Guide to King Tides on the Oregon Coast

Understanding the Phenomenon: What Are King Tides?

King tides are the highest predicted tides of the year. On the Oregon Coast, king tides occur when the sun, moon, and Earth align at their closest points. This creates extreme high tides and, often, extreme low tides. King tides are a natural part of the tide cycle, but they can help us visualize what normal flooding could look like as sea levels rise.

During king tide events along the Oregon Coast, waves crash farther up on beaches, coastal roads may flood, and low-lying areas often go underwater. If you love dramatic coastal views, king tides offer one of nature’s most breathtaking (and educational) spectacles.

When Do King Tides Happen on the Oregon Coast?

King tides generally occur during the winter months, from November through February. They happen a few times a year, typically when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit (a perigee) and in line with the sun. Check official Oregon tide charts or local news for the precise dates each year. Timing can vary by location on the Oregon Coast.

• Late autumn and winter months see the highest king tides.
• King tides often coincide with full or new moons.
• Storms can make the tides appear even more dramatic.

Why Are King Tides Significant for Coastal Communities?

These extreme high tides are more than a stunning natural event. King tides serve as a preview of future sea level rise. Coastal flooding, beach erosion, and infrastructure vulnerability all become more visible. For Oregon coastal towns, capturing images and data from king tides is essential for climate change planning and emergency response preparedness.

King tide observations help:

• Assess flood risk to homes, roads, and businesses.
• Guide future land use decisions in flood-prone areas.
• Track patterns and changes year over year.

Where Are the Best Places to View King Tides in Oregon?

The entire Oregon Coast, from Astoria to Brookings, experiences king tides. Some areas are especially dramatic due to the geography, access, and background scenery.

• Seaside and Cannon Beach: Long, flat beaches can disappear under water during a king tide. The Haystack Rock area is popular for photographers.
• Newport: Yaquina Bay, Nye Beach, and the historic bayfront offer dramatic views and safe observation points.
• Lincoln City: The D River State Recreation Site is a favorite for locals watching tidal surges.
• Florence: The Siuslaw River mouth and Heceta Beach show significant differences between normal and king tide heights.
• Gold Beach and Brookings: These southern towns see dramatic river tides and sea swells.

Tips for Safely Watching King Tides

King tides are powerful and can be dangerous. Always prioritize safety when observing the Oregon Coast’s high tides.

• Stay on established trails or observation decks.
• Never turn your back on the ocean—sneaker waves are common during king tide events.
• Avoid walking on jetties or rocks, as they may become slippery.
• Check local weather and tide charts before you go.
• Keep a safe distance from cliffs, as waves may undermine their base.
• Bring a camera with a zoom lens instead of approaching the water.

How Is Climate Change Connected to King Tides and Sea Level Rise?

King tides offer a real-life preview of what higher average tides could look like as climate change raises sea levels. While king tides themselves are naturally occurring, observing their effects helps coastal communities see which locations are most at risk from future flooding and erosion.

By photographing and sharing king tide events, you help scientists, city officials, and planners track changes over time. Every photo and data point adds to our understanding of Oregon Coast resilience.

How to Participate: Oregon King Tides Project

The Oregon King Tides Project invites residents and visitors to photograph and share observations during king tide events. These crowdsourced images help track the impact of the higher tides and contribute to a better understanding of coastal change and sea level rise.

• Find king tide dates at state or local agencies’ websites.
• Share your photos on social media using #KingTides and relevant location tags.
• Submit images to official photo projects contributing to scientific studies.
• Include location, date, and time information in your photo submissions.

By participating, you help document how king tides affect the Oregon Coast from year to year. This is valuable for both your community and for scientists studying coastal changes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon Coast King Tides

What time of year are king tides on the Oregon Coast?

King tides typically occur during late fall and winter, from November to February. Specific dates change each year based on lunar and solar positions, so check an Oregon tide chart before planning your trip.

Are king tides dangerous?

Yes, king tides can be dangerous. High water, sneaker waves, and strong currents are common. Always observe from a safe distance and follow local safety guidelines.

Can anyone participate in the Oregon King Tides Project?

Yes! Residents, visitors, students, and nature lovers are all welcome to participate. Taking and sharing photos during king tide events supports community science efforts.

How can I find out when the next king tide will happen?

Local news, state parks, and the Oregon King Tides Project publish tide calendars. These will list the precise dates and times for king tides at different coastal locations.

Why are king tides important for climate change research?

King tides show what normal high tides could look like as sea levels rise. By documenting flooding, erosion, and damage during king tide events, we can plan for and adapt to climate impacts on the Oregon Coast.

Best Practices for Photographing King Tides Safely

If you want to document king tides, remember these safety and photography tips:

• Use a tripod for stability during windy conditions.
• Stay back from bluff edges or unstable ground.
• Photograph during daylight for best visibility.
• Include familiar landmarks for visual comparison.
• Upload high-resolution images to support scientific research.
• Always obey posted warnings and avoid closed areas.

Why Your King Tide Observations Matter

Your photos and observations tell a powerful story. When you document and share these high tides, you help protect coastal communities, inform future planning, and inspire others to join stewardship efforts. The Oregon Coast’s natural beauty and resilience depend on caring, informed observers like you.