Along the beautiful beaches of the Oregon Coast, there are endless things to do, from whale watching to razor clamming and rockhounding. Today, we will focus on rockhounding and Oregon agates, one of our beach’s most magical hidden gems. Stay with The Seashore Inn on the Beach in Seaside and easily access the agate beaches on the North Coast. Read on to learn more about how these rocks were formed, what to look for, and where to go!
Tips for Oregon Agate Hunting
Oregon agates were formed millions of years ago in volcanic rock cavities. Today, they can be found at gravel bars on beaches and coastal river beds. Here are a few things to know before you go out rockhounding:
- Agates come in a variety of colors and patterns and often have a milky exterior
- Hold the rock to the sun to check for translucency; agates should glow when held up to the light!
- Go agate hunting at beaches backed by cliff faces
- Look for agates in gravel.
- Head out to the beaches during winter and look for agates after a storm.
- Check the tide charts before heading to the beach.
- Abide by local rockhounding regulations and rules.
Where to Go Agate Hunting on the Oregon Coast
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is just a short 15-minute drive from Seaside and a great place to start your rockhounding adventures. We recommend checking out the areas near Hug Point after a storm!
Oceanside
The most popular spot for agate hunting on the North Oregon Coast is Oceanside, 57 miles from Seaside. We recommend checking out Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site and Tunnel Beach.
Cape Meares
Just down the road from Oceanside, Cape Meares offers another fantastic spot for agate hunting at Short Beach!
Nehalem River
Not all agates are found at the beach; head to Nehalem River and look for agates on the river beds.
Book Your Stay at Our Oregon Coast Hotel Today!
After looking for Oregon agates along the beach, return to The Seashore Inn on the Beach. Unwind in one of our Seaside hotel rooms overlooking the beach and take advantage of hotel amenities like our indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and dry sauna. Browse our specials and book your stay on the Oregon Coast today!