During November of 2009, a storm hitting the southern California coast generated enough wave action that the swells reached all the way up the coast to Shore Acres producing some of the largest waves observed in some time. The photo to the left is one of the largest waves I have ever photographed. It towered well over 300 feet into the air. |
Where land and water collide in spectacular dramatic form When it comes to finding a jewel on the Oregon Coast where the diversity alone will keep you busy for days, even months, Shore Acres State Park on the Southern Oregon Coast can easily be labelled as that Jewel on the South Coast. This incredible land was once owned by Louis Simpson, the famed pioneer timber baron and founder of the city North Bend. The State Park is one of the southern coast best kept secrets. There is no other place on the Pacific Coast where consistent high wave action can be predicted and safely observed so close on a regular seasonal basis. Shore Acres State Park is where landforms, ocean currents, storm surges and the continental shelf dance equally and put on such natural dramatic show of raw power. Throughout the winter months and into early spring, Shore Acres comes alive in spectacular majesty. Respectfully named the Shore Acres Waves when winter storm enraged seas generate 25 to 40 foot incoming swells. The waves collide with the parks 80 to 100 foot angular cliff line. The results are spectacular beauty, awesome power, and mesmerizing fury of ground shaking wave explosions reaching up to three hundred feet into the air. CLICK on the SLIDESHOW below That same sequence of high surf in 2009 became the inspiration behind the making of this video complimented with music. Push the play simple and enjoy. Shore Acres State Park is a barrier free park, allowing you explore to the cliff edges. During a high surf it is advised to take serious precautions while enjoying the wave action. Towering wave explosions have reached in the upwards of 300 feet into the air, and across the upper reef and well into the forest trees, a good 500 feet off the ocean. Being aware of your surroundings is highly recommended at all times! In the photo below, one can assume it was the last photo taken of me standing on the edge...but one must know of the perspective this photo was taken from. The crashing wave is hitting well to the north, and I didn't even get wet from this wave. Also, though the wave appears large, the water volume is not. Safety measures were taken before this shot was composed, but unless you understand the direction of the in coming waves, standing on this point is not recommended during a high surf advisory.
2 Comments
|
The Goal
Join Steven Michael on his adventures around the Pacific Northwest, learning about some of the lost history, and hidden gems he is rediscovering throughout the state. AuthorSteven's hope is that his travels will inspire you to get out and explore the Archives
May 2023
Categories
All
|