It is centered on a large bowl naturally carved in a rock headland which is partially open to the Pacific Ocean.

[1] Outside the bowl, ocean conditions are attractive to surfers near a large offshore rock pinnacle named Gull Rock, located about 1⁄2 mile (800 m) west-northwest of Devils Punch Bowl, which funnels and concentrates waves easily seen from the park.

There are at least seventeen large rocks, part of Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, which provide interesting wave viewing, and attract and provide a home for wildlife.

The bowl is thought to have been created when two caves carved by the ocean collapsed.

The Civilian Conservation Corps installed a fresh water system, sanitary works, picnic tables, stoves, trails, and safety fences.