The Best of the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
View of the Sea Stacks from Secret Beach
When we think of the Oregon coast, often places like Cannon Beach or Seaside come to mind. Another coastal area that has been gaining in popularity due to social media is a 12 mile, highly forested section of coastline called the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor. Situated along scenic Highway 101 near Brookings, Oregon, the scenic corridor is only 10 miles north of the Oregon/California border. There are over 27 miles of trails to discover in the area, and here are our favorite places along the scenic corridor.
Whaleshead Beach
Whaleshead Rock at Whaleshead Beach
One of our favorite places to spend an afternoon or stroll in the sand is at Whaleshead Beach. Named for a rock off the shore that looks like a whale’s head rising from the water, this little-known beach is one of the longer stretches of sand on the Oregon coast. There are hiking trails in the area or you can just sit and relax while listening to the waves.
Visiting in the spring or fall? Be sure to bring your binoculars because grey whales migrate across the sea past Whaleshead, and you may just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse.
Natural Bridges
Natural Bridges as Viewed from the Observation Point
Easily the most recognized feature of the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor because of its presence on social media, Natural Bridges is a draw for those interested in visiting the area. The observation point is visible from the trailhead, so you get a stunning view with little effort. There are other “trails” to gain access to the bridges; however, these paths are not maintained by the park service. Exercise extreme caution if you venture beyond the observation point for closer views of the bridges or to walk across the bridges.
Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint
Hike to the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint
The Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint is our spot for sunset along the scenic corridor. Only a one mile walk from the parking lot, the viewpoint provides breathtaking views of the rugged coast or whale watching in the spring and fall. Head to the viewpoint for sunset alone or with someone you love, but be sure to bring a flashlight for your return walk after dark.
Arch Rock Viewpoint
Arch Rock Right Off the Coast
Another amazing place that is just a few steps from the parking lot is the Arch Rock Viewpoint. From the viewpoint, you can see several sea stacks and islands off the coast. The main feature to observe is arch rock, a massive natural stone arch. It is a wonderful spot to bird watch and to take landscape photos (or even selfies).
Secret Beach
Solo Sunbathing on Secret Beach
Our favorite place on the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is Secret Beach, a pristine strip of sand nestled between rocky cliffs. The rocks shelter the beach from the waves and wind giving visitors a peaceful place to relax. The trail to the beach is challenging to find because it is unmarked. It starts at the Thunder Rock Cove turnout (far right path). There is a moderate, 1/4 mile walk that ends with a steep decline over a rock to access the beach, but it is absolutely worth it.
The End of the Trail to Secret Beach
The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is an area worth exploring. Making Brookings or Gold Beach your home base for a visit to the scenic corridor allows you to explore all the sights along the southern Oregon coast. Tag your photos of the scenic corridor with #pinesandcoastlines to let us know what locations you love the most along this 12-mile stretch of heaven.