Ahhh Secret Beach. One of my very favorite spots on the Southern Oregon Coast. The locals (it wasn’t me I swear) took down the sign to try to keep this little hidden gem “hidden” but alas it’s not such a secret anymore. From the road it doesn’t look like much of anything. There’s no paved parking. No signs letting you know that you’ve arrived. There’s no ticketed entry, bathrooms, or even cell service. But once you part the brush aside and start the descent down to the beach, you instantly know that the hike is going to be worth it.
The hike down is decently steep, and can be a little muddy if it’s rained recently. The dense forest cover keeps the area damp most of the year. After about a half mile descent the trail suddenly opens and you’re rewarded with the MOST epic and stunning views of the Southern Oregon Coast that you could ever hope for. To reach the sand you’ll have to climb/scramble down a large rock. Some would even call it a small mountain. It definitely helps to have a local guide (ahemm me) with you to make sure that you take the right trail, and time your arrival with low tide.
If you’re a bride wanting to hike this trail for photos or your ceremony, you have several options. I’ve had at least one bride hike down the whole trail in their full wedding dress and heels! Personally I have no idea how that bride accomplished this. I like to recommend wearing your regular ol hiking gear and boots and changing once you’re at the bottom. Or at least wear your hiking boots under the dress. If you’re up for an adventure like hiking to Secret Beach on your wedding day, you’re going to be rewarded with an incredibly special location for your elopement. And it’s totally worth bringing along all the accessories that make your day special!
This couple brought their cake and champaign along with their closest friends AND their sense of adventure. We got a little surprised by a wave that came in much further than we anticipated during their ceremony. But they didn’t even blink an eye and just kept right on with their vows. I would say that the results speak for themselves in this case!
When you think about your elopement/wedding day and you already know that you want something different, less traditional, more adventure….this could be just the spot for you. If you’re ready to hike, explore, do something totally new and super fun to celebrate your love then let’s chat!
