Public Access Returns to Lighthouse Beach

After more than five years of negotiations, court battles, and public advocacy, access to Lighthouse Beach near Charleston on the southern Oregon coast has been officially restored. The protracted legal dispute, which drew considerable attention and community involvement, was formally concluded when Coos County Courthouse recorded the final agreement on October 7, 2026.

Legal Milestone Marks End of Access Battle

The culmination of this beach access legal battle means visitors can now enter Lighthouse Beach unfettered, resolving issues that had cut off the community and tourists since 2021. The site, known for decades as a beloved destination for surfing, fishing, walking, and family gatherings, can continue to serve these roles for the public thanks to the restoration efforts.

Role of Local Groups and Surfrider Foundation

The Oregon chapter of Surfrider Foundation spearheaded the push for public beach access restoration, dedicating substantial advocacy and legal expertise. The group, on behalf of its Coos Bay Chapter, filed a lawsuit under a claim of prescriptive easement, asserting that longstanding public use established a legal right to the path at the southwest end of Lighthouse Way.

Community activism became highly visible with public campaigns, lawn signs, and t-shirts featuring the slogan “Free Lighthouse Beach.” The dispute also drew attention to ongoing issues of private property access intersecting with public coastal use.

Timeline of Events and Resolution

For generations, the southernmost trail down the cliff to Lighthouse Beach had been used by the community. In March 2021, this changed abruptly when barbed wire was strung across the path, a gate was installed, and earlier-constructed steps were removed, making access impossible. Discussions between local organizations and the O’Leary family, which owned the private property, reached an impasse, resulting in a series of lawsuits and countersuits.

The case ultimately went to trial in Coos County Circuit Court in 2023, and by 2025 the disputed path was reopened. This year, the process formally concluded after several signings and deed transfers. According to Surfrider Foundation’s Senior Oregon Policy Manager, Charlie Plybon, the State of Oregon accepted the deed transfer in August, the easement was established in September, and Coos County finally recorded the deed in October, officially ending the dispute.

New Ownership and Cooperative Maintenance

The restored beach and trail are now owned by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, though ongoing maintenance will be managed through collaboration between Coos County and local groups. The O’Leary family, previous landowners, constructed a new trail at their own expense to enable access. A coalition of community members and organizations is responsible for maintaining the path, ensuring the sustainability of public beach access into the future.

Community Effort and Legacy

Carmen Matthews, owner of 7 Devils Brewery Co. and a prominent Coos Bay Chapter member, played a leadership role in mobilizing support, drawing from a personal connection to the trail and local stewardship. Reflecting on the process, Surfrider Foundation’s Plybon called it “a marathon effort with many hands working tirelessly over the last half decade,” highlighting the grassroots mobilization that made a lasting impact on Oregon’s tradition of open beaches.

Lighthouse Beach Remains a Community Treasure

Lighthouse Beach, with scenic views of Cape Arago’s Chief’s Island and its well-used trails, stands as a testament to public advocacy and legal action upholding the right to enjoy Oregon coast beaches. The finalization of this agreement ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from one of the southern Oregon coast’s cherished natural spaces.

Source: beachconnection.net.