biking
If you’d rather get your daily exercise in on wheels instead of walking or hiking, try out fat biking! As the name implies, the fat tires on these bicycles make traversing the beach easier and more fun. With fat biking a popular pastime in Gold Beach, you’ll find plenty of great loops for enjoying this fun activity!
Rogue River Whitewater Rafting
While not for the faint of heart, this exciting journey is certainly exhilarating! Actually, the Rogue River offers rafting opportunities for all skill levels, though you can choose the the Class IV Nugget Falls for a serious adrenalin rush! Also, wildlife abounds here, so be on the lookout for osprey, beaver, otters, and sometimes even black bears.
Jet Boat Tours
If you’d rather enjoy a different type of adventure on the river, consider a jet boat tour. While this may not offer the heart-pumping excitement of whitewater rafting, there’s plenty to love about a jet boat. Particularly since these tours offer a great combination of whitewater excitement, nature-based tourism, and family-fun entertainment. And you can choose the perfect tour for your group – 64, 80, or 104 mile round trips.
Kissing Rock
The name alone makes this interesting! Kissing Rock is a massive rock formation on the southern coastline. Best of all, it’s easy to spot from Hwy. 101, which allows for great impromptu visits. And be sure to take a selfie!
Mary D. Hume Shipwreck
Prior to sinking in 1978, the Mary D. Hume served as a shipping vessel for nearly 100 years. It’s storied past includes routes between the Rogue River and San Francisco. Later, it became an arctic whaling vessel and then a tugboat in Puget Sound. Unfortunately, it met its fate after its retirement when there were problems getting it out of the water.
Take a Picture with a Dinosaur at Prehistoric Gardens
For natural history fans big and small, no trip to the area is complete without a stop at Prehistoric Gardens. While nestled in a dense rainforest next to the ocean, visitors will find 23 dinosaur statues amongst the foliage. The Prehistoric Gardens has been a popular roadside attraction since it’s opening in 1955. While time has certainly marched on, visitors will find that everything here has remained virtually the same. And it’s easy to tour with wheelchair-accessible gravel pathways throughout. Don’t forget to snap a few selfies with your best new dino friends! Plus, there’s plenty of fascinating information about each species beneath its statue.
As you can see, there are nearly endless options of things to do in Gold Beach. We hope you enjoy each and every one! Then let us help you find your ideal location in this beautiful spot on the Oregon Coast.
