Seaside is a small coastal city located on the edge of the mighty Pacific Ocean in Clatsop County, Oregon. The city derived its name from an old summer house built in the 1870s by Ben Holladay, a renowned railroad mogul. In addition, Clatsop County’s name originated from Native American tribesmen who lived here – the Clatsop Tribe. The city has a total area of about 4.2 sq miles, of which 0.20 sq mile is submerged in water. The Pacific Northwest coastal climate dominates the region, which means lots of rainy winters and mild to cool summers. The transportation network in Seaside relies heavily on two major highways, US Route 26 and US Route 101.
The city is also served by the Seaside Municipal Airport and intercity bus system. Plans have been underway by the city authorities to develop a Transportation System Plan to back the existing transportation infrastructure. Seaside is unvaryingly known as the see-and-do capital of Oregon’s vast coastline. This means lots of family-friendly, and fun things to do along the beach front whilst enjoying the wonderful scenery that stretches many miles. The locale caters to all vacationers from those looking for all-inclusive vacations, romantic getaways, or those simply looking for some beachside fun. Seaside offers tons of classic beach boardwalk shops, some of the best seafood in the world, local breweries, and so much more! Check out our list below of 10 of our favorite things to do in or around Seaside!
What To Do When Visiting Seaside, Oregon
1. Arcadia Beach State Recreation Area
The area is strategically perched along the coastal line south of Cannon Beach. It provides breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. Since the area is less populated, miles of beaches are clearly visible for all to see. Some of the public amenities provided include a picnic area and restrooms.
2. Camp-18 Museum
Seaside’s rich legacy and history as a logging town are all evident in the magnificent camp museum. The sightings include vintage logging tools such as steam-powered bandsaw and logging rail car. The other attractions include a photo exhibition of various logging activities, past and present along with efforts to preserve the industry.
3. Seaside Promenade
A visit to Seaside is never complete without stepping foot at the city’s iconic promenade. The Seaside Prom as it is famously called features a boardwalk that stretches 1.5 miles off the magnificent Pacific Ocean. The structure was originally built in 1920s using wood, but it has since been upgraded and paved with concrete. This has made it an ideal spot for joggers and cyclist.
4. Seaside Museum and Historical Society
The building where the museum sits is a beautiful cottage house by the beachside. Visitor attractions here include a beautiful outdoor garden and photographs of ancient artifacts, Native American history of logging and hotels that have stood in different ages. Seaside Promenade is located on 570 Necanicum Drive.
5. Rent a Paddle Boat
Wheel Fun Rentals, the primary watercraft rental company in Seaside, has a launch site just under the 1st Ave. Bridge, near the Seaside Convention Center. The company offers paddle bikes, swan boats, 4 peddler boats, kayaks, and stand up paddle boards. Most options fall under $30 an hour and are an awesome option for people and families looking for some fun. Not interested in frolicking in the water? Wheel Fun Rentals has multiple locations in Seaside that also offer land cruiser. Choose from a classic Surry, regular bikes, two-person bikes, mopeds and more! The waterway boaters travel along passes under three bridges and offer up scenic sites including Great Blue Herons, marine life, and whatever you may come across on shore.
6. Ecola State Park
This sandy coastal beach park is also known as the Indian Beach is located in the serene beach area close to the popular Cannon Beach. It provides a perfect setting for hiking and escapes for the adventurous backpacker. The beach also has generous space for cooling off. The other attractions include; breathtaking views of the nearby rocky cliffs and far reaches of the ocean.
7. Lewis and Clark National Wildlife Refuge
This vast 30,000-acre wildlife refuge features numerous attractions including a 20 island stretch that is only accessible by boat along with a habitat consisting of tidal sands and forested swamps. The animal attractions include reptiles, mammals and birds such as waterfowl and gulls. The large swath of land in the refuge makes it highly ideal for wildlife observation, boating, and hiking.
8. Seaside Aquarium
The treasured Seaside aquarium is one of the oldest in the Pacific west coast. It opened its door to the public in 1924. Some of the attractions in the underwater tank include Giant Pacific Octopus and sunflower star among others. There is also a happy family of seals who enjoys the company of big crowds.
9. Play At The Seaside Beach
The Seaside beach lies on the edge of the Pacific Ocean about 18 miles south of where the Columbia River empties into the Pacific. The Necanicum River flows into the ocean on the northern edge of town and the popular hiking destination, Tillamook Head, towers over the ocean on the southern edge. Build a campfire, hop in the ocean, or rent a beach bike. The possibilities in Seaside are endless. Just a few steps off of Downtown and the famous “Prom” the coastline is easily accessible for all to enjoy. Visit during the clamming season and gain access to one of the most concentrated populations of razor clams in the world. Interested in seeing other marine life? Walk north of the turnaround and the Seaside Aquarium is a few steps away.
10. Seaside Carousel Mall
The Seaside Carousel Mall is a mall offering unique shopping from over 15 vendors. While some of the fun shops can be accessed via Broadway, the bulk lie inside of the little mall. There you can find a restaurant, coffee shop, old-time malt shop, a toy store, Seaside apparel and so much more. The concentration of fun inside the Carousel Mall makes for a must see on your visit to Seaside. So grab a friend and take a spin around the famous Carousel – you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.