Dave Danielson of Vancouver, Wash. took advantage of a series of low tides last year to photograph rocks and seagulls feasting on molted crabs shells at Smelt Sand Beach State Park in Yachats.
The first of the lowest tides of the year are starting this week along the Oregon coast, revealing some tidepool and rock wonders only able to be viewed a few months of the year.
This year’s super low tides will take place starting Wednesday through Saturday, and then around May 27, June 25 and July 24, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association. The dates in May and June offer the lowest tides of the year.
Tide tables for Yachats and Waldport are available on YachatsNews.
In the Yachats area, there is a low tide of -1.77 feet at 7:26 a.m. Wednesday, a low tide of -1.9 feet at 8:16 a.m. Thursday, a low of -1.74 feet at 9:09 a.m. Friday, and then -1.35 feet at 10:06 a.m. Saturday. These are 2 to 3 feet lower than typical low tides this time of year.
Tides vary from location to location, so be sure to check the tide tables for the area you’ll be in. Intertidal areas that become exposed during super low tides can reveal hidden treasures, unseen worlds or offer temporary access to normally inaccessible places. They can also be treacherous to navigate, with many slippery spots, sharp rocks and pools of standing water.
Those treading into intertidal areas also need to take great care not to injure or destroy the plants and animals that live there. Only step on rocks and don’t disturb any creatures.
