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What began as an attempt to get a striking beach photo turned into a dangerous ordeal for three tourists in Oregon on Wednesday.
The group had made its way to remote Lost Boy Beach in Tillamook County when the incoming tide cut off their route back, leaving them stranded, authorities said.
The beach is difficult to access even under normal conditions. Visitors must make their way down a rocky trail and pass through a sea cave before reaching the secluded shoreline, according to The Oregonian.
According to Tillamook Fire Chief Jeff McBrayer, the visitors did not realize that the tide would cut off their way back to safety.
McBrayer said: “You have to ask a local or check a tide app on a phone for tide information.
“Because, when people are stranded there, we may not be able to get to them.”
The emergency response began at about 3:45 p.m., when officials were alerted that the group was stranded, the fire chief said.
With no cell service available, one of the tourists used a satellite connection to place a 911 call, prompting rescuers to head to the remote location, McBrayer said.
A drone sent over the area soon located the three tourists huddled on the last patch of land still above the rising water. The group had used bundles of sticks to spell out “SOS” as they waited for help.
Thankfully, the adventurous tourists had managed to get to the tiny stretch of shoreline, and although they were found cold and wet, hypothermia had not yet set in, according to authorities.
The fire department reached the stranded trio shortly after locating them, and rescuers helped them wade through rough waves with life vests on to allow them to walk safely out of the cove.
Thankfully, despite some bruises, all three tourists were unharmed.
McBreyer said he hopes the incident will lead people to be more cautious while exploring Oregon’s beaches.
Lost Boy Beach is a remote stretch of coastline in Tillamook County, Oregon, known for its rugged terrain and difficult access. Reaching the secluded beach requires navigating a rocky trail and passing through a sea cave, making conditions particularly challenging when tides begin to rise.
