If you’re searching for a peaceful outdoor escape on the Oregon Coast, Oswald West State Park offers an unforgettable experience. Just minutes from Cannon Beach, this stunning park is known for its old-growth forest, dramatic cliffs, and iconic coastline views. Its accessible trails and pristine beaches make it a favorite for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy Oregon’s natural beauty.
One of the park’s highlights is Short Sand Beach, tucked away in a secluded cove surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you come to surf, picnic, or watch the waves roll in, this beach is a hidden gem worth discovering. With over 2,000 acres to explore, Oswald West State Park invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. Each year, millions of visitors flock to this famous Oregon State Park for its beautiful trails and vantage points on the Coast.
After a day of hiking and beach exploration, there’s nothing better than retreating to the comfort of a bed and breakfast on the Oregon Coast. At Arch Cape Inn, just a short drive from Oswald West State Park, you’ll find a welcoming and elegant escape. Our rooms are designed for relaxation, with luxurious bedding, cozy fireplaces, and thoughtful touches throughout. Check out our upcoming availability and book your lodging today!
The Best Things to Do at Oswald West State Park
Oswald West State Park is full of rewarding hikes and breathtaking scenery. Originally called Short Sand Beach, it was renamed in 1958 to honor former Governor Oswald West, whose vision preserved nearly 400 miles of Oregon coastline for public use. Once home to a walk-in campground, the park has been a day-use area only since 2009, preserving its natural beauty and rich history.
Here are the best things to do at Oswald West State Park:
- One of the most popular routes is the Cape Falcon Trail, a moderate hike that takes you through towering Sitka spruce trees and over scenic ridges. The trail ends at Cape Falcon, where you’ll find sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Neahkahnie Mountain. Along the way, you can spot wildflowers in spring and migrating whales offshore in the winter months.
- Rising 1,661 feet, Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain offers some of the best views on the Oregon Coast. You can stop at one of the roadside pullouts for a quick photo or take on one of the two hiking trails to the summit. The north trail is a 1.3-mile climb, while the south trail is a two-mile trek through towering old-growth forest.
- If you prefer to relax by the water, follow the easy half-mile trail that leads directly to Short Sand Beach. This sandy stretch is beloved by surfers and beachcombers alike. Spend a few hours here watching the surfers catch waves, enjoying a quiet picnic, or taking photographs of the rugged coastline. The combination of lush forest and rocky shoreline creates one of the most picturesque settings on the Oregon Coast.
- Just south of Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, you’ll find a dramatic overlook known as Devil’s Caldron, which offers a stunning view of powerful waves crashing against towering cliffs below. It’s a great stop for photos and a quiet moment to take in the rugged beauty of the coast.
- A 13-mile section of the Oregon Coast Trail runs through Oswald West State Park, starting at Arch Cape and continuing south to Manzanita. This stretch is ideal for long coastal hikes, offering a combination of forest, cliff, and beach scenery along the way.
Relax at our Bed and Breakfast on the Oregon Coast
Located between Cannon Beach and Manzanita, Oregon, Arch Cape Inn offers the perfect base for exploring the area. Whether you plan to hike the Cape Falcon Trail, spend time at Short Sand Beach, or discover more of Oswald West State Park, you’ll love coming home to the quiet charm of our inn. Our sandy stretch of beach, just a short walk from our B&B, is the perfect place to take in the sunset. It’s a less crowded alternative to Cannon Beach, known for Haystack Rock.
Every detail at Arch Cape Inn is designed with romance in mind. The quiet, adults-only setting ensures a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for couples looking to reconnect. Many of our guest rooms feature private balconies, spa-inspired baths, and ocean or forest views that set the tone for a memorable getaway. In the evening, relax with a glass of wine and a charcuterie tray, one of our most popular add-on packages.
Our personalized service adds to the intimate feel of your stay. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and thoughtful touches that make you feel cared for. Start your mornings with a freshly prepared gourmet breakfast, enjoy recommendations for scenic walks or hidden spots nearby, and return to your room to find it perfectly refreshed. At Arch Cape Inn, we make it easy for you to relax, slow down, and enjoy each other’s company in one of the most beautiful settings on the Oregon Coast. Book your lodging today!
