Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site

Cannon Beach, Oregon
Established 1971
21 acres

Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site offers a tranquil stretch of sandy coastline south of Cannon Beach, perfect for beachcombing, tidepool exploration, and picnicking. With scenic rock formations and sweeping ocean views, it’s a peaceful spot for families and nature lovers seeking a quieter alternative to busier beaches nearby.

Entrance Fee

Free

Visiting with Dogs

Dogs allowed; must be leashed or under voice control. Owners must clean up after pets and respect wildlife protections.

Visitor Tips & Reviews

What Visitors Say

Arcadia Beach offers peaceful walks, tide pools, and scenic rock formations, making it a favorite quiet spot for families and nature lovers on the Oregon Coast.

Tips from Visitors

  • Arrive early for best parking spots.
  • Watch for changing tides and sneaker waves.
  • Dogs allowed; keep on leash.
  • Pack out all trash and belongings.
  • Restrooms available near parking area.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for rocky areas.

Amenities

RestroomsParkingPicnic AreasBeach Access

Nearby Attractions

Explore these attractions near Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site:

  • Haystack Rock
    An iconic 235-foot sea stack teeming with marine life and birdwatching opportunities, located at Cannon Beach.
    3 miles away
  • Ecola State Park
    A scenic park offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline.
    5 miles away
  • Seaside Promenade
    A historic oceanfront walkway lined with shops, arcades, and beach access in the heart of Seaside.
    10 miles away

Things to Do at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site

BeachcombingTidepoolingPicnickingPhotographyWildlife Viewing

Camping at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site

No camping at Arcadia Beach; try nearby Nehalem Bay or Oswald West State Parks for overnight stays.

Hiking Trails

Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site offers a scenic coastal hiking experience with easy beach access and stunning views of sea stacks and tide pools. Trails are mostly flat and family-friendly, making it ideal for casual walks. Visitors often enjoy exploring the shoreline, watching for wildlife, and relaxing in a peaceful setting away from larger crowds found at nearby beaches.

Arcadia Beach to Hug Point Trail

Easy

A scenic beach walk from Arcadia Beach to Hug Point, featuring tide pools, sea caves, and seasonal waterfalls.

2 mi
1-1.5 hours
50 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Arcadia Beach South Trail

Easy

A relaxing stroll along the southern stretch of Arcadia Beach with stunning ocean views and interesting rock formations.

1.2 mi
45 minutes
30 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Arcadia Beach to Silver Point

Moderate

A beach hike north from Arcadia Beach to Silver Point, passing dramatic cliffs and excellent birdwatching spots.

1.8 mi
1 hour
70 ft gain
Moderate difficulty

Arcadia Beach Tidepool Exploration

Easy

Short walk to explore tide pools at low tide, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.

2,640 ft
30 minutes
15 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Directions

From Cannon Beach, drive south on US-101 for 2 miles. Look for the Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site sign on the right; parking is available just off the highway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there parking available at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site?

Yes, there is a small parking lot at the site. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early.

Are dogs allowed on the beach?

Yes, dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash or under direct control at all times. Please clean up after your pet.

Is there a restroom at Arcadia Beach?

Yes, there are basic restroom facilities available near the parking area. There are no showers or changing rooms.

Can I have a picnic at Arcadia Beach?

Yes, picnicking is allowed. There are a few picnic tables near the parking lot, and you can also bring your own blanket or chairs to the beach.

Is Arcadia Beach good for tide pooling?

Yes, Arcadia Beach is known for its tide pools, especially around the rocky areas at low tide. Always check tide schedules and be cautious on slippery rocks.

Are fires allowed on the beach?

Small, contained beach fires are allowed below the high tide line, but must be attended at all times and fully extinguished. Always check for seasonal fire restrictions.

Location
camping and backpacking gear

Don’t Forget the Essentials

Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.

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