D River State Recreation Site

Tucked into the heart of Lincoln City on Oregon’s Central Coast, D River State Recreation Site sits at the mouth of one of the world’s shortest rivers. The D River flows just 120 feet from Devils Lake to the Pacific Ocean, making it a quirky geographic landmark that draws curious visitors year-round. But the real draw is the wide, windswept beach that flanks it — one of the best kite-flying stretches on the entire Oregon Coast.

Lincoln City hosts two major kite festivals here each summer and fall, filling the sky with color and drawing enthusiasts from across the Pacific Northwest. Even outside festival weekends, steady coastal winds make this a reliable spot to launch a kite or simply watch others navigate theirs overhead.

The beach itself is broad and accessible, with a paved path from the parking area down to the sand. Tidepooling, beachcombing, and whale watching round out the activities, and the site’s central location puts restaurants, shops, and the Chinook Winds Casino within walking distance. Dogs are welcome on-leash.

There’s no camping at D River itself, but Devils Lake State Recreation Area sits less than two miles east and offers both tent and RV sites with lake access.

Visit between June and September for the driest weather and festival season, or come in December and March for gray whale migration viewing. Dress in layers — the wind that makes this spot famous also keeps temperatures cool, even in midsummer.