There’s something deeply compelling about a beach you have to earn. And on the Oregon Coast, few places capture that feeling quite like Tunnel Beach.
Though it’s no longer a total secret, Tunnel Beach still feels like one. Reaching it requires stepping away from the open shoreline, ducking into a dark passage carved straight through a rocky headland, and trusting that the light you see ahead really does lead somewhere spectacular. Spoiler: it does.
When you emerge from the tunnel and step onto the sand, there’s a brief moment where everything goes quiet — the kind of pause that makes you feel like you’ve just entered a hidden world. If it gives you strong Goonies vibes, you’re not alone.
Getting There
Tunnel Beach is located in the small coastal town of Oceanside, just south of Cape Meares and west of Tillamook. From Portland, it’s an easy day trip at about an hour and a half by car.
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Park at Oceanside Beach State Park, where you’ll find a large parking area and restrooms. The lot usually has space, though during summer weekends you may need to find street parking nearby.
From the parking area, walk north along Oceanside Beach. The entrance to the tunnel is impossible to miss — a wide opening cut directly into the cliff face. A nearby sign warns of falling rocks, and while the tunnel is generally safe, it’s always smart to be cautious after heavy storms.
A Tunnel With a Story
The tunnel itself is about 90 feet long and was built in 1926 by the Rosenberg family, founders of the town of Oceanside. At the time, the cliffs of Maxwell Point made the northern beaches completely inaccessible. The tunnel was carved to give resort guests access to more coastline — and it ended up creating one of Oregon’s most memorable beach experiences.
The first section of the tunnel is reinforced with concrete before giving way to exposed basalt rock. Standing inside, you can feel the scale of Maxwell Point towering more than 160 feet above you.
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Tunnel Beach has had its dramatic moments. In 1979, a landslide blocked the tunnel entirely. It remained sealed off for nearly 20 years until powerful storms in 1999 naturally cleared the debris and reopened the passage. Because of its isolation, you’ll sometimes hear it called Isolation Beach — a name that feels fitting the moment you step through.
What To Do at Tunnel Beach
Search for Agates
Agate hunting is practically a rite of passage on the Oregon Coast, and Tunnel Beach is a fantastic place to try your luck. While agates can be found year-round, winter and early spring low tides offer the best conditions, when storms churn up the sand and expose new stones. Sea glass often turns up here as well.
Watch Wildlife Offshore
Looking out to sea, you’ll see Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge, one of Oregon’s most important seabird habitats. It’s home to the state’s largest breeding colonies of tufted puffins and common murres. Steller sea lions and their pups are frequently spotted lounging on the rocks. You can see plenty with the naked eye, but binoculars make the experience even better.
Explore Tide Pools
At low tide, both Tunnel Beach and nearby Short Beach offer excellent tide pooling. Expect to find sea stars, anemones, mussels, and barnacles tucked into rocky pockets. Always keep an eye on the ocean — sneaker waves are real, and conditions can change quickly.
Take the Photo (Yes, Really)
Tunnel Beach is one of those rare places where the photos truly live up to the hype. Whether it’s the glowing light at the end of the tunnel, the cliffs rising behind you, or the view of the offshore rocks, it’s worth stopping to capture the moment.
Nearby Places to Explore
If you have time, Tunnel Beach pairs perfectly with several nearby stops.
Lost Boy Beach lies just north and can be reached through another narrow tunnel at very low tide. Timing is critical here — only attempt the crossing during extremely low tides.
Short Beach, accessed from Cape Meares Loop, offers a quieter experience with rocky shoreline, driftwood, and a small waterfall known as Larson Creek Falls. Parking is limited, but the reward is a peaceful, uncrowded stretch of coast.
For something different, Netarts Bay is just a short drive away and is one of the best places on the coast for clamming, crabbing, and fishing. Oregon residents can pick up a shellfish license for a small fee.
Know Before You Go
Wear sturdy shoes — the tunnel floor is often wet, and rocks can be slick. Standing water inside the tunnel can reach ankle depth, especially during high tides or after rain.
Bring a flashlight or use your phone’s light. It gets very dark inside, and the beam also reveals years of artwork and graffiti etched into the walls.
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Most importantly, check the tide tables before you go. Many local shops in Oceanside and Tillamook provide free tide charts, and having one on hand can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Tunnel Beach isn’t just another stop on the Oregon Coast — it’s an experience. From the history carved into the rock to the dramatic moment you step out of the tunnel and onto the sand, it feels like discovering a place that still holds a little mystery.
Plan your visit carefully, time the tides right, and you’ll understand why this hidden stretch of coast continues to leave such a lasting impression on those who make the walk through the tunnel.
In conclusion, a visit to the picturesque Tunnel Beach in Oregon promises an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring views, natural beauty, and the chance to explore hidden coves and tide pools. As you plan your adventure, be sure to consult our Oregon Coast Tide Tables to ensure optimal timing for your visit. By doing so, you'll be well-prepared to fully appreciate the wonders of Tunnel Beach and make lasting memories along the majestic Oregon coastline.
