🌤 Weather at Sunset Beach State Recreation Site by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 39–64 °F | 49–71 °F | 40–70 °F | 37–51 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Fort Clatsop Natl Mem, 4 mi away, elevation 42 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Wide sandy beach near Warrenton — views of the Columbia River Bar, “Graveyard of the Pacific,” where over 2,000 vessels have sunk since 1792.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Clatsop County, Oregon |
| Entry Fee | Free (Oregon Coast) / Day-Use Permit |
About Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach State Recreation Site offers access to one of the widest, most open beaches on the northern Oregon coast. Located between Warrenton and Gearhart near the mouth of the Columbia River, the beach stretches for miles in both directions. The flat, hard-packed sand is popular for driving (with a permit) and horseback riding — one of the few Oregon beaches where vehicles are allowed.
Sunset Beach State Recreation Site in Clatsop County near Seaside provides access to a wide, flat beach — perfect for kite flying, beach driving (in permitted areas), and sunset watching. The north Oregon coast is famous for its long sandy beaches, dramatic weather, and spectacular sunsets over the Pacific.
Things to Do
Beach driving, horseback riding, kite flying, and razor clam digging (in season, with license) are popular activities. The beach is a popular launch point for beach bonfires. The nearby Wreck of the Peter Iredale — a 1906 shipwreck whose rusted hull still protrudes from the sand — is one of Oregon’s most photographed landmarks at Fort Stevens State Park just to the north.
Watching Pacific sunsets (spectacular!), kite flying, beach walking, surfing, clamming (razor clams — seasonal), and enjoying the wide north Oregon coast beach.
Getting There
Located off Highway 101 between Warrenton and Gearhart in Clatsop County. Free beach access. For vehicle access, obtain a beach driving permit from the county.
Insider Tips
Wide-open sands: Sunset Beach near Warrenton offers one of the widest, flattest beaches on the northern Oregon coast. Pro tip: The Peter Iredale shipwreck (nearby Fort Stevens) is one of the most photogenic shipwrecks in the US — the iron skeleton frames against sunset. Kite flying: The consistent winds make this stretch ideal for kite flying and windsports.
Best Time to Visit
Sunset (year-round): The name says it all — unobstructed Pacific sunsets. Summer: Best weather. Fall: Kite season and fewer crowds. Winter: Storm watching and wreck photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the Peter Iredale?
The four-masted British bark ran aground at the mouth of the Columbia River in 1906. The crew survived, but the ship could not be freed. Its rusting iron skeleton remains on the beach — one of the most accessible shipwrecks in the world and a Fort Stevens State Park icon.
Wildlife & Nature
Sunset Beach provides access to the wide sandy beaches of Oregon’s north coast — part of the extraordinary public beach system secured by the 1967 Beach Bill. The north coast receives the heaviest wave action during winter storms — 30-foot+ waves are common, and “sneaker waves” (unexpectedly large waves that surge far up the beach) pose genuine danger. Despite the hazards, winter storm watching has become a major tourism draw. The beach supports razor clam populations — these fast-digging bivalves can burrow a foot per minute and are prized by recreational diggers. Snowy plovers nest on undeveloped sections. Bald eagles patrol the shoreline. After storms, beachcombers find Japanese glass fishing floats — prized collectibles that have drifted across the Pacific on ocean currents.
Nearby Attractions
Seaside — Oregon’s oldest coastal resort — has a 1.5-mile promenade, arcades, and the Seaside Aquarium (one of the oldest on the West Coast, opened 1937). Gearhart offers a quiet beach atmosphere and the historic Gearhart Golf Links (1892). Fort Stevens State Park features the rusting wreck of the Peter Iredale shipwreck (1906). Lewis and Clark National Historical Park includes Fort Clatsop — the expedition’s 1805-06 winter quarters. Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock are south.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Del Rey Beach State Recreation Site (a short drive away) or Fort Stevens State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Sunset Beach State Recreation Site
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required in developed park areas
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are allowed on most ocean beaches under direct control; western snowy plover nesting areas restrict pets March 15 - Sept. 15; leash required on the beach at some parks (e.g. Cape Lookout)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly yurts and cabins at many parks (South Beach has 14 pet-friendly yurts, Tugman 8); maximum two dogs and/or cats; $10 per night pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 per night for pet-friendly yurts/cabins; no pet fee for day use or campsites
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at Dabney SRA, the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls, and Shore Acres; off-leash areas at Stub Stewart, Willamette Mission, Elijah Bristow, Cottonwood Canyon and LaPine
Are dogs allowed at Sunset Beach State Recreation Site?
Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.oregon.gov. More: Oregon state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Sunset Beach State Recreation Site
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Astoria
from $250
from $475
from $85