Whaleshead Beach Tours

Brookings showing mist or fog and general coastal views
Whaleshead Beach which includes mist or fog and general coastal views
Brookings showing mist or fog and forests
Whaleshead Beach featuring general coastal views and mist or fog
Whaleshead Beach which includes mist or fog, general coastal views and rugged coastline


An iconic sea stack, hiking trails and local wildlife make this less-visited beach a shiny gem along the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.

It’s easy to see how Whaleshead Beach got its name. As you look out from the wide, sandy beach, notice the pyramidal sea stack. When the rock is hit with just the right wave, water sprays into the air, resembling a whale spout. While this sight alone is worth a visit, spend at least a couple of hours exploring this lengthy beach in southern Oregon. Check out the tidepools, the shallow creeks that cut across the sand, a windowed cave that perfectly frames a coastal view and a portion of the Oregon Coast Trail.

As you approach the beach along the coastal highway, stop to take a photo at the Whaleshead Trail Viewpoint parking area. Then, to access the beach, either drive to the shoreline or park and descend on foot on the steep trail through the forest down to the water. Be sure to hike Whaleshead Beach at low tide. When the tide is at its highest, waters can reach all the way to the bluff.

The beach and its surrounding area offer several hiking trails and opportunities to glimpse seabirds, seals, tidepool marine life, bald eagles, the coastal bobcat and, if you’re lucky, the giant Pacific salamander.

Hike the Oregon Coast Trail, which crosses the beach to the south to House Rock or to the north to Indian Sands. Look for wildflowers and forage for berries as you hike. During the winter and spring, keep watch for migrating gray whales as you wander.

After enjoying the scenic views, follow the scenic corridor north to the very tall Thomas Creek Bridge and Arch Rock, with scenic views. Continue on the highway to another stellar point along the Oregon coast, Gold Beach. Here you can beachcomb for hours, go biking along the coast or try crabbing or clamming.

Find Whaleshead Beach about 8 miles (13 kilometers) north of Brookings. The site is open daily year-round. No parking pass is required. Find accommodations at nearby RV parks, a resort, campsites or cabins.

Plan a trip to see Whaleshead Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay
Bay Point Landing
Beachfront Inn

Reviews of Whaleshead Beach

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
58
5 - Excellent 46%
4 - Good
59
4 - Good 47%
3 - Okay
9
3 - Okay 7%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

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Always a beautiful place to visit

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Best Lodging Options Near Whaleshead Beach

Private cabin close to trails with hot tub, grill, and dazzling ocean views
Private cabin close to trails with hot tub, grill, and dazzling ocean views
Brookings
Private cabin close to trails with hot tub, grill, and dazzling ocean views
Dog-friendly cabin w/private hot tub, large deck & beautiful ocean mountain view
Dog-friendly cabin w/private hot tub, large deck & beautiful ocean mountain view
Brookings
Dog-friendly cabin w/private hot tub, large deck & beautiful ocean mountain view
JAW-DROPPING VIEW,trails,family, free day,fireplace,private beach,gated & clean
JAW-DROPPING VIEW,trails,family, free day,fireplace,private beach,gated & clean
Brookings
JAW-DROPPING VIEW,trails,family, free day,fireplace,private beach,gated & clean
The Whale Watcher- 3rd story Condo with Ocean Views & Private Beach Access!
The Whale Watcher- 3rd story Condo with Ocean Views & Private Beach Access!
Brookings
The Whale Watcher- 3rd story Condo with Ocean Views & Private Beach Access!
AmeriCoast Inn
AmeriCoast Inn
2.5 out of 5
1215 Chetco Avenue, Brookings, OR
AmeriCoast Inn
Blue Coast Inn and Suites
Blue Coast Inn and Suites
2 out of 5
1216 Chetco Ave, Brookings, OR
Blue Coast Inn and Suites
Beachfront Inn
Beachfront Inn
2.5 out of 5
16008 Boat Basin Road, Brookings, OR
Beachfront Inn
Brookings Inn Resort
Brookings Inn Resort
2 out of 5
1143 Chetco Avenue, Brookings, OR
Brookings Inn Resort
Westward Inn
Westward Inn
2 out of 5
1026 Chetco Avenue, Brookings, OR
Westward Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.