There are enough activities in Gold Beach to keep any visitor busy for several days. Winter storm watching is a favorite pastime as the Pacific sends huge waves crashing onto offshore rocks. After a storm is the best time for beachcombing. Horseback rides are offered year 'round on the area's scenic beaches and through the coastal mountains. Local outfitter Hawk's Rest Ranch is based in the nearby town of Pistol River, south of Gold Beach.
Hikers have several trails to choose from.
They include the six-mile Humbug Mountain Trail and the Oregon Coast Trail immediately north and south of town. An increasing number of windsurfers have discovered the breezy, breathtaking shoreline at Gold Beach and Pistol River. Probably the most popular summer and fall activity in Gold Beach is Rogue River jet boat trips. Several companies offer trips up the Rogue. These include trips of a few hours up to all-day excursions that travel more than 50 miles upriver.