Overview
Agate Beach is the most popular spot on this stretch just north of Newport, a wide beachbreak tucked behind the massive Yaquina Head promontory that shelters it from north wind. It breaks over sand and is known for great longboard waves.
When It Works
This is a consistent beachbreak that works at most tides. On high tide it breaks close to shore, then gets hollower and more lined up as the tide drops and the break moves further out. It draws swell from south through west-southwest to northwest and is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 4.6 m / 15 ft, working as a mellow beginner wave when it's small but able to hold a huge swell, easily double overhead. Expect both lefts and rights.
Wind and Tide
Look for east offshore wind. The beach works through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
It's a friendly spot for beginners, especially on smaller days, and the lineup gets busy when it's working. Close to the head, a rip offers an easy ride out to the lineup. Keep in mind there's some shark danger here.
Access
There's plenty of free parking at the Agate Beach wayside, with both a car park and roadside parking. Facilities cover the basics: restrooms, showers, camping, a lifeguard, a surf school, and surf shops for anything else you need.
