King Tides: The Truths, Myths, and Adventures Waiting to Happen
The allure of King Tides is undeniable. Every year, coastal enthusiasts, rockhounds, and thrill-seekers alike ask, "Can I rockhound during King Tides?"
The short answer is yes... kinda! But as with most things involving the ocean, there's a mix of fact and fiction to sift through before you lace up your boots and head to the shore. So let’s break it down, myth by myth, fact by fact, to help you make the most of these powerful natural events while staying safe.
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MYTH: "I saw massive waves crashing over rocks—must be King Tides!"
Fact: King Tides aren’t just about big waves. They occur three times a year, like clockwork: November, December, and January. Mark your calendars for this season's dates:
November 15-17, 2024
December 13-15, 2024
January 11-13, 2025
King Tides are driven by the gravitational pull of the sun and moon aligning just right, creating extreme differences between low and high tides. But they don’t always come with the spectacle of giant waves. The showstoppers you see online? Those are usually King Tides mixed with stormy weather—a wild and potentially dangerous combo.
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MYTH: "King Tides are always Instagram-worthy!"
Fact: The "King" in King Tides refers to the dramatic tidal swings—not necessarily to the waves' size or photogenic quality. On calm, sunny days, a King Tide might simply mean water levels are exceptionally high (and then low). But when a storm blows through, those tides can suddenly surge higher and faster, turning an ordinary beach day into something unpredictable. ALWAYS check tide tables and weather reports before heading out. And when you arrive, stop and observe the ocean’s behavior for a while. If the waves are reaching the seawall or debris is washing up, it’s best to enjoy the view from a safe distance.
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MYTH: "Never, ever go to the beach during King Tides."
Fact: This one’s a bit of a half-truth. Sure, King Tides can be risky—especially if combined with bad weather. But if you're cautious, prepared, and watchful, low tide during a King Tide can reveal hidden treasures. The catch? Timing. King Tides often have their low point early in the morning or in the evening, leaving you searching in the dark. If you’re determined to venture out, pick a falling tide during daylight, with clear weather, and after thoroughly scoping out the area first.
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MYTH: "If you're caught in a King Tide, you're done for."
Fact: Getting caught by a sneaker wave or a surging tide is no joke, but it doesn’t mean game over—if you’re prepared. Prevention is key. Study the tide tables, scan the weather forecast, and when you get to the beach, watch from a high vantage point for at least 10 minutes before approaching. Look for signs like foam or wet sand far up the shore—these are clues the ocean has already been paying your beach a visit. If you do get swept up by a wave, don’t fight it head-on. Conserve your energy, work with the pull of the water, and aim to move diagonally out of the current. Avoid areas littered with driftwood; the debris can turn into dangerous projectiles in rough water.
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MYTH: "King Tides ruin everything except wave-watching."
Fact: The truth is, there’s still plenty to do if you play it safe. With a little good weather, you can still shore crab, fish from a boat, or dig for clams—especially if those clam beds are exposed during a particularly low tide. A King Tide can even be an unexpected blessing, unveiling rock formations, tide pools, and treasures that are usually hidden beneath the waves. But remember: as quickly as those treasures are revealed, they can disappear just as fast.
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So, What’s the Big Deal About King Tides?
While they can be thrilling for beachgoers and photographers, King Tides are also a glimpse into the future. As climate change raises sea levels, King Tides are becoming a preview of the “sunny day” floods expected to become more common. Coastal communities and estuaries could face higher risks of flooding even without a cloud in the sky. Oregon is already tracking these changes. You can help by documenting King Tide impacts through this project: Track Oregon’s King Tides
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So, can you rockhound during King Tides? The answer is yes... if you’re prepared, cautious, and ready for a little adventure. Remember: the ocean is always in charge. Know your tides, check the weather, and above all, trust your instincts. The treasures of the Oregon coast are there for the finding—but only if you keep your wits about you!
