Your Guide to Surfing near Gearhart, Oregon

Surfing in Oregon: Your Complete Guide to Oregon Coast Surfing Near Gearhart

Updated. May 13, 2025

Have you ever wanted to experience surfing in Oregon but aren’t sure where to begin? The Oregon coast surfing scene offers consistent beginner to moderate waves in a breathtaking destination. The beaches near Gearhart could be just the perfect introduction to Oregon coast surfing you’ve been looking for.

This small and charming town on the North Oregon coast serves as an ideal base for exploring Oregon’s surfing opportunities, especially for novice wave riders. The waves along this stretch of the Oregon coast are consistently easier to ride than in other areas, making it a great, non-judgmental place to learn. And, with several different beach breaks, Oregon coast surfing near Gearhart offers the perfect spot for your skill level and stance.

In this definitive guide to surfing in Oregon, we’ll let you know where to find the best Oregon coast surfing spots near Gearhart. We’ll also give you tips on the best time of year to visit, where to stay, and what essential gear to bring for Oregon coast surfing conditions. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer looking to explore Oregon’s coastline, read on to find out everything you need to know about surfing in Oregon with Gearhart as your home base!

Surfing in Oregon? The North Coast Is a Surfer’s Paradise (Even If You’re Just Starting Out)

If you’re new to the idea of Oregon surfing, let’s break the stereotype: it’s not all icy wind and angry seas. While the water’s definitely cooler than SoCal (you’ll want a 4/3mm wetsuit minimum), Oregon’s North Coast delivers consistent beach breaks, uncrowded lineups, and views that put postcards to shame.

And Gearhart is the kind of town where you can surf in the morning, grab a pint by noon, and still have time for a hike before sunset.

Why Base Yourself in Gearhart?

Imagine this: a fog-kissed beach, the low rumble of waves just waking up, and a horizon so wide it feels like it might swallow your stress whole. You’re not in Malibu or Maui. You’re in Gearhart, Oregon — and if you’re looking for an underrated, beginner-friendly surf town with big-wave potential just up the road, welcome home.

What makes the area around Gearhart special isn’t monster waves or tropical waters, but rather consistent, forgiving breaks perfect for learning and progression, all set against the backdrop of Oregon’s breathtaking coastal scenery.

Nestled between Seaside and Astoria, Gearhart is the Oregon Coast’s quietly cool surf basecamp. Unlike its buzzier neighbors, Gearhart skips the crowds, kitschy arcades, and traffic. Instead, it delivers:

A central location to reach top surf breaks like Indian Beach and Short Sands
Easy beach access with miles of sandbars
Lower surf crowds – especially midweek

The best time to surf near Gearhart

surfer in in wetsuits surfing in the pacific ocean along the Oregon coast — Image by Kanenori from Pixabay

Let’s keep it real: Oregon’s not a boardshort-and-tank-top surf destination. But when you catch it right, especially in summer, you get clean, forgiving waves with fewer people around than almost any California lineup I’ve been in.

Summer months (June to September) are best for beginners. You’ll find smaller, consistent waves and calmer water — a dream setup for learning. That said, if you’ve got experience and don’t mind braving chillier conditions, winter surfing in Oregon brings bigger, punchier surf that makes your heart pound in the best way.

Also worth noting: wind and tide make a difference. Early mornings or late evenings tend to be cleaner, and understanding local tide charts will seriously level up your surf sessions. (Trust me, you’ll remember the day you accidentally paddled out during a dumpy low tide.)

Are you planning a solo surfing trip to Oregon? Check out our guide on Gearhart for solo travelers to make the most out of your adventure!

Top Oregon Coast Surfing Spots near Gearhart (And When to Catch Them at Their Best)

Gearhart’s quiet charm hides the fact that you’re surrounded by some of the best surfable coastline in the Pacific Northwest. You’ve got beach breaks, reefy corners, and lush trail access — all within a short drive.

1. Short Sands Beach (Smuggler’s Cove)

A man carrying a surfboard in the ocean with green forests in the background on the Oregon coast

Distance from Gearhart: 20 miles south
Best for: Beginners to intermediates
Best conditions: Medium-low tide, northwest swell, east windNestled within Oswald West State Park’s lush coastal forest, “Shorties” offers a protected cove with consistent beach break waves. The quarter-mile trek through ancient Sitka spruce forest to reach the beach is part of the experience.

The waves here break more gently than at exposed beaches, making it ideal for beginners. The natural amphitheater setting also provides some wind protection. On summer weekends, it gets crowded by Oregon standards (though nothing like California beaches), but weekday mornings often reward you with near-solitude.

2. Indian Beach

Surfing at Indian Beach in Ecola State Park

Distance from Gearhart: 12 miles south
Best for: Intermediate surfers
Best conditions: Low to medium tide, northwest or west swell

Located in Ecola State Park, Indian Beach offers several different break points along its crescent-shaped shoreline. The north end typically provides longer right-handed waves that intermediate surfers will appreciate. January through March delivers the most consistent conditions here, with clean waves about 40-45% of the time.

What makes Indian Beach special is the dramatic scenery—towering Sitka spruce trees frame the cove, and offshore rock formations create a stunning backdrop as you paddle out.

Check the Ecola State Park website before heading out, as landslides occasionally close access roads after heavy rains.

3. Seaside Cove

Distance from Gearhart: 3 miles north
Best for: All skill levels, depending on conditions
Best conditions: Medium tide with northwest swell

The Cove is Gearhart’s closest legitimate surf spot and offers a point break that works year-round. The south end provides more shelter and gentler waves suitable for beginners, while the northern section delivers more challenging conditions for experienced surfers.

What we love about Seaside Cove is its versatility—on smaller days, it’s perfect for longboarding and learning, but when winter swells arrive, it transforms into a powerful break that challenges even veteran surfers.

Parking is limited, especially in summer. Arrive early (before 8 AM) to secure a spot and avoid the crowds.

4. Cannon Beach

People walking along Cannon Beach with haystack rock in the background on a misty day

Distance from Gearhart: 8 miles south
Best for: Beginners to intermediates
Best conditions: Medium tide, southwest swell, easterly winds

With iconic Haystack Rock as your backdrop, surfing at Cannon Beach offers perhaps the most picturesque experience on the Oregon coast. The beach break here provides both left and right-handed waves, rarely gets crowded with surfers (though beach-goers are another story in summer), and works best with southwest swells.

The wide sandy beach makes for easy entry and exit points—something beginners particularly appreciate. Wave conditions are most reliable during fall and winter, though summer can deliver fun, smaller waves perfect for longboarding.

Free parking is available at the Tolovana Wayside at the south end of Cannon Beach, which usually has spaces even when the main beach parking areas are full.

5. Del Rey Beach

Distance from Gearhart: 5 miles north
Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
Best conditions: Low to medium tide, northwest swell

This hidden gem just north of Gearhart is every local’s go-to spot when we want to avoid crowds. The less developed beach access means fewer casual beachgoers, and the consistent beach break waves range from mellow to challenging, depending on conditions.

Del Rey works best during fall and winter with northwest swells, producing waves that are typically a foot or two bigger than those at neighboring beaches. The relative isolation means you might have the break entirely to yourself on weekdays.

The access road can be rough after storms. A vehicle with decent clearance is recommended.

Learning to Surf in Oregon: Local Instruction Options

If you’re new to surfing or just new to Oregon’s unique conditions, taking a lesson can accelerate your progress significantly. Here are some instruction options near Gearhart:

Oregon Surf Adventures: Offering both group and private lessons, this Seaside-based outfit specializes in beginner instruction. Their instructors are patient and knowledgeable about local conditions. Group lessons run about $75-95 per person for a 2-hour session, while private instruction costs $120-150.

Cannon Beach Surf: This shop offers lessons year-round with professional instructors who emphasize ocean safety alongside surfing fundamentals. Their 2-hour lessons include all necessary equipment and typically cost $80-100 per person for group sessions.

Northwest Women’s Surf Camps: For women looking to learn in an all-female environment, these specialized clinics offer supportive, encouraging instruction. They run seasonal camps throughout the year, with prices ranging from $95 for half-day sessions to $395 for weekend camps.

Essential Gear for Oregon Coast Surfing:

Multiple colorful surfboards lined up at a surf rental shop in Ecola State Park — Image by Patsasha from Pixabay

Surfing in Oregon requires more preparation than tropical destinations. Here’s what you’ll need for a comfortable session:

Wetsuit: For summer, a 4/3mm full suit works well. Winter demands a 5/4mm or even 6/5/4mm with chest zip for maximum warmth.
Booties: 5mm year-round, 7mm in winter if your feet get cold easily.
Gloves: Not needed in summer, but 3-5mm in spring/fall and 5-7mm in winter.
Hood: Attached or separate 3-5mm hood in fall through spring. Optional but recommended in summer.
Surfboard: Beginners should opt for longer, wider boards (8’+ foam boards are perfect). Intermediates can go with fun shapes (7-8′) or fish designs (5’10”-6’4″).
Leash: Always use one slightly longer than your board.
Wax: Cold water formula is essential for Oregon’s chilly waters.

Here’s a quick reference table listing all your Oregon coast surfing essentials:

Category	Items
Surf Gear	Wetsuit (4/3mm or thicker) Booties and gloves Surfboard Leash WaxSurfboard bag
Beachwear	TowelWater-resistant sandals or flip-flops Warm hoodie/jacketSwimsuit or board shorts
Clothing	Thermal layers Rain jacket Hiking shoes or sneakers Beanie/hat Comfortable clothing
Miscellaneous	Waterproof backpack or dry bagSunscreen Sunglasses Reusable water bottle SnacksGoPro or waterproof camera

Where to stay when surfing near Gearhart

There are hotels and motels near the surfing spots. But, if you’re looking for something more spacious to keep your surfing board (if you bring one) and a well-equipped kitchen to make your dinner after a long session in the water, then staying at a vacation rental in Gearhart next to a beach may be a better option for you.

Come & Catch a Wave in Oregon

Surfing near Gearhart is a great choice if you are looking to catch some waves. The coastline is expansive, and the waves are typically pretty consistent. There are a few different spots to choose from, so be sure to do your research and check the surf forecast before heading out. If you’re visiting alone, you might also want to check out Gearhart for solo travelers for tips on making the most of your trip. You definitely don’t want to miss out on some great surfing.

Three people in wetsuits surfing in the pacific ocean along the Oregon coast

No matter where you surf near Gearhart, make sure to take advantage of the great waves Gearhart has to offer.

Happy surfing!

A few questions about Surfing near Gearhart

When is the best time to go surfing near Gearhart?

For beginners, the best time to surf near Gearhart is typically during the summer months when the waves are smaller and easier to manage. For experienced surfers, they may prefer to surf in the winter because the waves are stronger and bigger.

Is Gearhart a popular surfing spot?

Yes, Gearhart is a popular surfing spot. The town is located on the Oregon Coast, and there are many beaches nearby that offer incredible and consistent waves for surfing.

Should I bring my own surfing board or rent one?

If it’s your first time surfing, you may want to consider renting a board first. This way, you can make sure that you like the sport before you invest in getting the equipment. Otherwise, bringing your own surfing board is always a cost-saving option.

What surf conditions should I expect?

Gearhart’s surf can range from small and mellow waves to larger, more challenging swells. The beach is sandy, with beach break conditions, making it suitable for surfers of all levels.

Is surfing in Gearhart safe for beginners?

Yes, Gearhart is generally a safe place for beginners, as the beach break provides forgiving waves. However, always check local surf reports and conditions before heading out, and be cautious of strong currents and riptides.

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