Gold Beach

Gold Beach is a small coastal town on southern Oregon's shores where the Rogue River flows into the Pacific Ocean, with the Siskiyou Mountains rising inland. The setting combines beach life with rural character, where forest and ocean meet.

The settlement was originally called Ellensburg but changed its name to Gold Beach in 1890 after gold particles were discovered in the beach sands. This renaming marked the beginning of a mining era that shaped the community's early growth.

The town's name comes from gold flakes that once drew prospectors to its beaches. This heritage still shapes how locals relate to their coastal community and its mining past.

The town has a visitor center that provides maps and information about regional activities during its open hours. Visitors should note that weather and seasons affect beach conditions, and it is wise to prepare for changing weather patterns.

A notable feature is the historic mailboat route along the Rogue River that has operated for over a century. This river service remains one of the last of its kind in America, connecting remote communities in a time-honored way.

Location: Curry County

Inception: 1853

Elevation above the sea: 20 m

Address: Gold Beach, OR 97444, USA

Website: https://goldbeachoregon.gov

GPS coordinates: 42.40222,-124.41528

Latest update: December 17, 2025 08:31