Exploring Seaside, Oregon: A Coastal Retreat

Seaside, Oregon, nestled along the stunning Pacific Northwest coast, is a captivating town that entices visitors with its scenic beauty, rich history, and an array of activities for everyone. A favorite getaway for those living in the Portland area, Seaside offers the perfect combination of beachside charm, delicious seafood, and a lively atmosphere, making it an unmissable coastal retreat. In this post, we’ll delve into what makes Seaside unique, its key attractions, and why we love Seaside!

Seaside: A Vibrant Coastal Haven

Located just 80 miles northwest of Portland, Seaside is a picturesque town that serves as an idyllic escape in all seasons. Known for its temperate maritime climate, Seaside experiences cool, breezy summers and mild, rainy winters, making it a year-round haven for beachgoers and nature lovers alike.

Seaside has a deep historical significance, dating back to the 1800s. It’s famously known as the final destination of the Lewis and Clark expedition in 1806. The town’s historical journey from a summer resort town to a thriving coastal community can be explored at the Seaside Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s evolution and the impact of tourism on its growth.

With a population of about 6,500 residents, Seaside swells with tourists, especially in the summer, drawn to its beautiful beaches, the iconic Promenade, and the plethora of family-friendly activities. We will explore each of these things that make Seaside unique, along with some of our favorite things about Seaside.

Seaside’s Unique Coastal Geography: A Distinctive Oregon Beach

Seaside’s main beach stands out as a distinctive gem among Oregon’s coastline, renowned for its vast, sandy stretches and unique geographical features. Unlike some of the rugged, cliff-backed beaches typical of Oregon, Seaside’s beach is characterized by its gentle, sloping sands, which extend generously from the edge of the town to the Pacific Ocean. This expansive sandy terrain sets it apart, offering a broad, flat surface that’s ideal for various recreational activities.

An Accessible Oregon Shoreline

One of the most striking aspects of Seaside’s beach is its gentle slope, which allows for a gradual and safe approach to the water. This feature is especially appealing to families with children and less experienced swimmers, as it provides a more controlled environment for enjoying the ocean. The gradual incline also means that at low tide, a wide expanse of the beach is exposed, creating vast areas for exploration and play.

A Coastal Oregon Town in Close Proximity to the Beach

Another unique aspect of Seaside’s beach is its proximity and seamless integration with the downtown area. While many Oregon coast beaches are separated from nearby towns by natural barriers or require a short drive, Seaside’s main beach is just steps away from the heart of the town. This easy access enhances the beach’s appeal, allowing visitors to effortlessly combine a day at the beach with dining, shopping, and other urban amenities.

Wide, Open Spaces

The wide-open nature of Seaside’s beach is also a significant draw. This spaciousness is ideal for activities that require more room, such as kite flying, volleyball, and other group sports. The beach’s ample space ensures it never feels overcrowded, even during peak tourist season, providing a sense of freedom and openness that enhances the experience of visitors.

The Pacific Ocean’s Majestic Views

Positioned along the northern Oregon coast, Seaside’s beach offers stunning, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. The horizon stretches far and wide, providing breathtaking sights of the ocean’s vastness. This panoramic view, combined with the rhythmic sound of the waves, creates a tranquil and mesmerizing atmosphere that is both rejuvenating and awe-inspiring.

Unique Sand Quality

The sand at Seaside’s beach is notably fine and soft, a contrast to some of the more pebbly or coarse sands found at other Oregon beaches. This fine sand is not only comfortable for barefoot strolls and sunbathing but also perfect for sandcastle building, providing just the right texture for both simple and elaborate creations.

The Seaside Promenade

Seaside’s Promenade, affectionately known as ‘The Prom’, is a beloved feature of the town. This 1.5-mile-long boardwalk, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, is perfect for leisurely strolls, bike rides, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets. Lined with charming beachfront homes and historical landmarks, The Prom is a window into the soul of Seaside.

Constructed in the 1920s, The Prom has been a centerpiece of Seaside’s charm for over a century, offering a picturesque pathway that mirrors the town’s evolution. Its construction marked a significant development in making Seaside a premier coastal destination, seamlessly blending the town’s progress with its natural beauty.

The Promenade is intertwined with the famed journey of Lewis and Clark, commemorating the explorers’ historic expedition that concluded near Seaside in 1806. This historical significance is honored at the Lewis and Clark monument located at the Prom’s famous ‘Turnaround’, where a statue of the explorers gazes out towards the ocean, symbolizing the end of their westward journey.

The Turnaround itself is an iconic feature of The Prom. Originally designed to allow cars to easily return downtown, it has evolved into a symbolic gateway between the town and the sea, offering a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. This spot is a favorite for photo opportunities, capturing the essence of Seaside’s picturesque landscape.

One of the most notable stops on The Prom, is the Seaside Aquarium, the oldest privately owned aquarium on the west coast!

The Seaside Aquarium

A visit to Seaside is incomplete without exploring the Seaside Aquarium, one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast. This family-friendly attraction allows visitors to get up close with marine life, including touch tanks where you can feel starfish and sea anemones. The aquarium is home to seals, who are always a hit with children and adults alike.

The aquarium’s focus on education and conservation provides insight into the marine ecosystems of the Oregon coast and the importance of preserving these natural habitats.

The Gateway to Downtown Delights

As the Seaside Promenade gracefully winds along the coast, it seamlessly transitions into the bustling downtown area of Seaside, a vibrant hub that captures the essence of this coastal town. This harmonious blend of seaside charm and urban vibrancy makes the journey from the serene walks on The Prom to the lively streets of downtown both effortless and delightful.

Downtown Seaside, just steps away from the end of The Prom, is a treasure trove of culinary delights, shopping, and entertainment. The area is renowned for its diverse dining options, ranging from quaint cafes serving fresh, locally-roasted coffee to upscale restaurants offering gourmet coastal cuisine. Seafood, a staple of the Oregon coast, is prominently featured in many menus, providing a taste of the freshest catch from the Pacific.

As we delve into the heart of Seaside, let’s discover the best dining spots, most charming shops, and must-visit attractions that make downtown Seaside a destination in its own right.

Seaside’s Culinary Scene

The culinary landscape in Seaside is as diverse as it is delicious. Here are some must-visit dining spots:

Osprey Cafe: This charming eatery presents a unique blend of American and international flavors, crafting each breakfast and lunch dish from scratch with the freshest ingredients. Step into their welcoming space, where the ambiance is as cozy and inviting as a morning hug. Not just a feast for your taste buds, Osprey Cafe also treats your eyes with their in-house baked pastries and desserts, each a masterpiece of sweetness. And let’s not forget their crowd favorites – the Salmon Scramble and strawberry pancakes, which have become the talk of the town.

Nonni’s Italian Bistro: This delightful bistro recreates classic Northern Italian dishes that transport you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Italy. Each meal is a labor of love, prepared with the finest meats, seafood, and fresh pasta. The ambiance, reminiscent of a cozy Italian home, welcomes you with open arms and the promise of a memorable meal. Their house-made sauces and pastas are the highlights at Nonni’s. As for a must-try, their Tiramisu and Panna Cotta are among the best desserts in Seaside and a perfect compliment to one of the best dining experiences in downtown Seaside.

Dooger’s Seafood & Grill: Dive into the heart of Seaside’s seafood scene at Dooger’s Seafood & Grill, a cornerstone of downtown dining since 1983. This beloved eatery offers a delightful array of oceanic treasures, from classic clam chowder and succulent salmon to exquisite lobster and fresh oysters. Complementing the seafood fare are American classics like burgers, steaks, and pastas. The ambiance of Dooger’s is relaxed and welcoming, mirroring the laid-back vibe of the Oregon Coast. With a commitment to serving the freshest and finest seafood, Dooger’s has become a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. For a more relaxed experience, grab some drinks on the backside of the restaurant at their adjoining bar that has an outdoor patio with signature cocktails but also shares the same full Dooger’s food menu.

A&B Pizza: Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Italy at A&B Pizza, a culinary jewel nestled in downtown Seaside. This pizzeria is a testament to the art of pizza making, where every pie is a masterpiece of taste and texture. As you step into A&B Pizza, you’re greeted by an ambiance that radiates warmth and casual charm, inviting you to relax and savor the moment. The pizzeria is celebrated for its perfect crust and fabulous flavors, with the sausage and mushroom, and the mushroom and arugula pizzas being particular crowd-pleasers. Each slice at A&B Pizza offers a delightful journey through the rich and robust flavors of Italy, making it a must-visit destination for pizza aficionados and casual diners alike.

Dundees Donuts: Experience a haven of traditional donut craftsmanship that harks back to the good old days, where each donut is meticulously handcrafted following time-honored recipes. From the classic, melt-in-your-mouth glazed donuts to the nostalgic jelly-filled delights, each offering is a testament to the mastery of traditional donut making. But the delights don’t stop there; their mouthwatering pastries include buttery croissants, flaky danishes, and sinfully sweet cinnamon rolls, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t forget to try their popular maple bacon bar!
Due to their small handcrafted batches, it’s wise to arrive early during peak seasons, like summer in Seaside, to ensure the best selection of their scrumptious creations and avoid missing out on these timeless treats.

Seaside Brewery: Step into an old-fashioned public house that’s perfect for connecting with others while indulging in a wide selection of micro-brews brewed on site. The founders of Seaside Brewery are dedicated to the craft of small-batch beer brewing, prioritizing quality over mass distribution, ensuring that each sip is a unique and flavorful experience. They take their passion for BBQ to the next level, smoking almost everything in their two 1000-gallon pits (from seafood, to brisket, ribs, and pork, and even vegetables and mushrooms) infusing their pub fare with mouthwatering, smoky goodness. With a rotating tap, it’s best to get a flight of beer and some pub fair. I have enjoyed their deliciously hoppy Sneaker Wave IPA but their real specialty is in making big malty porters, stouts, and tripels. The big flavor profiles pair perfectly with mouthwatering BBQ Brisket Sandwich while the beers like Marionberry Hefe or pale ales pair great with their delectable Beer-Battered Fish and Chips.

Unique Shops and Attractions in Seaside

Seaside’s downtown area is a treasure trove of unique shops, galleries, and attractions but also boasts some kid friendly places to keep everyone in the family happy. Here are some of the local attractions that make Seaside unique:

Seaside Candyman: A paradise for those with a sweet tooth, this shop offers over 180 varieties of licorice, handmade chocolates, and a vast selection of candies.
Beach Books: A local independent bookstore with a carefully curated selection, Beach Books is a cozy spot for book lovers.
Seaside Carousel Mall: A delightful shopping center with a working carousel at its center, this mall houses various boutiques, eateries, and a fun atmosphere for all ages.
Seaside Factory Outlet Center: For bargain hunters, the outlet center offers a range of stores with discounted goods, from clothing to home decor.
Seaside Antique Mall: With over 80 dealers, this antique mall is a haven for collectors and those looking for unique, vintage finds.
Funland: Experience endless fun at Funland, where you can enjoy classic arcade games, bumper cars, whale racing, and pizza. Kids will love playing the classic games to collect tickets to redeem for prizes!

Why We Love Seaside

We have explored what makes Seaside unique and it’s key attractions, but what we love most about a visit to Seaside is enjoying the great outdoors on this beautiful section of the Oregon Coast. We love walking on the Prom, walks on the beautiful beach, and of course, the hiking trails. Here are a couple of our favorite spots to explore.

Indian Beach Trail via Ecola State Park: One of our favorite hikes, this trail, starting from the Indian Beach parking lot atop Ecola State Park, meanders through a lush dense rainforest along a coastal ridge before descending to the secluded Indian Beach. Along the way, hikers can enjoy glimpses of the ocean, face some inclines for a bit of a workout, and tackle a steep decline to reach the beach. Take in the scenic views at Indian Beach before retracing your steps back up the ridge to your car.

Trail Length: approximately 4 miles out and back, 850 ft of elevation gain, about 2-3 hours to complete
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance to trailhead from Downtown Seaside: Approximately 11 miles or 23 minutes by car

Clatsop Loop Trail via Ecola State Park: This short loop hike from the Indian Beach parking lot hike goes up a steep incline to a beautiful lookout and Lighthouse. If you take the route counterclockwise, your incline will be up an old service road through the forest and your descent will be on the coastal side with views all the way down.

Trail Length: approximately 3 miles, 750 ft of elevation gain, about 2 hours to complete
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance from Downtown Seaside: Approximately 11 miles or 23 minutes by car

Lewis and Clark Discovery Trail: The Lewis and Clark Discovery Trail retraces the steps of Lewis and Clark during their historic expedition. Starting from the north, it gently climbs way up the ridge toward Ecola State Park and the Tillamook Head. As an out and back, you can turn around at any time, but if you choose to do the whole trail plan for a long day or park a second car at the other end.

Trail Length: approximately 14 miles, out and back, 3300 ft of elevation gain ,about 6-8 hours to complete
Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance from Downtown Seaside: Approximately 2.5 miles or 7 minutes by car

Saddle Mountain Trail: Saddle Mountain Trail is a challenging hike leading to a rewarding summit with breathtaking views. On clear days, you can see the Pacific Ocean, Columbia River, and distant mountains. Saddle Mountain is the tallest peak in the northwestern Oregon and a popular hike in May and June for its plentiful blooming wildflowers.

Trail Length: approximately 5 miles out and back, 1700 ft of elevation gain, about 4 hours to complete
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Distance from Downtown Seaside: Approximately 20 miles or 40 minutes by car

Oswald West State Park – Cape Falcon Trail: The Cape Falcon Trail in Oswald West State Park offers a picturesque journey through coastal rainforest, ending at a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the ocean. The trail winds along cliffs with unforgettable coastal vistas.

Trail Length: 4.5 miles out and back, 580 ft of elevation gain, about 2-3 hours to complete
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance from Downtown Seaside: Approximately 18 miles or 23 minutes by car

Neahkahnie Mountain Trail: The Neahkahnie Mountain Trail leads hikers through forests and meadows to a summit boasting some of the best coastal views in Oregon. From this vantage point, you can take in sweeping vistas of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The trail from the south is the more maintained of the two that lead to the summit, whereas the North Neah-Kah-Nie trail is slightly longer and less maintained with more views on the way up. Either way up, expect some steep sections and a scramble to the very top of the summit.

Trail Length: 3.6 miles out and back, 1100 ft of elevation gain, about 2 to 3 hours to complete
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance from Downtown Seaside: Approximately 20 miles or 26 minutes by car

Seaside Oregon is a wonderful day trip or vacation destination from the Willamette Valley or Portland area. Its combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and a wide range of activities make it an ideal coastal retreat. Whether you’re in the mood for beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, Seaside has something to offer for every type of traveler.