Written by Terrance Davis
Terrance writes for Lincoln City Vacation Rentals, highlighting the best events, sights, and attractions in and around Lincoln City, Oregon.
When you’re in Lincoln City, it’s hard to get enough of the shore. With over 7 miles of sandy beaches and grassy hilltops, this Pacific getaway is the perfect place to enjoy long walks on the beach and outdoor adventures. One of the best ways to combine those two things is by taking some time to go tide pooling! Lincoln City’s rocky shorelines create the perfect opportunity to explore still pockets of saltwater on the shore. If you want to take part in this unique shoreline search, follow along with this blog as we take you through what you need to know before you go tide pooling in Lincoln City.
Stay in touch with everything Lincoln City Vacation Rentals has to offer! Sign up for our newsletter!
In this Blog:
- What is Tide Pooling?
- The Best Tide Pooling Spots in Lincoln City
- When is the Best Time to Go Tide Pooling
- Marine Life You May Discover in Lincoln City Tide Pools
- Tide Pooling Etiquette
- Safety Tips for Exploring Tide Pools
- Make Tide Pooling a Part of Your Escape to Lincoln City
- Frequently Asked Questions about Tide Pooling in Lincoln City
What is Tide Pooling?
Great question! Tide pooling is the practice of searching the rockier parts of the beach for small pools of ocean water trapped between the rocks. When this happens, many small sea creatures, including sea stars, crabs, anemones, and snails, can be found in those pockets, essentially creating a temporary natural aquarium for you to explore. Tide pooling is enjoyed by photographers, families, and regular vacationers because it allows them to explore underwater wildlife without snorkeling or entering deep water.
The Best Tide Pooling Spots in Lincoln City
As stated before, Lincoln City features over 7 miles of coastline, so as you could imagine, there are quite a few amazing spots to start your search. Below are just several of the best locations around town to explore our coastal tide pools.
Roads End State Recreation Site
Roads End, which lies at the northern end of town, is known for its gorgeous tide pools, which host abundant underwater life. When you arrive at the park, all you need to do is take a short 1.25-mile walk towards the northern end of the beach. From there, you can search the rougher part of the shore to see the beach’s tide pools. One great thing about this beach site is that it is flat enough to give you a clear, unobstructed view of Cascade Head.
NW 15th Street Beach Access
Possibly the most accessible tide pools in Lincoln City, the NW 15th Street beach access is a straight shot from those very tide pools, making this an easy addition to your itinerary. This may be a great spot for first-timers, as the NW 15th Street access acts as the site of the Tide Pool Explorience, where you can join local experts to explore the pools.
When is the Best Time to Go Tide Pooling
Tide pooling is best enjoyed either right before or during low tide. Before you set out, we recommend checking a local tide chart to see what conditions are like out on the shore. Arrive roughly an hour before low tide so you can explore as much as you can before the water recedes. We’d also recommend looking for tides near zero feet or below for the best conditions to see wildlife, and be sure to leave the shore before the tide returns and covers your route back on land. While tide pooling is possible year-round, it’s best enjoyed on calmer, clearer days.
Marine Life You May Discover in Lincoln City Tide Pools
Lincoln City’s shores are no strangers to abundant and diverse forms of sea life that may decorate the tide pools you come across. Due to the size of the tide pools, much of the wildlife consists of smaller sea creatures; however, because they are inside the tide pools, they are easier to observe during your search if you look closely. Here are just some of the wildlife you may see during your tide pooling excursion in Lincoln City:
- Sea stars
- Sea anemones
- Sea urchins
- Hermit crabs
- Small fish
- Barnacles
Tide Pooling Etiquette
While tide pooling is a fun way to connect with nature, it is important that you do so in a manner that is safe to the creatures you observe. When tide pooling, avoid removing animals from the water or moving them, especially if they are wedged between rocks. Watch your step carefully to avoid stepping on living surfaces such as barnacles, mussels, and seaweed and avoid touching marine life found in the tide pools. Make sure you leave the spot as untouched as possible before you leave, as many of the species found in the pools are quite fragile.
Safety Tips for Exploring Tide Pools
Tide pooling is a great way to explore different underwater animal species; however, due to somewhat hazardous conditions and slippery wet rocks, it is important to keep a few things in mind to keep yourself safe while wading through the pools:
- Never turn your back on the ocean.
- Check both the tide chart and weather forecast before heading out.
- Wear shoes with strong traction.
- Move slowly across wet rocks and seaweed.
- Keep children close.
- Avoid climbing beneath unstable cliffs.
Make Tide Pooling a Part of Your Escape to Lincoln City
Featured Rental: Pampered by the Pacific
Whenever you’re ready to explore Lincoln City’s tide pools, they’ll be out there waiting for you. Before heading out to the shore, be sure you find yourself a rental home that will act as your home base during your getaway to the Pacific Coast. Here at Lincoln City Vacation Rentals, our wide portfolio of homes creates the perfect environment for your trip. Whether you’re looking to enjoy stunning views of Devil’s Lake or a home that puts you within walking distance of the beach, we’re sure to have the home for you. Explore all of our available properties today and save big when you book direct with Lincoln City Vacation Rentals!
Frequently Asked Questions about Tide Pooling in Lincoln City
Are Lincoln City’s tide pools free to visit?
Yes. Lincoln City’s public beaches and tide-pooling areas are free to explore. Parking is also available near popular locations such as the NW 15th Street beach access, although availability may vary during busy periods.
What should I bring when tide pooling?
Wear rubber boots or sturdy shoes with good traction, along with comfortable layers and a rain jacket. Gloves and sunscreen may also be helpful, depending on the weather. Consider bringing a waterproof phone case or camera so you can photograph your discoveries without risking water damage.
Can I take shells, rocks, or animals from a tide pool?
It is best to leave everything where you find it. Tide-pool animals and habitats are easily damaged, and some rocky shore areas in Oregon have special collection restrictions. Follow posted rules and take photographs, not souvenirs.
Can you harvest mussels near Lincoln City’s tide pools?
Mussel harvesting may be permitted with a valid Oregon shellfish license. Harvesters age 12 and older must carry a license, and everyone should check current regulations and marine biotoxin closures before collecting shellfish.
How long should I spend tide pooling?
Plan for about one to two hours. Arriving roughly an hour before low tide gives you time to explore as more rocks become exposed.
Is tide pooling suitable for young children?
Yes, tide pooling can be an exciting family activity, but children need close adult supervision. Wet rocks, waves, driftwood, and uneven surfaces can create hazards. Keep children close to you, stay facing the ocean, and choose an easily accessible location, like NW 15th Street, for a first outing.
What should I do if I find a stranded marine animal?
Do not touch, feed, move, or crowd the animal. Give it plenty of space, keep children and pets away, and contact the appropriate local wildlife authorities. Young seals may appear abandoned while their mothers are away, and nearby human activity can discourage a mother from returning.