ABOUT TIDES AND TIDE CHARTS If you’re planning to visit any of Lincoln City’s beautiful beaches, it’s smart to understand the daily tides. On most days, there are two high and two low tides. During high tide, the water level rises higher up the sand on the beach; it recedes during low tide, revealing more of the beach. This is important for safety, so you don’t get stranded around a headland or on rocks, but it’s also handy if you’re planning to tide pool, beachcomb for rocks or dig for clams. Some days and on some beaches, the tidal swing isn’t very large, but it can be significant during certain times of the month and year. You can see the times of predicted local high and low tides on a handy tide chart, available online or in hotels and shops around town. On the chart, you’ll find the date listed and the times that the tides will be at their highest and lowest that day. It will also show the vertical height of the water, usually as measured against the average of the lowest low tide. Look at the range from low to high tide to understand how much the water will change that day. Remember that storms, wind and high wave action will also affect the beach conditions. Never turn your back on the ocean, and watch for sneaker waves. Stay safe and have fun! Did you know? You can search for purple varnish clams in Siletz Bay at low tide. FROM TOP: TIMOTHY REED; COURTESY OF OREGON STATE PARKS Clamming Tide pool EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 63
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