If you’ve spent any time researching Lincoln City, you’ve probably come across the D River Recreation Site. Located where Devil’s Lake meets the Pacific Ocean, this small but iconic park is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Oregon Coast.
Whether you’re looking for easy beach access, a place to fly a kite, watch the sunset, or simply enjoy the view, the D River Recreation Site is usually one of the first stops visitors make. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
What is the D River Recreation Site?
Right next door to D Sands, the D River Recreation Site is a public park and beach access area located along Highway 101 in the heart of Lincoln City. It sits at the mouth of the D River, which connects Devil’s Lake to the Pacific Ocean.
The site features:
- Easy beach access
- Public parking
- Restrooms (when open)
- Picnic areas
- Beach viewpoints
- Access to miles of sandy shoreline
Its central location makes it one of the most convenient places to reach the beach, whether you’re visiting for an afternoon or spending several days in Lincoln City.
Current construction update
If you’re planning a visit, it’s important to know that the D River Recreation Site is currently closed for the 2026 season while the City of Lincoln City builds a brand-new Lincoln City Visitor Center.
The project will modernize the area with updated visitor amenities and create a new welcome center for travelers exploring the Oregon Coast. While construction is underway, public access through the recreation site is temporarily unavailable.
Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check the City of Lincoln City’s website for the latest construction updates and reopening information.
Lincoln City’s most popular beach access point
When the recreation site is open, it’s consistently one of the busiest and most popular beach access points in Lincoln City—and for good reason.
The location offers quick, easy access to the wide sandy beach, making it a favorite for:
- Families with young children
- Beachcombers
- Sunset watchers
- Kite flyers
- Dog walkers
- Visitors wanting a short walk from nearby hotels, restaurants, and shops
Because it’s located near the center of town, it’s often the first beach many visitors experience during their stay.
Home of the Lincoln City Kite Festival
The D River Recreation Site is the longtime home of the Lincoln City Summer Kite Festival, one of the city’s signature annual events. Every summer, thousands of visitors gather here to watch professional kite demonstrations, giant inflatable kites, precision stunt flying, and family-friendly activities.
The festival was temporarily relocated this year while construction of the new Lincoln City Visitor Center is underway. Once the project is complete and the recreation site reopens, the festival is expected to return to its traditional home at the D River Recreation Site.
Even outside of festival weekends, the steady ocean breeze makes this one of the best places in Lincoln City to fly a kite.
Home of the famous D River
One of the biggest attractions is the D River itself. Flowing between Devil’s Lake and the Pacific Ocean, the D River has long been known as one of the shortest rivers in the world. Although advances in mapping technology have identified even shorter rivers elsewhere, it remains one of Lincoln City’s most famous landmarks and a favorite photo stop for visitors.
The river’s appearance changes throughout the day with the tides, creating a constantly changing landscape that’s fun to watch.
Beachcombing and glass floats
The beach at the D River Recreation Site is a favorite spot for beachcombing. Depending on the season, you might find seashells, agates, driftwood, sand dollars, and other coastal treasures washed ashore.
It’s also a great place to begin your search for one of Lincoln City’s famous Finders Keepers glass floats. While glass floats can be hidden anywhere along Lincoln City’s seven miles of public beach, the D River Recreation Site is a popular starting point thanks to its easy beach access and central location.
Whether you’re setting out specifically to hunt for a hand-blown glass float or simply taking a stroll along the shoreline, you never know what you might discover.
Sunset views
Few places in Lincoln City make it easier to catch a sunset than the D River Recreation Site.
With wide-open views of the Pacific Ocean, it’s a favorite gathering place in the evenings. Bring a blanket, take a walk along the shoreline, or simply enjoy watching the sun disappear beyond the horizon.
Every sunset is different, making it worth returning night after night.
Stay just steps from the D River Recreation Site
One of the best ways to experience the D River Recreation Site is by staying at D Sands Rentals.
Located directly next door, D Sands puts you within walking distance of one of Lincoln City’s most popular beach access points. Even while the recreation site is temporarily closed for construction, you’ll still have easy access to the beach from our own private staircase, plus panoramic oceanfront views right from your condo.
Every stay includes:
- Private oceanfront balcony
- Full kitchen
- Spacious living area
- Self check-in with your own door code
- Comfortable accommodations for couples, families, and groups
- Access to our indoor heated pool and hot tub
When the new Lincoln City Visitor Center opens, D Sands guests will once again be staying next door to one of the city’s most visited landmarks and the home of the Lincoln City Summer Kite Festival.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a relaxing escape to the Oregon Coast, D Sands Rentals offers one of the best locations in Lincoln City—just steps from the beach and the iconic D River Recreation Site. Plan your visit with us today!
Book Your Next Vacation
Browse our entire selection of rentals today and find the perfect match for your vacation!
