The Magic of Holiday Lights Shines Bright at Shore Acres State Park
Every winter, the Oregon Coast comes alive with the glow of the Holiday Lights at Shore Acres State Park. Running nightly from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, this magical event transforms the park into a dazzling wonderland of color and light. From 4:30 to 9:00 p.m., visitors of all ages can stroll through the stunning seven-acre botanical garden, perched on the rugged cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With its twinkling lights and enchanting displays, this cherished tradition has become a holiday highlight for locals and travelers alike.
Since its humble beginnings in 1987, when the event featured just 6,000 lights and a single Christmas tree, the Holiday Lights celebration has blossomed into one of the most breathtaking attractions on the Oregon Coast. Today, it boasts over 325,000 LED holiday lights, 26 beautifully adorned Christmas trees, captivating animated sculptures, and stunning landscape lighting. This extraordinary display wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of over 1,500 volunteers, the Friends of Shore Acres, local businesses, state park staff, and unwavering community support. Together, they create a spectacle that draws thousands of visitors from across the globe, spreading holiday joy for more than three decades.
Whether it’s your first time visiting or a beloved family tradition, the Holiday Lights at Shore Acres promise an unforgettable experience filled with wonder and cheer.
A Tradition of Sparkle and Wonder
Over the years, the Holiday Lights at Shore Acres have become one of Oregon’s most dazzling winter attractions. What started as a simple display has evolved into a stunning spectacle featuring over 325,000 LED lights, mesmerizing sculptures, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees that captivate visitors from near and far.
- Over 325,000 LED lights illuminating the gardens.
- 26 beautifully decorated Christmas trees.
- Intricate lighted sculptures, including animated displays.
- Breathtaking landscape lighting showcasing the towering trees surrounding the gardens.
Thanks to the Friends of Shore Acres, over 1,500 dedicated volunteers, local businesses, state park staff, and community support, this event draws thousands of visitors each year, spreading holiday cheer one light at a time.
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Parking Made Easy: Time-Specific Reservations
To ensure a smooth experience, Shore Acres State Park requires time-specific parking passes. These passes are just $5 per vehicle (waived for annual park pass holders) and must be booked online in advance.
Important Details:
- Passes are per vehicle, not per person.
- Print your pass or take a screenshot to show at the gate.
- Valid annual park passes, Oregon Pacific Coast Passports, or special access passes waive the parking fee, but you must still reserve online.
Book Your Parking Pass Here
For questions, call the local State Parks office at (541) 888-3778.
Hop on Santa’s Shuttle
Skip the hassle of parking by taking the FREE shuttle service running from Charleston Marina every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, plus holiday nights. The shuttle runs from approximately 4:15 to 8:00 p.m., with return trips available until the park closes at 9:00 p.m.
While waiting for the shuttle, enjoy free hot cocoa, coffee, cider, and cookies, provided by the Charleston Fishing Families. Their cozy facility also offers fun crafts for kids to pass the time.
Cozy Up and Explore the Garden House
A visit to the Garden House is a must. Warm up with free cookies, apple cider, and coffee, and admire the house’s opulent holiday decorations. Don’t forget to spot Santa “soaking” in the bathtub—a quirky detail that delights visitors year after year.
Tips for a Magical Visit
To make the most of your time at Shore Acres:
- Visit on Weekdays: Mondays through Thursdays are less crowded, while Fridays through Sundays see more traffic.
- Rainy Nights are Beautiful: The lights reflect stunningly in the rain, and the crowds thin out.
- Arrive Early: Book an earlier time slot to explore the park in daylight and enjoy the transition to sparkling lights at dusk.
Explore More in Charleston, Coos Bay, and North Bend
- Charleston: Visit the Charleston Marine Life Center or stroll along Bastendorff Beach.
- Coos Bay: Admire the 30-foot lighted tree at the Coos Bay Visitor Center, explore the Coos History Museum, or enjoy local art at the Coos Art Museum.
- North Bend: Shop in the quaint downtown area, skate at the only ice rink on the Coast (open through Valentine’s Day), or visit the Oregon Dunes for thrilling ATV adventures.
Don’t Miss the Holiday Magic!
Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or discovering the magic of Shore Acres for the first time, the Holiday Lights promise an unforgettable experience. Reserve your parking pass now, hop on the free shuttle, and let the twinkling lights of Shore Acres make this holiday season one to remember!
Here’s how to find your way to Shore Acres State Park from several major Oregon cities. The park is located at 89814 Cape Arago Highway, Coos Bay, OR 97420:
- From Eugene (2 hours, 30 minutes): Take I-5 South to Exit 162 for OR-38 West toward Drain. Follow OR-38 through Reedsport to US-101 South. Continue on US-101 to Coos Bay, then follow signs for Cape Arago Highway to the park.
- From Portland (4 hours): Head south on I-5 to Exit 162 for OR-38 West. Continue through Drain and follow the same route as from Eugene.
- From Bend (4 hours, 30 minutes): Take US-97 South to OR-138 West toward Roseburg. From Roseburg, take I-5 South to Exit 162 for OR-38 West, and follow the route through Reedsport and Coos Bay to the park.
Be sure to allow extra time during busy holiday weekends and enjoy the scenic drive to this coastal gem!
