Harris Beach State Park Tours and Activities

Harris Beach State Park which includes rugged coastline
Harris Beach State Park showing landscape views and a sandy beach
Harris Beach State Park showing rocky coastline and a sandy beach
Harris Beach State Park
Harris Beach State Park showing rocky coastline


Explore the rugged beauty of Oregon’s coast at this state park, which offers views of an ocean playground for whales, seals, puffins and other animals.

See some of Oregon’s most beautiful coastal scenery at Harris Beach State Park. With varied terrain ranging from sandy beaches to rocky islands to lush forests, this park pleases visitors year-round. 

The state park was named in honor of George Harris, a Scottish pioneer who settled here in the late 19th century to raise livestock. The area may no longer be home to sheep and cattle, but you can find a huge variety of birds and other wild animals.

 Each season brings different creatures with it. Gray whales swim by on their winter and spring migrations, while you can usually find harbor seals and California sea lions frolicking offshore. In the winter, dramatic storms create darkly beautiful sights. Summer, on the other hand, is the perfect season to bring your kite and enjoy sunny weather.  

Walk along sandy beaches and explore tidal pools filled with tiny shells, crabs and other sea life. Low tide leaves swarms of California mussels, black turban snails and starfish on shore. 

Bird Island is one of Oregon’s largest coastal islands. Also called Goat Island, this National Wildlife Refuge is a frequent breeding ground for birds. Try to spot a petrel or tufted puffin on its shores. 

Regardless of the time of year that you visit, you’ll find plenty of camping options at Harris Beach. Drive in your RV or pitch a tent. For a unique experience, rent one of the onsite yurts. The campground area offers picnic and grilling areas, along with a restroom and shower.

Harris Beach State Park is conveniently located off Highway 101, the famous American roadway that travels the length of the West Coast. In less than ten minutes you can drive to downtown Brookings, the southernmost city on the coast of Oregon. The California state border is just 7.6 miles (12.2 kilometers) away.  

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Harris Beach State Park

Blue Coast Inn and Suites

Blue Coast Inn and Suites

2 out of 5
1216 Chetco Ave, Brookings, OR
Blue Coast Inn and Suites
AmeriCoast Inn

AmeriCoast Inn

2.5 out of 5
1215 Chetco Avenue, Brookings, OR
AmeriCoast Inn
Brookings Inn Resort

Brookings Inn Resort

2 out of 5
1143 Chetco Avenue, Brookings, OR
Brookings Inn Resort
Pacific Sunset Inn

Pacific Sunset Inn

2 out of 5
1144 Chetco Ave., Brookings, OR
Pacific Sunset Inn
Westward Inn

Westward Inn

2 out of 5
1026 Chetco Avenue, Brookings, OR
Westward Inn
Welcome to the Harris Beach House, located ON the beach with private access!

Welcome to the Harris Beach House, located ON the beach with private access!

Brookings
Welcome to the Harris Beach House, located ON the beach with private access!
Remodeled home- spacious, beautiful yard, hot tub & ocean view all around!!

Remodeled home- spacious, beautiful yard, hot tub & ocean view all around!!

Brookings
Remodeled home- spacious, beautiful yard, hot tub & ocean view all around!!
Beachfront Inn

Beachfront Inn

2.5 out of 5
16008 Boat Basin Road, Brookings, OR
Beachfront Inn
Sparkling Clean, Private & Quiet! Amazing Ocean Views [7]

Sparkling Clean, Private & Quiet! Amazing Ocean Views [7]

Brookings
Sparkling Clean, Private & Quiet! Amazing Ocean Views [7]
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Harris Beach State Park

At Harris Beach State Park in Brookings, Oregon, visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, excellent birdwatching, and thrilling surfing opportunities. The park features well-maintained picnic areas and campsites, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Stroll along the scenic walking paths or relax on the beach, where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the coast. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquillity, Harris Beach offers a memorable experience for all.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, visit Gold Beach Books, a charming store located 38.6km away from Harris Beach State Park. If you're up for a drive, the picturesque coastal scenery makes the journey worthwhile.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Salmon Run Golf Course, where you can embrace the outdoors and unwind amidst beautiful landscapes. For relaxation, visit McVay Rock State Recreation Site or Crissey Field State Recreation Site, both offering serene environments perfect for rejuvenation and wellness activities.

Adventure

Explore the Redwood Nature Trail, located 11.3km from Harris Beach State Park, where you can hike among towering trees and enjoy breathtaking scenery. For a more challenging hike, venture 37.0km to the Boy Scout Tree Trail, which offers stunning views and a true sense of adventure.

Nightlife

For an exciting nightlife near Harris Beach State Park, visit Lucky 7 Casino, 16.1km away, where romance meets city vibes. Alternatively, Elk Valley Casino, 38.6km distant, offers a similar lively atmosphere, perfect for those seeking entertainment and a bit of luck.

Find the best attractions near Harris Beach State Park

At Harris Beach State Park in Brookings, Oregon, visitors can enjoy a blend of stunning beach views and outdoor adventures. The park features a beautiful beach perfect for relaxation and exploration, alongside urban parks that offer a city experience. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Harris Beach State Park Campground, making it an ideal base for discovering the natural beauty of the area, including hiking and enjoying the coastal scenery.

  • Samuel H Boardman State Park: A stunning coastal destination, this park features breathtaking views, rugged cliffs, and lush forests. It’s perfect for hiking and exploring the great outdoors, offering a sense of adventure and tranquility, only 3.2km from Harris Beach State Park.
  • Harris Beach: This picturesque beach is known for its stunning sunsets and beautiful sandy shores. Located just 805m away, it’s ideal for relaxing strolls, beachcombing, and soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere.
  • Azalea Park: A charming urban park located 3.2km away, Azalea Park is perfect for families and features beautiful gardens, picnic areas, and walking paths, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful escape in a vibrant city setting.

Best time to go to Harris Beach State Park

The best time to visit Harris Beach State Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Harris Beach State Park falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Harris Beach State Park falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January48.0°F (8.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February46.6°F (8.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March47.1°F (8.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July62.4°F (16.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August62.8°F (17.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
October56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
November50.5°F (10.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December47.1°F (8.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Harris Beach State Park

To save money on your trip to Harris Beach State Park, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices are lower, as opposed to the busier summer months. Aim to book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Enjoy free entry to the park and nearby attractions like Azalea Park and Samuel H. Boardman State Park. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Harris Beach State Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Harris Beach State Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Harris Beach State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on costs by combining your hotel reservation at Harris Beach State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.