2 Types of Octopus in Oregon
Yes, Oregon's coastal waters host several octopus species. The most commonly encountered is the Giant Pacific Octopus, but you can also find the smaller Red Octopus and the elusive Pacific Pygmy Octopus. Start your search in tidepools or on a scuba dive near rocky reefs and kelp beds.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 7, 2026.
- 2
- species recorded
- June, July, May
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
2 types of octopus recorded in Oregon
2 octopus species have a verified observation record in Oregon, each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
1
2
Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
157 verified observations on iNaturalist of octopus have been recorded in Oregon, most often in June, July, May.
When octopus are recorded in Oregon
Yes, Oregon's coastal waters host several octopus species. The most commonly encountered is the Giant Pacific Octopus, but you can also find the smaller Red Octopus and the elusive Pacific Pygmy Octopus. Start your search in tidepools or on a scuba dive near rocky reefs and kelp beds.
1. What is the most common octopus in Oregon?
The Giant Pacific Octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) is the species you are most likely to see. It ranges from intertidal zones down to depths of over 1,000 feet. Adults grow to 16 feet and weigh up to 110 pounds, making them the largest octopus species in the world. Start by looking in rocky crevices and under ledges along the Oregon coast.
See ourOctopuses guidefor the next step.
2. How can you tell the difference between common Oregon octopus types?
The easiest way to separate the main types is by size and color. Giant Pacific Octopuses are huge with a reddish-brown skin and large bulbous head. Red Octopuses (Octopus rubescens) are much smaller (arm span up to 20 inches) and have a deep red hue with distinctive white spots. Pacific Pygmy Octopuses are tiny (arm span under 8 inches) and often mottled brown or orange, hiding in empty shells.
See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
3. Where is each type of octopus most likely to be noticed?
For the Giant Pacific Octopus, check the rocky reefs and tidepools at low tide, especially around Cape Arago and Yaquina Head. Red Octopuses prefer sandy bottoms near rocks, often turning their color to blend in. Look for them while scuba diving at sites like the Oregon Coast Aquarium's open water exhibits. Pacific Pygmy Octopuses are most often found in shallow sandy areas, hiding in discarded bottles or shells.
See ourOctopuses typesfor the next step.
4. What is the best time of year to see octopuses in Oregon?
Octopuses are present year-round, but sightings peak from late spring through early fall when water temperatures are milder and visibility improves. Low tide during spring and fall produces the best intertidal viewing. Divers have the highest success in summer months when the water is calmest.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
5. Can I find octopuses in tidepools along the Oregon coast?
Yes, with caution. Giant Pacific Octopus juveniles occasionally turn up in tidepools, especially in the rocky shores of Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach and the tidepools at Boiler Bay. Look in deep crevices under large boulders. Red Octopuses are also common in shallow pools. Always check carefully and avoid disturbing the animals.
6. What behaviors should I look for to identify an octopus in the wild?
Watch for sudden changes in color and texture. Octopuses are masters of camouflage, so spotting them often requires patience. Look for a movement among rocks or a sudden jet of water. At night, a red beam of your flashlight may reveal an octopus out hunting. Giant Pacific Octopuses are known for using their arms to explore while hiding their body in a den.
7. Are there any invasive octopus species in Oregon?
Currently, no invasive octopus species are established in Oregon. The species you see are native and part of the healthy marine ecosystem. If you spot something unusual, report it to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife noting the size, color, and location.
8. What gear helps you identify octopuses safely?
A good pair of polarized sunglasses cuts glare and helps you see into deeper pools. For diving, a waterproof camera with macro settings is invaluable. I always carry a dive slate to note features. If you want to keep the memory alive at home, check out ourwildlife-themed tote bagsthat celebrate Oregon's marine life.
Octopus Kraken T-Shirt
A classic design that shows your appreciation for these intelligent creatures. Perfect for wearing on your next beach trip.Check Price and Availability
Octopus Joke T-Shirt
Lighthearted and comfortable, this tee makes a great conversation starter at tidepools or dive shops.Check Price and Availability
Reading Octopus, tea, coffee and books gift T-Shirt Bubble-free stickers
A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability
Octopus As Student T-Shirt with A Backpack and Apple
A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability
9. Frequently asked questions about octopus types in Oregon
**How many octopus species live in Oregon?** At least three common species: Giant Pacific Octopus, Red Octopus, and Pacific Pygmy Octopus. **Are octopuses dangerous?** They are shy and non-aggressive. Never grab one; they can bite in self-defense. **Can I keep an octopus as a pet?** Oregon requires a permit for capturing wildlife. Observe and photograph, but leave them in the wild.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Frequently asked questions
1. What is the most common octopus in Oregon?+
The Giant Pacific Octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) is the species you are most likely to see. It ranges from intertidal zones down to depths of over 1,000 feet. Adults grow to 16 feet and weigh up to 110 pounds, making them the largest octopus species in the world. Start by looking in rocky crevices and under ledges along the Oregon coast. See ourOctopuses guidefor the next step.
2. How can you tell the difference between common Oregon octopus types?+
The easiest way to separate the main types is by size and color. Giant Pacific Octopuses are huge with a reddish-brown skin and large bulbous head. Red Octopuses (Octopus rubescens) are much smaller (arm span up to 20 inches) and have a deep red hue with distinctive white spots. Pacific Pygmy Octopuses are tiny (arm span under 8 inches) and often mottled brown or orange, hiding in empty shells. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
3. Where is each type of octopus most likely to be noticed?+
For the Giant Pacific Octopus, check the rocky reefs and tidepools at low tide, especially around Cape Arago and Yaquina Head. Red Octopuses prefer sandy bottoms near rocks, often turning their color to blend in. Look for them while scuba diving at sites like the Oregon Coast Aquarium's open water exhibits. Pacific Pygmy Octopuses are most often found in shallow sandy areas, hiding in discarded bottles or shells. See ourOctopuses typesfor the next step.
4. What is the best time of year to see octopuses in Oregon?+
Octopuses are present year-round, but sightings peak from late spring through early fall when water temperatures are milder and visibility improves. Low tide during spring and fall produces the best intertidal viewing. Divers have the highest success in summer months when the water is calmest. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
5. Can I find octopuses in tidepools along the Oregon coast?+
Yes, with caution. Giant Pacific Octopus juveniles occasionally turn up in tidepools, especially in the rocky shores of Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach and the tidepools at Boiler Bay. Look in deep crevices under large boulders. Red Octopuses are also common in shallow pools. Always check carefully and avoid disturbing the animals.
6. What behaviors should I look for to identify an octopus in the wild?+
Watch for sudden changes in color and texture. Octopuses are masters of camouflage, so spotting them often requires patience. Look for a movement among rocks or a sudden jet of water. At night, a red beam of your flashlight may reveal an octopus out hunting. Giant Pacific Octopuses are known for using their arms to explore while hiding their body in a den.
7. Are there any invasive octopus species in Oregon?+
Currently, no invasive octopus species are established in Oregon. The species you see are native and part of the healthy marine ecosystem. If you spot something unusual, report it to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife noting the size, color, and location.
8. What gear helps you identify octopuses safely?+
A good pair of polarized sunglasses cuts glare and helps you see into deeper pools. For diving, a waterproof camera with macro settings is invaluable. I always carry a dive slate to note features. If you want to keep the memory alive at home, check out ourwildlife-themed tote bagsthat celebrate Oregon's marine life. ### Octopus Kraken T-Shirt A classic design that shows your appreciation for these intelligent creatures. Perfect for wearing on your next beach trip.Check Price and Availability ### Octopus Joke T-Shirt Lighthearted and comfortable, this tee makes a great conversation starter at tidepools or dive shops.Check Price and Availability ### Reading Octopus, tea, coffee and books gift T-Shirt Bubble-free stickers A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability ### Octopus As Student T-Shirt with A Backpack and Apple A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability
Keep exploring
More places to see octopus
More wildlife in Oregon