The best cycling routes in South Beach State Park

South Beach State Park offers a diverse cycling experience. You'll find broad, sandy ocean beaches, lush greenery, and forests. A highlight for touring cyclists is the paved Jetty Trail, which provides a smooth surface along the coastline. Some multi-use trails may include unpaved or more challenging segments for those seeking more adventure.

Yes, the park has several easy routes. For instance, the South Beach State Park loop from Katama Airpark is an easy 5.5-mile ride. Another accessible option is the Norton Point Beach – Historic Edgartown loop from Edgartown, which is 8.6 miles and also rated easy. Overall, 14 out of the 16 available routes are considered easy.

While cycling, you can enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean, the iconic Yaquina Bay Bridge, and the South Jetty, accessible via the paved Jetty Trail. The park also features picturesque sand dunes and lush forests. Just seven miles south, the Beaver Creek Natural Area offers trails through freshwater marsh and forested uplands with clear-day views of the ocean.

For those looking for a longer ride, the Harts Harbor – Historic Edgartown loop from Edgartown is a moderate 22.5-mile route. In total, there are 2 moderate routes available for touring cyclists in the area.

Yes, South Beach State Park features a dedicated Hiker/Biker camp. This amenity is particularly valuable for those on longer cycling tours, offering shelters with facilities to securely store gear and food, charge electronics, refill water bottles, and perform minor bike repairs. It also includes a fire pit and rustic seating.

Beyond cycling, the area offers a wealth of attractions. You can visit the historic Yaquina Bay Lighthouse and Yaquina Head Lighthouse nearby. Educational marine life exhibits are available at the Hatfield Marine Science Center and the Oregon Coast Aquarium, both close to the park. Other activities include disc golf, equestrian trails, fishing, crabbing, boating, surfing, and beachcombing.

Yes, if you arrive without your own wheels, bike rentals are available at the Hospitality Center within the park during the summer months.

The touring cycling routes in South Beach State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 19 reviews. Over 280 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the coastal paths and diverse landscapes.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore the area. Examples include the Historic Edgartown – Washaqua Hill loop from Mattakesett Landing, an easy 16.3-mile path, and the Joseph Sylvia State Beach – Historic Edgartown loop from Edgartown, which is 11 miles long.

For official information regarding the park's facilities, regulations, and current conditions, you can visit the Oregon State Parks website: stateparks.oregon.gov.