Even after living and visiting Brookings for many years, we had somehow never actually seen Rainbow Rock up close.

That changed recently.

We’ve now made the walk from Harris Beach State Park to Rainbow Rock twice, both times taking advantage of low tide. And each visit has been different—a perfect example of how much the Oregon Coast can change.

The amount of sand along this stretch of beach makes a big difference. When more sand is present, it can actually make the walk easier by covering some of the rocky shoreline and creating a smoother path along the beach.

On our most recent visit, there was less sand than during our first visit, which gave us access to something we hadn’t been able to experience before: we could walk through the cave in Rainbow Rock.

That was the highlight of the trip.
Getting to Rainbow Rock

The easiest way to experience Rainbow Rock is to start at Harris Beach State Park and walk north along the beach during a suitable low tide.

Rainbow Rock is approximately 1.8 to 2 miles from the Harris Beach area, making the round trip roughly 3.5 to 4 miles, depending on where you start and how much exploring you do.

This isn’t a maintained hiking trail. You’ll be walking on sand, rocks and uneven shoreline, and conditions can change significantly depending on the tide and the amount of sand on the beach.

Check the tide tables before you go and make sure you have plenty of time to get back before the tide comes in.
How Rainbow Rock Got Its Colors

Rainbow Rock gets its name from the beautiful layers of red, brown, gray and other colors running through the formation.

The rock is made primarily of chert, part of the Dothan Formation. Some of that chert began as the remains of microscopic marine organisms called radiolarians that lived in an ancient ocean hundreds of millions of years ago.

Over immense periods of time, those deposits became rock. Later, tremendous tectonic forces folded and fractured the layers, creating the dramatic patterns we see today.

In other words, Rainbow Rock isn’t just a pretty sea stack.

It’s a piece of an ancient ocean and a record of the powerful geological forces that helped create the Oregon Coast.
Don’t Overlook Snail Rock

Right next to Rainbow Rock is another large, distinctive formation we’ve nicknamed “Snail Rock” because of its shape.

Snail Rock is made from the same type of rock as Rainbow Rock, with the same colorful, layered appearance. On our most recent visit, we also noticed birds nesting on Snail Rock.

It was a great reminder that these dramatic formations aren’t simply scenery—they provide habitat for coastal wildlife. If you see nesting birds, give them plenty of space and enjoy watching them from a distance.
What Happened to the Highway 101 Access?

Spring along the southern Oregon coast brings something extraordinary to life at Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge. I discovered this haven tucked along the banks of the Rogue River, where the world slows down and luxury meets the wild in the most unexpected ways.

My first glimpse of the property took my breath away.

The river sparkled under the spring sun, wildflowers dotted the landscape, and I knew immediately this place was different from any coastal retreat I’d experienced before.
What makes this lodge special goes far beyond its stunning location. From glass-walled cabins that blur the line between indoors and nature to farm-to-table meals that rival Portland’s finest restaurants, every detail speaks to thoughtful design and genuine care.

I spent three days here last spring, and I’m still thinking about the experience months later.

Americans often say they want to unplug on vacation. However, that is easier said than done. Taking a break from screen time, called a digital detox, is an intentional and disciplined act. It is all too easy for scrolling to follow us to the shoreline. So, instead of relying on self-discipline to keep that phone on do not disturb, hit a beach where you cannot connect to the internet

National Geographic named a lesser-known Oregon state park among its list of state parks that deliver "awe without the crowds."

The travel magazine said that Harris Beach State Park on the southern Oregon Coast can be just as unforgettable as Olympic National Park, noting visitors hoping to experience the Washington state park's famous views and landscapes could find ones as comparable in Oregon.

Here's what to know about Harris Beach State Park and why National Geographic says it's underrated.

Cruising down an open Western highway with the top down may feel like the quintessential American road trip. But if you’ve ever done it in the summer, you know there’s a downside: The hot sun can be unbearable, particularly if you’re stuck in high-season traffic.

But as fall sets in, bringing crisp temperatures and far fewer tourists on the roads, you might want to go ahead and rent that convertible you may have been dreaming about, lower the top and take in the cool air, autumn scents, and stunning reds, golds and oranges of fall.

Gold Beach, Oregon, is close to a whole lot of incredible scenery and just about nothing else. A little under six hours from Portland and just over seven from San Francisco, the town’s remote location means that during peak tourist season, you can get a parking spot in places so pretty they’ll make a grown man weep.

After passing through Gold Beach several times on road trips, I recently went for the first time as a dedicated visit. The natural beauty surrounding the town was the highlight of the trip, especially the famous and photogenic Samuel Boardman Corridor. A great bonus was the friendliness of the people I met. It may be a hard place to get to, but it’s harder to leave. Here are the best things to do in Gold Beach.

Oregon is well known for its quiet, artsy mountain towns, but tucked away on its rugged south coast is Port Orford, an eclectic fishing village just waiting to be explored — especially by those who prefer to avoid more touristy destinations.

Known as the oldest town on the Oregon coast, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, artsy charm, and smalltown vibes. Visitors will also find fewer crowds in Port Orford than in nearby popular hotspots like Cannon Beach or Newport, so it's the perfect escape for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Port Orford is the oldest town on the Oregon Coast. It is a working fishing port with a vibrant art community. It has a terrific small town vibe accented by awe inspiring scenic views.
If you visit the area, you won’t want to miss out on a chance to explore its many hiking and walking trails. Here are a few to check out.

It’s no secret that California’s North Coast has some of the prettiest landscapes in the state. From the greenery-covered walls of Fern Canyon to the drive-through trees of Humboldt County, there’s plenty to make it worth a lengthy drive from San Francisco. 

But if you’re going to travel that far, you might as well keep going just a bit farther past the Oregon border to one of the prettiest parks on the West Coast: the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Even if you’ve never been there, you may have already seen it. The park’s striking views and contrast between forest and ocean have caught the attention of Apple, which showcased Samuel H. Boardman landscapes in not one but two of its latest screen savers.

If you’re thinking about camping on the Oregon Coast, you’re in for a treat. The coastline offers plenty of spots where you can set up camp right by the beach and enjoy fresh ocean air, stunning views, and the sounds of the waves.

The best beach campgrounds along the Oregon Coast let you experience the outdoors while staying close to nature and the water. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or just want a peaceful getaway, there are options to suit different styles and preferences.