Bob Straub State Park sits on a narrow sand spit between the Nestucca River and the Pacific Ocean, just south of Pacific City on Oregon’s North Coast. This day-use park offers one of the coast’s most satisfying walks — a loop that takes you from windswept ocean beach to quiet river estuary and back, with views of Cape Kiwanda and Haystack Rock framing the horizon to the north.

The park’s real draw is its sense of solitude. While nearby Cape Kiwanda draws crowds, Bob Straub remains comparatively empty. Walk south along the beach and you’ll often have miles of sand to yourself, with only shorebirds and the occasional surfer for company. The estuary side is excellent for birdwatching — great blue herons, brown pelicans, and migrating shorebirds frequent the tidal flats, especially during spring and fall migration windows.

Beachcombing, kite flying, and horseback riding are all popular here. Fishing is productive along the Nestucca Bay shoreline, particularly for Dungeness crab and perch. Dogs are welcome on leash.

There is no camping at Bob Straub itself, but several campgrounds sit within a short drive, including Cape Lookout State Park to the north and Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge access points to the south.

Visit between June and September for the warmest, driest conditions, though winter storm watching from the beach is dramatic and worthwhile if you dress for it. The park is open year-round with no entrance fee. Expect wind — always expect wind.

Explore Nearby

• Salmon Wild and Scenic River — Public Land in Oregon
• Cape Meares Light — Lighthouse in Oregon
• Nestucca River Recreation Area — Public Land in Oregon
• Yaquina Head Light — Lighthouse in Oregon
• Siuslaw National Forest — National Forest in Oregon