Four Oregon Beaches Just Ranked Among the Best Hidden Gems in America
Four Oregon beaches were rooted out in a recent countrywide survey of top US off-the-radar beaches. The top three are found in Hawaii, followed by Secret Beach on the southern Oregon coast.
4 Oregon Beaches Voted Best Hidden Gems In the US
The survey of 3,002 locals by Canadian-based travel blog Frugal Flyer to uncover the best-hidden beaches across the US included these four Oregon beaches in their top off-the-radar beaches:
- #4: Secret Beach
- #16: Gold Beach
- #50: Bandon State Natural Area
- #92: Agate Beach
The survey infographic included beaches that feel like well-kept secrets, where parking is easy, cell service is optional, and the views are magnificent.
From driftwood-strewn shores in the Pacific Northwest to sugar-white sands hidden behind Gulf Coast dunes, the Frugal Flyer survey rated the top secret gems. The top 4 off-the-radar beaches were as follows:
#1 Awahua Beach, Hawaii, located at the base of Moloka’i’s Kalaupapa Peninsula, features a small, black-sand shore framed by cliffs that rise almost 2,000 feet. Situated in a National Historical Park once used as a leprosy settlement, the beach can only be accessed by a challenging hike, a small plane, or a mule ride.
#2 Pa’ako Cove, Hawaii, is tucked behind a lava rock wall in Makena, Maui, Paʻako Cove. Known as “Secret Cove” to locals, the beach is a tiny stretch of sand with striking black rock formations rising from crystal-clear waters. Being secret, Secret Cove has no signage to help find the way.
#3 Gray’s Beach, Hawaii, near Waikiki’s edge behind the Halekulani Hotel, has a small shore with views of Diamond Head and offers a quieter alternative to Waikiki’s busy sands. The reef-sheltered waters create a calm, shallow area, making it suitable for tranquil swims.
#4 Secret Beach, Oregon, found approximately midway between Gold Beach and Brookings within Oregon’s Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, also lacks official signage. A short, steep trail leads to this mossy forest cove surrounded by towering sea cliffs. In the early morning, when the beach is often deserted, low tide briefly reveals caves and natural arches, making it a photographer’s haven.