THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Combine kayaking and snorkeling on Oregon’s wild southern coast with this unique 3-hour trip at Orford Heads and Nellies Cove—an ideal way to see vibrant marine life and stunning coastal rock formations.
Combine kayaking and snorkeling on Oregon’s wild southern coast with this unique 3-hour trip at Orford Heads and Nellies Cove—an ideal way to see vibrant marine life and stunning coastal rock formations.
Book with South Coast Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
285 ratings
Operated by South Coast Tours · Gold Beach, Oregon
Port Orford Snorkeling and Kayak offers an invigorating 3-hour journey along the rugged southern Oregon coastline, perfectly blending paddling and underwater discovery into one seamless adventure. Situated along the dramatic cliffs of Orford Heads, this tour invites adventurers to kayak calm coastal waters framed by ancient sandstone formations and sweeping ocean vistas. Orford Heads is known for its crisp sea air and dynamic tidal pools, where curious harbor seals and colorful seabirds frequently make appearances.
The trip continues with snorkeling at Nellies Cove, a sheltered spot famed for its vibrant marine life and clear water. This cove reveals a kaleidoscope of kelp forests, anemones, and rockfish beneath the surface, providing a lively glimpse into Oregon’s rich underwater ecosystem. Snorkelers can expect a window into tidal pools teeming with stars and crabs, and the opportunity to witness the delicate interaction of waves against rugged volcanic rock.
More than a typical coastal outing, the tour is carefully designed with expert guides, quality gear, and safety in mind, allowing paddlers of all skill levels to comfortably navigate and dive in this unique environment. The blend of kayaking and snorkeling makes it ideal for pairs and outdoor lovers seeking a richer encounter with the natural world, away from the crowds.
Just minutes from the quaint town of Port Orford, this adventure serves as a vibrant gateway to southern Oregon’s quieter seaside charm. Its accessibility and the chance to engage with multiple aspects of coastal wildlife make it a standout choice for visitors wanting a personalized, active connection to this wild stretch of Pacific shoreline.
No, the guides provide all instruction needed to paddle safely.
You may spot harbor seals, seabirds, and colorful fish around the cove.
Yes, quality wetsuits and snorkeling gear are included in the tour package.
The snorkeling area is sheltered and shallow, suitable even for beginners.
Generally, participants should be at least 12 years old and confident swimmers.
Tours may be rescheduled to ensure safety and optimal conditions.
South Coast Tours operates out of Brookings, Oregon, offering guided kayak and boat excursions along the southern Oregon coast. The company runs a range of trips including ocean kayak fishing tours in Port Orford and Brookings, wildlife viewing paddles on the Chetco River estuary and coastal kelp beds, a whales and wildlife boat tour from Dolley Dock in Port Orford, snorkeling combined with kayaking at Orford Heads and Nellies Cove, and convenient boat shuttles between Bullards Beach State Park Campground and Old Town Bandon. Trips feature Hobie kayaks for several ocean fishing and wildlife tours and include a boat-based option aboard the nearly unsinkable Black Pearl for Redfish Rocks and whale viewing. The Arches Territory inflatable paddle experience notes over 15 years of guiding in Samuel Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Tours target local species such as Blue and Black rockfish, Ling Cod, gray whales, sea lions, harbor seals, pelicans, kingfishers, and a variety of seabirds, plus kelp and tidepool life. South Coast Tours serves families, anglers, hikers, snorkelers, and wildlife enthusiasts, with outings ranging from short estuary paddles to multi-hour fishing and snorkeling adventures. Departure points include Brookings and Port Orford, and specialized services include boat shuttles for Oregon Coast Trail hikers. Information provided in tour descriptions outlines durations, activities, and highlights for each trip. South Coast Tours offers coastal exploration options that connect visitors to the marine environment and local landmarks while showcasing southern Oregon’s natural diversity. Booking details, pricing, and seasonal availability are listed on their tour pages.
Book with South Coast Tours
