Slackwater Beach, also known as Nichols Basin Recreation Beach and locally called Frog Beach, offers Hood River's most family-friendly and beginner-accessible Columbia River beach experience in a protected calm-water basin shielded from the fierce Gorge winds that power the region's world-class windsurfing. Located just west of the Hood River mouth and accessible from Exit 63 off Interstate 84, this still-water lagoon sits protected by a sandy peninsula called the Spit that extends nearly half a mile into the Columbia River, creating tranquil conditions ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and wading even when strong winds whip the main Columbia channel into whitecaps. The Nichols Boat Basin was dredged in the early 1960s to provide marina facilities for Nichols Boat Works, and today the protected cove serves as a launch site for small non-motorized watercraft and a popular beach destination. A sculpture entitled N'ich'-Wana honors the Native Nations who used these rivers first, while a frog sculpture has led to the informal Frog Beach nickname, though locals prefer the Slackwater Beach or Nichols Basin names that better reflect the area's character and history.
Swimming at Slackwater Beach attracts families throughout summer when the protected basin offers warmer, calmer water than exposed Columbia River locations, with shallow areas perfect for children to wade and play safely away from strong currents. The basin's protection from wind and current creates Hood River's most beginner-friendly paddling location, ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking lessons, family paddling excursions, and those new to Columbia River water sports. The Spit's sandy beaches extend for exploration, sunbathing, and beachcombing, with shallow water stretching far from shore before reaching deeper channels, though users must exercise extreme caution as the shallow shelf ends abruptly with steep drop-offs and strong currents where the Hood and Columbia Rivers meet. Picnic tables at the parking area accommodate meals and gatherings with Columbia River Gorge views, and the area serves as a popular off-leash dog destination though current regulations may require leashes. Landscaped trails connect Nichols Basin to the broader Hood River Waterfront Trail system extending nearly two miles along the shoreline. The Spit provides access to both Columbia River and Hood River waters, creating opportunities for paddlers to explore both waterways from one launch point. Wildlife viewing includes waterfowl, ospreys, bald eagles, and great blue herons, with the protected basin attracting diverse bird species throughout the year. The beach offers spectacular viewing of windsurfers and kiteboarders on windier sections of the river, with colorful sails and kites creating dynamic displays against Mount Hood and Gorge scenery.
Hood River's downtown restaurants and waterfront dining sit within easy reach of Slackwater Beach. Riverside provides waterfront fine dining with Italian cuisine, fresh local ingredients, Oregon wines, and Columbia River views from breakfast through dinner service. pFriem Family Brewers serves Belgian-inspired craft beers, artisan pizzas, charcuterie boards, mussels, and pub fare in their contemporary taproom overlooking the river. Ferment Brewing Company offers an airy brewpub with outdoor seating, handcrafted ales, their famous fried chicken sandwich, burgers, and salads. Three Rivers Grill features Pacific Northwest fine dining including grilled salmon, steaks, pasta, and seasonal preparations with views of the Columbia, Hood, and White Salmon Rivers converging. Full Sail Brewing Company combines pioneering craft beers with casual brewpub food including burgers, fish tacos, and appetizers.
Slackwater Beach requires constant awareness of drowning dangers despite the protected nature of the basin, as shallow water ends abruptly at steep drop-offs with strong currents that can sweep swimmers into deep channels without warning. The area where the Hood River meets the Columbia creates particularly dangerous current patterns requiring extreme caution. No lifeguards patrol the beach and all swimming occurs at personal risk. Children require close constant supervision and should wear life jackets even in shallow areas given the sudden depth changes. The Spit's size and configuration change with Columbia River levels controlled by upstream dam releases, creating unpredictable conditions that can alter quickly. Wind conditions can develop rapidly in the Columbia River Gorge, transforming calm morning water into challenging afternoon conditions with whitecaps and waves. Paddleboarders and kayakers should stay within the protected basin until gaining experience, as venturing into the main Columbia channel exposes users to strong currents, wind, boat traffic, and dangerous conditions. Cold water temperatures even during summer create hypothermia risks with extended exposure. The beach area serves as a kiteboarding launch site during appropriate wind conditions, and beach users must remain aware of high-speed kiteboarders and give them wide clearance. Dogs should remain under control whether on or off leash. Parking areas include picnic tables, garbage cans, and pet waste stations. Slackwater Beach provides Hood River's most accessible family beach experience with protected swimming, beginner-friendly paddling, and calm water conditions ideal for children and those seeking refuge from the Columbia River Gorge's famous winds.
