Ocean Shores' Surf and Sun Virtual Walk: Help the Oregon Coast Without Being There

Published 07/23/25 at 6:25 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Seal Rock, Oregon) - The environmental nonprofit Oregon Shores has announced its third annual “Surf & Sun Virtual Walk & Run,” scheduled to run from August 1 through August 10. The statewide fundraising initiative encourages participants and friends of the Oregon coast to explore natural public lands while raising awareness and financial support for Oregon Shores’ coastal conservation efforts. (Seal Rock - Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

And you don't even need to be on the Oregon coast to help the coastline. This can be on the coast or other natural public lands – all while getting your steps in and enjoying the outdoors as you're supporting coastal conservation.

Participants – wherever they are - will commit to walking or running at least three miles, embracing the outdoors and the spirit of collective action. The event invites individuals to form teams via the organization’s Givebutter campaign page, where friends, family, and colleagues can contribute donations in support of each mile completed.

“By participating in this event, you will help raise awareness and generate vital funds for Oregon Shores' mission to educate, engage, and empower people to protect our coastal ecosystems, landscapes, and communities,” organizers said.

Hills above Port Orford (Oregon Department of Forestry photo)

Registration includes a $25 donation and features a commemorative Surf & Sun athletic t-shirt (available in long or short sleeves) for early registrants who sign up by July 15. It's a “thank you” for “everyone’s commitment to preserving our coastal ecosystems,” as organizers put it.

All proceeds go toward Oregon Shores’ work in education, engagement, and environmental stewardship across the state’s coastal regions.

For more information or to join the challenge, visit Oregon Shores’ official fundraising page.

Oregon Shores has been looking out for the coastline since 1971, helping to preserve the landscape and oceanscape. The group has assisted with numerous environmental victories and milestones along the coast, including the creation of the marine reserves and CoastWatch, which keeps an eye on all state beaches and reports issues manmade or otherwise.

Event Information: https://oregonshores.org/programs-campaigns/surf-sun-virtual-walk-run/
Registration Form: https://givebutter.com/Surf_Sun/join
Givebutter Campaign: https://givebutter.com/Surf_Sun

Some Suggested Coast Hikes:

Around Seal Rock near Waldport, hikers can explore a mix of coastal forest trails and beach walks with dramatic ocean views. The Seal Rock State Recreation Site offers a short but scenic trail with tidepools, basalt formations, and wildlife viewing, including harbor seals. Nearby, the Beaver Creek Loop Trail winds through lush wetlands and Sitka spruce groves, while the Horse Creek Trail in Drift Creek Wilderness provides a more challenging backcountry experience. For long-distance trekkers, the Oregon Coast Trail: Waldport to Florence section begins here, offering nearly 48 miles of varied terrain from beaches to headlands. Hotels in Waldport - Where to eat - Waldport, Seal Rock Maps and Virtual Tours

At Cape Blanco, Oregon’s westernmost point, hikers will find windswept bluffs, historic landmarks, and secluded beaches. The Lighthouse Trail and Beach Trail offer easy access to panoramic views and the iconic Cape Blanco Lighthouse. For a deeper coastal experience, the Cape Blanco Loop Hike combines forested paths, beach walks, and estuary views near the Sixes River. Trails like the Hughes House Trail and Cape Blanco Coastal Trail showcase wildflowers, sea stacks, and opportunities to spot whales and seabirds. The area’s remoteness adds to its rugged charm. - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours

In the Oceanside area, hiking options blend dramatic headlands with hidden beaches. The Cape Meares Viewpoint and Octopus Tree Trail provides moderate elevation and stunning coastal vistas, while the Cape Meares Lighthouse Loop is a shorter, family-friendly option. For longer treks, the Oceanside to Netarts Hike offers a 6.4-mile beach walk past tidepools, sea stacks, and quiet coves, ideal for wildlife watching and photography. Hotels in Three Capes - Where to eat - Three Capes Maps and Virtual Tours

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