There’s a reason zen sand gardens are ubiquitous in offices—combing though sand is inherently relaxing. And as a coastal state, Oregon’s beautiful beaches are the ultimate zen sand garden. Beachcombing in Oregon is absolutely delightful; sifting through The Beaver State’s sandy shores is sure to soothe any stress away. It’s also incredibly satisfying, as Oregon’s shores are a goldmine of sand dollars, razor clams, and seashells. There’s one beach in particular that’s perhaps the best place to find seashells. At this hidden beach along the Oregon coast, you’ll find more seashells and sand dollars than anywhere else on the coastline. Read on for where you can find this magical place:
With 363 miles of rugged coastline, Oregon is a beautiful beach state.
Eric Gropp/Flickr The Oregon Coast is divided into three regions—the North Coast, Central Coast, and South Coast—and you’ll find three distinct landforms along its shoreline: sea cliffs, beaches, and stacks.
Located in the North Coast, Seaside is a charming coastal town known for its scenic shores—and incredible beachcombing.
SKimchee/Flickr
With one of the most expansive sandy beaches on the Oregon Coast, Seaside is the perfect spot to go looking for treasures—everything from shells and sand dollars to razor clams and comb jellies.
lovette<3/Flickr
Beachcombers come from all over to hunt for seashells along the North Oregon coast near Seaside.
Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife/Flickr
But there’s one particular place in the area that is a veritable goldmine for seashells; in particular, sand dollars.
daynarnold/Flickr
Located on the northwest coast of Oregon, the Necanicum River is approximately 21 miles long, and forms an estuary at the Columbia River, eventually reaching the Pacific Ocean at Seaside.
Martin Kraft /Wikipedia
The Necanicum River is a favorite stomping ground for Oregon wildlife; a hidden beach with an abundance of natural treasures.
Sam Beebe/Flickr
In fact, at the mouth of the Necanicum River is where you’ll find more whole, unbroken sand dollars than anywhere else on the Oregon Coast.
matthew mclalin/Flickr There’s also an abundance of razor clams here, too.
This treasure trove of seashells is related to the amount of nutrients in the surrounding waters.
USFWS-Pacific Region/Flickr
The nutrients feed the phytoplankton in the area, causing their population to boom, and creating an all-you-can-eat buffet for sand dollars and razor clams.
Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife/Flickr
Of course, this abundance of tasty treats also attracts birds and other animals looking for some fresh-caught grub!
Eli Duke/Flickr
Beachcombing is all about keeping your eyes on the sand, but don’t forget to look up every so often, too—the Necanicum River is absolutely glorious, and Oregon’s coastal sunsets are not to be missed.
Curtis Poe/Flickr
Did you know about this hidden beach in Oregon and its treasure trove of sand dollars? Where is your favorite place to go beachcombing in Oregon? Share it with us in the comments below!
Eric Gropp/Flickr
The Oregon Coast is divided into three regions—the North Coast, Central Coast, and South Coast—and you’ll find three distinct landforms along its shoreline: sea cliffs, beaches, and stacks.
SKimchee/Flickr
lovette<3/Flickr
Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife/Flickr
daynarnold/Flickr
Martin Kraft /Wikipedia
Sam Beebe/Flickr
matthew mclalin/Flickr
There’s also an abundance of razor clams here, too.
USFWS-Pacific Region/Flickr
Eli Duke/Flickr
Curtis Poe/Flickr
And if you’re feeling major beach vibes now, you can visit several of the Oregon’s best beaches on this epic road trip.
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Address: Necanicum River, Oregon 97138, USA