Storm watching is a winter occupation on the Oregon Coast. From November through March, the surf can reach heights up to 120 ft. That’s a huge wall of water!

Cape Perpetua

Caution as to where to watch these storms is advised. One does not want to be on the beach, up close and personal as there is real danger of being swept out to sea.

One of our favorite places to watch the waves is Shore Acres State Park. Much of this area is perched high up on 80 foot cliffs over-looking the ocean where the water can be viewed from a safe distance. Shore Acres is said to be the best storm watching place on this Pacific Northwest Coast. There is an actual storm watching hut there on the cliff.

There are three areas nearby Shore Acres that are safe places to watch also:The bluff overlooking Bastendorff Beach, Cape Arago State Park and Sunset Bay State Park. These are all close to Shore Acres. Any of them would do but, as stated, we would choose Shore Acres first. Make a day of it and also visit the beautiful botanical gardens during the day. During December, stay for the night time holiday light displays in the gardens.

On your way to storm watching at Shore Acres, stop in and say hello to us at Umpqua River Haven (www.umpquahaven.com). We always have the coffee ready and would enjoy sharing a cup with you.