The Perigean Spring Tide, commonly known to Oregonians as the King Tides, took place for the first time of the season on Nov 15-17. They will also occur in mid-December and in January. These are a natural occurrence described by higher than usual tides. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, a King Tide is a non-scientific term people often use to describe exceptionally high tides, which are determined by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun as these bodies interact with the Earth in their monthly and yearly orbits. The tides are also tied into the moon cycle; higher than normal tides typically occur during a new or full moon.
Shore Acres State Park just south of Coos Bay is one of the most popular spots in the state to watch King Tides. When paired with a storm, photographers can snap iconic photographs of the ocean exploding onto the rocks of the shoreline. Those seeking a thrill can find several points where the ocean will spray on them after breaking on the rocky cliffs.
“It was really fun to ride on it,” says Asia Hodges, a freshman at Marshfield High School, who went canoeing with her family during king tides, and was eventually struck by a high wave.
Although it is important to practice ocean safety while the tides are high, not all experiences are as frightening as Hodges’.
“I like it when I feel the spray hit me and it comes really high,” said Susan Klemenhagen, who likes to visit Shore Acres during King Tides. “I’ve seen them a number of times and it’s always fun–it’s especially beautiful.”
She has friends and family who join her in visiting Shore Acres to watch the waves, who appreciate the unique aspect the tides bring to Oregon culture.
“Ya, it’s a good time y’know it’s a good way to reset your life, relax, bring up your coastal upbringings,” said Nick Klemenhagen, Susan Klemenhagen’s son.
While some people may want to see them up close, it is advised to watch them from a distance. Rules of the beach typically include never turning your back to the ocean and always using the buddy system. The National Weather Service urges people to stay off and away from large logs and debris fields that are anywhere near the surf line or below the high-water marks. Sneaker waves are powerful unexpected waves that are dangerous and claim about four lives a year, and injure many more. If King Tides collide with a storm, the ocean can be even more unpredictable, so viewers need to remain vigilant for safety.
But not everything about the King Tides is dangerous. According to the Oregon Coast Visitors Association King Tides are often studied by scientists so they can learn more about the rising sea levels on the Oregon coast, as well as the impact of tides on the shorelines and communities nearby.
If heading out to visit the King Tides in December, look to areas like Shore Acres State Park, or Depoe Bay, and Cape Perpetua area, which are both north of Coos Bay. Follow any closure signs, as the tides often wash out beach areas and waves will cover trails in some areas. Simpson Beach, below Shore Acres, is often off limits during the high tide events. Signage is there for visitor safety, so heed any warnings. Also, stay behind fences, and in marked areas only. It is common this time of year to see videos of people being swept out to the ocean in an unexpected sneaker wave, proving that it is best to behold nature’s beauty from a safe distance.