Low tides and high temps: it must be summer on the Oregon coast.
The season brings with it the lowest tides of the year, exposing intertidal areas and leaving behind isolated pools of saltwater that serve as temporary windows, giving a rippling glimpse of what lies just below the surface.
The ocean’s tides are controlled by the gravitational pull of the moon, and to a lesser extent, the sun. Tides can be predicted well in advance, and vary from place to place, making local tide tables an essential resource for any coast-goer.
Negative tides occur when the ocean recedes more than average, attracting those eager to explore agate-laden gravel beds and dark alcoves teeming with sea stars. Newport locals and visitors can look forward to Yaquina Bay’s next set of low tides July 31 through August 3, with the lowest predicted to be -2.12ft. We’re here to act as your guide in the tide—read on for some quick tips sure to enhance your intertidal expedition.
The Oregon coast is a tidepooler’s paradise; visit our Oceanscape network for GPS coordinates and insider info on tidepool locales!
- Appropriate clothing: dress in layers, and make sure your footwear can handle slick surfaces!
- Resources to help you identify or document some of Oregon’s most unique species, such as field guides, ID sheets, a naturalist app,
- A watch and tide table, to ensure you can exit the area before the tide rises.
- A friend: the beach is safer with a buddy! If you must go alone, exercise caution, and always keep an eye on the incoming tide.
- Binoculars, to safely view wildlife (like harbor seal pups!) from a distance
- A bucket/bag: tidepool animals are protected by ODFW regulations. Do not move or collect these sensitive species! Instead, help them by picking up debris during your excursion.
- The unexpected: always plan your outings in advance, research the tides and location, and be prepared to adapt should conditions change.
- Rapidly changing weather: the Oregon coast is known for heavy rainfall and high winds—check the weather before you go!
- Difficult terrain: the areas exposed during low tides are often slick with seaweed and saltwater; they’re also pockmarked with barnacles, anemones, and other living creatures. Tread lightly, and only step on bare rock or sand.
- To see incredibly unique wildlife—lucky tidepoolers may spy giant Pacific octopuses, nudibranchs, and other fish and invertebrates! The Oregon Coast Aquarium is home to many tidepool species—get to know them here.
