During June through August (sometimes September), Otter Rock has gentle waves with few hazards. This makes Otter Rock one of Oregon’s most popular surf spots for beginners. However, it’s important to be cautious about surfing in Otter Rock from September to May. The waves are larger, and it can be dangerous to surf. We’ll discuss how to monitor surfing conditions later on in this blog post.

Also located in Otter Rock is the unparalleled Inn at Otter Crest, which features private beach access to one of the seven protected Marine Gardens on the Oregon Coast. You might not want to leave the hotel, but we promise surfing in Otter Rock, Oregon, is also a lot of fun!

Check Out the One-Stop Surf Shop

Pura Vida Surf Shop is the one-stop destination in Otter Rock, Oregon, for all your surfing needs. You can purchase or rent all your surfing equipment, from wet suits to boards, at Pura Vida Surf Shop. For those new to surfing, they offer lessons that have great customer reviews. We highly recommend that beginners take surfing lessons. 

Don’t Forget To Look at the Otter Rock Surf Report

The tides and winds change daily and can be a significant factor in the success you’ll have surfing. The Surf Report & Forecast for Otter Rock, Oregon, can help you plan your surfing trip. Be sure to consult with the local surf shop on the current conditions and hazards BEFORE getting in the water. 

Surfing Tips For Beginners 

  1. Make sure you get a surfboard designed for beginners. Find your surfboard from a surf shop rather than online, so you’ll have an expert to help find the right one for you.
  2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Learning to surf by yourself is challenging and can be dangerous. The Otter Rock area has great surfing instructors that will have you riding the waves in no time.  
  3. Don’t forget to wear water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and to reapply often. 
  4. Wear a long-sleeve tight-fitting shirt made from polyester, spandex, or Lycra Mix material to prevent chafing under your wetsuit. 
  5. Get a leash for your surfboard, so it doesn’t ride away or hit another surfer.
  6. Otter Rock, like every headland, has a rip against the cliff. Don’t get too close! If you get stuck, DO NOT panic and paddle toward the beach. Instead, paddle directly south parallel to the beach until you are out of the rip.

We’re Super Stoked for Your Stay at the Inn at Otter Crest

What are you waiting for, dudes and dudettes? Book your stay today at the Inn at Otter Crest! Our amenities stand out from other oceanfront hotels on the Oregon Coast, with some rooms overlooking the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. We can’t wait to welcome you!