Moolack Beach facts for kids
Moolack Beach is a beautiful sandy beach on the Oregon Coast. It's about 6 kilometers (4 miles) north of Newport in Lincoln County, United States. This beach stretches for almost 8 kilometers (5 miles). Its southern end is near Yaquina Head, and its northern end is at Otter Rock. That's where you'll find the Devils Punch Bowl State Natural Area.
The northern part of Moolack Beach is home to Beverly Beach State Park and the small town of Beverly Beach. It's hard to tell where Moolack Beach ends and Beverly Beach begins. A small stream called Wade Creek might be the dividing line.
The ocean's tides here are very strong, with the water level changing by almost 3 meters (10 feet). This means the sandy beach can sometimes disappear completely! At other times, it can be hundreds of feet wide. U.S. Route 101 runs right alongside the beach.
The name "Moolack" comes from a Chinook Jargon word. It means "elk." This area also has a very interesting history hidden in its rocks.
Geology of Moolack Beach
Moolack Beach is a great place to see ancient trees. You can find rooted stumps that are about 4,500 years old! These are trees that have turned into stone, also known as petrified wood.
One special type of petrified wood found here is called Teredo wood. It gets its name from tiny holes made by ancient "Teredo clams." These clams bored into the wood long ago. Other kinds of petrified wood at Moolack Beach include pine, alder, and myrtlewood. You might even find petrified oak and palm trees!
Weather at Moolack Beach
During the summer, Moolack Beach usually has warm days. Temperatures often reach around 15-20 degrees Celsius (60s Fahrenheit). Nights are cooler, dropping to about 5-10 degrees Celsius (40s Fahrenheit).
In winter, the temperatures are milder. They usually range from 0-15 degrees Celsius (30s to 50s Fahrenheit). December is the wettest month, with a lot of rain. July is the driest month, perfect for sunny beach days.
