When the tide retreats, the bottom of the sea is exposed for exploration by land animals. There we can closely visit the marine organisms attached to the rocks and trapped in pools–sea stars, sea urchins, sea anemones, hermit crabs, and much more.
[tidepooling at Sunset Bay]
[mossy chiton at Sunset Bay]
Discover our tidepools for yourself! Contact us to arrange your own exploration.
Outfitting
What to wear? Layers are always a good idea on the Oregon Coast–a short-sleeved shirt with a long-sleeved top over is a popular combination; some will appreciate a vest or sweatshirt. Long pants are very highly suggested for tidepooling to protect knees from sharp barnacles. While there are a few areas on the Oregon Coast you can visit the rocky shore habitat while standing on sand, most tidepooling involves walking on hard rocks that are covered with patches of very slippery seaweeds. (Think “buttered lasagna noodles” or “piles of glossy magazines.”) Footwear is required (no flip-flops or bare feet) to protect feet from sharp barnacles: boots with gripping soles, old tennies that tie securely, or watershoes that cover the foot are good options. Tevas or similar footwear may be passable if worn with heavy socks that protect the feet from cuts. There is an excellent chance your feet will get wet! There’s also a chance that you’ll slip, so cameras/phones should be secured in a deep or zippered pocket: hands should be kept free; don’t put anything you your back pockets you wouldn’t want to sit on. Walking sticks concentrate great pressure in a small area, and are very strongly discouraged.