Located at Oswald West State Park on the northern Oregon coast, the beautiful Short Sands Beach is a wondrous hidden gem. At this peaceful, secluded cove, you’ll find sea caves, tide pools, amazing rock formations, and the magical Blumenthal Falls.
This beautiful beach is part of Smugglers Cove, located just south of Cape Falcon. It’s most popular as a summer destination, but it’s stunning any time of year.
flickr/ Eli Duke
To get to the beach, park at the main Oswald West State Park parking lot. An easy half-mile walk will lead you through a beautiful old growth forest to the hidden cove’s entrance.
flickr/ Sam Beebe
The beach is absolutely breathtaking.
flickr/ Dan Germoose
There are tide pools, sea caves, amazing rock formations, great waves for surfing, and more.
flickr/ Dan Germoose
If you walk north along the beach towards Cape Falcon, you’ll come across the ethereal Blumenthal Falls. This lovely little waterfall cascades down a tiered rock wall onto the beach.
flickr/ Mark Schindler
The waterfall varies in volume throughout the year, and is weakest in the summer. Even as a trickle, however, it’s an absolutely majestic sight to stumble upon.
flickr/ Danny Lee
There are many gorgeous hiking trails nearby that wind through the old growth forest and pass stunning viewpoints. If you feel like extending your adventure, continue on to the amazing Cape Falcon Hike or check out the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain Hike.
flickr/ Eli Duke
This short video by Leave a Trail Photography shows the waterfall in August, cascading lightly down the intricate rock face towards the shore.
flickr/ Eli Duke
flickr/ Sam Beebe
flickr/ Dan Germoose
flickr/ Mark Schindler
flickr/ Danny Lee
Check out our ultimate guide to discover more amazing waterfalls in Oregon.
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