Dip your paddle in and meander these calm, quiet coastal waterways.
There’s nothing like the thrill of a fast boat excursion or shredding mountain bike trails on the Oregon Coast, but sometimes slow, leisurely outdoor enjoyment is the perfect day out. Whether you’re kayaking or paddleboarding, using rental gear or booking an expert guide, these peaceful spots are a great place to start. You’ll find wind-protected lakes and meandering rivers with close-up views of marshlands, birds and wildlife; read on for these and more pleasures of spending time on the water.
Lakes and Streams Along the North Coast
Even in bustling towns on the North Coast, you’ll find plenty of places for a quiet paddle. Seaside has an accessible launch in Broadway Park — perfect for a kayak rented from Cleanline Surf shop nearby — to enjoy birding on Neawanna Creek. Tillamook also has an accessible dock and launch at Sue H. Elmore Park; here you’ll access lovely Hoquarton Slough. Meander down the slow-moving waters in this channel while spotting plenty of ducks and blue herons.
For a calm lake paddle, drive the Three Capes Scenic Loop to Cape Meares Lake. The lake covers 120 acres with an easy-to-access boat launch, with banks covered in grassy wetlands, ample bird-watching opportunities and vibrant pink lily pads blossoming in the late spring. The tranquil lake is quiet and calm, but keep in mind the winds here typically pick up in the afternoon. About 5 miles out of Pacific City off Highway 101, launch at the Little Nestucca Boat Ramp for access to the Little Nestucca River and Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to songbirds, deer, bear and fish. Only nonmotorized watercraft are allowed here, offering a peaceful opportunity to venture through marshlands and spot blooming wildflowers in early summer. Kayak Tillamook offers guided tours of these areas, in addition to other paddling paradises like Miami Cove, the Salmon River and Nehalem Bay.
Calm Channels on the Central Coast
Just north of Lincoln City, within the UNESCO Cascade Head Biosphere Reserve, the Salmon River Estuary is made up of a series of water channels. Launch at Knight Park and head toward the mouth of the Salmon River for views of towering Cascade Head, or go right across from the launch to a sandy beach. Keep your eyes peeled for elk here.
In Lincoln City, Devils Lake offers almost 700 acres of water to wander, with excellent wind protection for a calm paddle thanks to plenty of pine, spruce and fir trees. Launch from several areas around the lake, including the East Devil’s Lake State Park Day-Use Area. In Waldport, paddle as long as you desire up the 10-mile Alsea River Water Trail. Launch at the accessible dock at the Port of Alsea, and keep an eye out for river otters and swimming seals in this area.For a gentle paddle down a river toward the ocean, the Siltcoos River in Dunes City is the spot. Bring your own gear or book a rental from Siltcoos Lake Resort. Starting from the lake down through the river, you’ll pass sand dunes and wetlands along the 3-mile stretch with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife — be sure to know regulations related to western snowy plovers if you’re oceanbound from March 15 to September 15. Keep in mind there is a small area that requires portaging here around the dam, but a kayak slide makes the job easier.
Serene Waterways on the South Coast
While the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve has many hiking trails, you can also experience this area from the water. You can launch from the north end in downtown Charleston or the south end at the Hinch Bridge and paddle the full 5-mile trek from launch to launch, or plan for a shorter trip. Keep the tide in mind here and enjoy paddling through forested banks and salt marsh, with views of blue herons, kingfishers, brown pelicans and the occasional seal.
For a more in-depth experience of the South Slough or many other waterways, learn from an expert with a guided tour from South Coast Tours. You’ll find a wide variety of paddling tours, from beginner-friendly options to advanced adventures, all over the South Coast.
For a lake paddle, put in at John Topits Park in Coos Bay, which offers an accessible kayak ramp and access to Empire Lakes. If you don’t have your own kayak, you can rent from the Coastal Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Boards rentals kiosk here. The tranquil lake and its glassy waters are surrounded by towering trees with opportunities to spot geese and deer. For more paddling inspiration, visit the South Coast kayaking page.
If You Go:
- If you’re paddling without a guide, be sure you have the state-required paddlecraft permit.
- Check the tides if you’re heading to any waterway, including the river, estuary or ocean, as they can impact water current and depth.
- State-required gear includes a life jacket and whistle.
- Educate yourself and take care with these handy beach safety tips.
– By Molly Allen
– Top photo by Ken Hagen and Anton Hugo