Where to go Bird watching near Brookings, Oregon

To go bird watching near Brookings - Harbor, most travel north along US Route 101 to the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor to see marine birds. Common and rare birds, such as the slaty-backed gull, can be found along the coast. Yet don't miss the other opportunities along the Chetco River or in the Oregon redwoods.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The stunning Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a 12-mile stretch along the coast, of forested park with its spectacular coastline, rocky outcroppings, and smooth, sandy beaches. Starting with Arch Rock to the north, there are several spots for birders to look out for shore birds. These breathtaking views are easily accessed from US Highway 101. Harris Beach State Park is just north of Brookings.

The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor starts just north of Brookings Harbor and continues to about half way to Gold Beach. For more information, download a brochure of the park.

Arch Rock

Arch Rock is a natural bridge located just off shore in the blue Pacific ocean. A convenient parking lot just off Route 101 offers ample parking and a short paved walk is just the place to try out that digital camera.

Arch Rock is the near the northern end of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor and is also the northern end of a long stretch of the Oregon Coast Trail that rarely touches US Route 101. This portion of the trail offers stunning views and is well worth hiking. This unbroken portion of the trail continues south to House Rock and is excellent for day hiking.

Arch Rock is located about midway between Brookings and Gold Beach, on the Oregon coast.


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Lone Ranch Beach

Lone Ranch Beach is located 4 miles north of Brookings. Lone Ranch is one of the best places along the Pacific Coast to visit the tide pools at low tide. The rocky beach traps pools of salt water making it perfect for beginners to explore the mystery of marine life. Cape Ferrelo is immediately north of the parking area. At low tide, it is possible to walk around the base of the Cape, but be careful ... more

Harris Beach State Park

Walk the sandy beaches. Marvel at the eroded sea stacks. View the birds on Bird Island (Goat Island), the National Wildlife Sanctuary and the largest island off the Oregon coast. Enjoy the Harbor seals, the California sea lions and the rich marine gardens just waiting for your tide pooling activities. Watch the migrating gray whales during their winter and spring migrations ... more

Chetco Point - Brookings, Oregon

This small coastal point in Brookings is an excellent bird watching venue. View the ocean going Black Oystercatcher, Pelagic, Brant’s and Double-crested Cormorant, Common Murre, and Western Gull.

From Highway 101, turn west on Wharf Street. Less than a mile to a parking lot and a trail out to the point. Birding is excellent from there.


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