Attractions and Places To See in Oswald West State Park - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see in Oswald West State Park, a coastal gem in Oregon, span four miles of coastline. The park features dense temperate rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and expansive ocean vistas. It is recognized for its natural beauty and historical significance in preserving public access to Oregon's beaches. The area offers diverse landscapes, from secluded beaches to mountain viewpoints.
Best attractions and places to see in Oswald West State Park
- The most popular attractions is Short Sand Beach, a beach that is a popular surfing destination. It is nestled in Smuggler's Cove and accessible via an easy trail through old-growth forest.
- Another must-see spot is Cape Falcon Trail, a trail leading through forest to the cape. This trail offers views of the ocean and cliffs.
- Visitors also love Neahkahnie Viewpoint, a viewpoint offering expansive views over the coastline. After a short hike, visitors are rewarded with views of Manzanita and the surrounding beach.
- Oswald West State Park is known for its beaches, trails, and viewpoints. The park offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including old-growth forests and dramatic coastal features.
- The attractions in Oswald West State Park are appreciated by the komoot community, with 10 upvotes and 8 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Short Sand Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
Cape Falcon Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Neahkahnie Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Devil's Cauldron Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
View of Manzanita Beach
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions in Oswald West State Park.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures in Oswald West State Park
Tips from the Community
Manzanita, one of three communities in Nehalem Bay, is located near the towns of Nehalem and Wheeler. The bay offers excellent fishing with great catches of Chinook salmon, sturgeon and steelhead trout, as well as crabbing and clamming at low tide. Manzanita is picturesque and originally captured the interest of Portland tourists for its turquoise surf, striking exposed cliffs, and dreamy, hazy horizons. Beach retreat homes and nautically named streets end in paths to the sea.
1
0
This viewpoint is only a short run from the parking area and absolutely worth it! From here, you can admire the waves crashing into the rocky cliffs below. To extend your run from here, carry on to Neahkahnie Viewpoint to the east or Short Sand Beach to the north (depending on where you began).
0
0
You can reach this viewpoint via South Neahkahnie Mountain Trail. After a short run, enjoy the beautiful view that this spot has to offer!
0
0
The starting point of Cape Falcon Trail is at the parking lot for Short Sand Beach. The first part of the trail leads through forest until you reach the beach. Once you are on the main trail along the cliffs, you will soon get nice views of the ocean below you.
0
0
Short Sand Beach is part of Oswald West State Park and nowadays a very popular surfing destination in Oregon. It can be accessed from Oregon Coast Highway, where you will find a parking lot, or from one of the trails leading to the beach: 'Elk Flats Trail' or 'Cape Falcon Trail'.
0
0
Devil's Cauldron Viewpoint is probably the viewpoint with the shortest hike to get there. But it's 100% worth it and once you reach the viewpoint you can see and hear the waves crashing against the rocky coastline.
0
0
After a short hike up the South Neahkahnie Mountain Trail, you will be rewarded with this view over the coastline. From here you can not only see Manzanita and its beach but hundreds of miles of pure beauty. There are two ways to reach the viewpoint: one from the south and one from the north, of which the northern route is a little longer and includes more altimeter.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Oswald West State Park?
Oswald West State Park is renowned for its diverse natural beauty. You can explore the secluded Short Sand Beach, nestled in Smuggler's Cove, which is popular for surfing and picnicking. The park also features dramatic cliffs and an old-growth temperate rainforest with massive western red cedar, western hemlock, and Sitka spruce trees. Don't miss the powerful waves crashing at Devil's Cauldron Viewpoint.
What are the best viewpoints in Oswald West State Park?
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Cape Falcon, which extends almost a mile into the ocean and offers vistas of the Pacific, Smuggler's Cove, and Neahkahnie Mountain. Another excellent spot is Neahkahnie Viewpoint, providing expansive views of the Oregon Coast, stretching for miles to the south as far as Cape Lookout and Manzanita Beach.
What is the historical significance of Oswald West State Park?
The park is named after Governor Oswald West, who was crucial in preserving public access to Oregon's beaches. The area also holds historical significance for the Tillamook and Clatsop people, who frequented Short Sand Beach. Legend also suggests it was a landing spot for smugglers. A memorial for Matt Kramer, a journalist who advocated for beach preservation, is located at the trail divide between Short Sands beach and Cape Falcon.
What do visitors enjoy most about Oswald West State Park?
Visitors particularly enjoy the park's stunning coastal scenery, the opportunity for surfing at Short Sand Beach, and the extensive network of hiking trails. The easy access to Devil's Cauldron Viewpoint and the rewarding views from Neahkahnie Viewpoint are also highly praised. The park's blend of forest and ocean environments makes it a unique experience.
When is the best time to visit Oswald West State Park?
Oswald West State Park can be enjoyed year-round, but the summer months are particularly popular for surfing at Short Sand Beach due to consistent waves. Spring and fall offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and excellent conditions for hiking and wildlife viewing, including whale migrations. Winter provides a dramatic coastal experience with powerful waves, though some trails might be muddy.
Are there family-friendly activities in Oswald West State Park?
Yes, Oswald West State Park offers several family-friendly options. The easy half-mile trail to Short Sand Beach is suitable for families, leading through an old-growth forest. The Devil's Cauldron Viewpoint also involves a short, easy walk. Picnicking areas are available, and the beach itself is great for kids to play and explore tide pools.
Are dogs allowed in Oswald West State Park?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in Oswald West State Park, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone.
What hiking opportunities are available in Oswald West State Park?
The park boasts over 15 miles of hiking trails, including a 13-mile stretch of the Oregon Coast Trail. Popular options include the 5.2-mile out-and-back Cape Falcon Trail, which offers stunning ocean views, and the trail to Neahkahnie Viewpoint. For more detailed routes and options, you can explore the Hiking in Oswald West State Park guide.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families with young children?
Absolutely. The trail to Short Sand Beach is an easy half-mile walk through the forest. The Devil's Cauldron Viewpoint is also accessible via a short, moderate trail. For more easy options, check out the Easy hikes in Oswald West State Park guide, which includes routes like the Devil's Cauldron Overlook Trail.
Can I go surfing in Oswald West State Park?
Yes, Short Sand Beach, affectionately known as 'Shorty's,' is one of Oregon's most popular surfing spots. It's particularly suitable for beginners during the summer months due to its consistent waves. Access to the beach is via an easy trail from the main parking lot.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the park?
Oswald West State Park offers opportunities for diverse wildlife viewing. You might spot various bird species, including pelagic birds near the coast. Marine life can be observed in tide pools, and whales are sometimes seen offshore during their migration seasons. The old-growth forest is also home to various forest creatures.
Where can I find food or accommodation near Oswald West State Park?
While there are no cafes, pubs, or accommodations directly within Oswald West State Park, you'll find options in nearby coastal towns. Manzanita, Arch Cape, and Cannon Beach are all within a short driving distance and offer a range of restaurants, cafes, and lodging choices to suit different preferences.
Most popular routes in Oswald West State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
