Cape Arago Beach Loop

Cape Arago Beach Loop connects Shore Acres State Park with the adjacent Cape Arago State Park through a coastal trail that passes exceptional sea lion viewing areas and productive intertidal zones. The route traverses the dramatic sandstone headlands characteristic of this stretch of the southern Oregon coast, where the rock has been sculpted into coves, stacks, and arches by centuries of wave action. The trail descends to North Beach and South Beach at Cape Arago, both sheltered coves that provide access to excellent tidepools rich with sea stars, anemones, chitons, and sea lettuce. The offshore rocks and the Shell Island Complex visible from Cape Arago support large populations of Steller sea lions, California sea lions, and harbor seals, with thousands of animals hauled out and visible from the headland viewpoints during peak season. The vocalizations of the sea lion colony carry clearly to shore, adding a wild soundtrack to the coastal scenery. Harbor seals pup on the beaches in spring, and California sea lions breed on the rocks in summer. Interpretive signs at Cape Arago explain the ecology and behavior of the pinniped species visible from the viewing areas. Shorebirds and seabirds including black oystercatchers, surfbirds, and pelagic cormorants inhabit the rocky intertidal zone year-round. The diverse wildlife viewing opportunities make this loop one of the premier wildlife experiences available at any Oregon state park.