Attractions and places to see around Seaside offer a diverse range of experiences, blending historical significance with natural beauty. The area features an oceanfront, extensive beaches, and coastal headlands, alongside cultural sites and family-friendly entertainment. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks and natural features that highlight the region's unique landscape.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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I would have a look at the tide tables before planning a visit. There is a tidal pool where you can see fascinating marine life. Please don’t walk on any rocks anywhere here, it’s somebody’s home.
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The Oregon Coast Trail (OCT) is a long-distance hiking trail along the Pacific coast of the US state of Oregon. Follows the Oregon coast from the mouth of the Columbia River to the California border south of Brookings. The trail was founded in 1959 by Samuel N. Dicken, a University of Oregon geography professor, approved by the Oregon Recreation Trails Advisory Council in 1971, and developed and managed by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department as part of Oregon's state parks system. The official coast guide gives a length of 382 miles (615 km). About 39 percent of the route is on the beach, 41 percent is on paved roads and 20 percent is on hiking and dirt trails. However, private ferries can be arranged at some river mouths to shorten stretches of road. Walked in its entirety, connecting each hiking/beach section, the distance is approximately 425 miles.
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From the northern Tillamook Head Trail, hikers are treated to a dense - and wet - coastal rainforest. The town of Seaside, north of the trailhead, has an average of 194 days of precipitation per year and an average annual precipitation accumulation of more than 6 feet. So if you're heading here for a hike, be sure to pack your waterproof boots and perhaps bring a change of clothes if you expect to get wet and muddy. Although the hike is possible most of the year, you will encounter the least amount of mud and fog if you hike in summer. This route begins on the north side of Ecola, in the Elmer Feldenheimer State Natural Area. At the end of Sunset Boulevard look for the very clearly marked trailhead.
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Rain or shine, Seaside Cove is a must-see, whether you're a tourist or a local. It is a mix of sandy and rocky beach. There is plenty of parking and Seltzer Park is right across the street. There are public toilets and a shower to rinse off sandy feet. There are also plenty of benches for watching waves and people watching.
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Seaside Cove is a popular destination for surfers and is also located along the Oregon Coast Trail. Take some time to watch the waves hitting the round-shaped rocks - you might find colorful starfish between them. Seltzer Park is just on the other side of the road and has (picnic) benches, a drinking fountain and restrooms.
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Great spot to stop and watch the local surfers and catch a view of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse in the distance. Take some time to stroll down the beach and take photos of the sea stacks off Ecola Point to the south. Indian Point is to the north; however, getting there requires wading through both Canyon and Indian creeks.
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There is helpful information regarding the trail's history, and the arched entrance gives you the feeling of entering your own personal, magical coastal forest. If you want to avoid the park day use fee ($5), there is a public transportation site here.
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Great beach to take off your shoes and wiggle your toes in the sand. The Promenade can be busy with pedestrians and cyclists, and strolling along the waves off the path is an excellent way to enjoy the Pacific Ocean and the sounds of the seagulls. Keep an eye out for sand dollars while enjoying the small beach town of Seaside. This portion of Columbia Beach is part of 28 coastal towns along the Oregon Coast Trail (OCT), where hikers cross sandy beaches, make their way through lush forest corridors and traverse majestic headlands in the Pacific Northwest.
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Seaside offers many family-friendly options. You can explore the tide pools at Haystack Rock during low tide, or enjoy the sandy shores of Indian Beach and Seaside Cove. Beyond the beaches, the Seaside Aquarium is a popular choice for all ages, as is the whimsical Seaside Carousel Mall and the High Life Adventure Park with its obstacle course.
For stunning vistas, visit Haystack Rock, where you can observe puffins and marine life. Indian Beach offers great views of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. For panoramic coastal views, explore the trails at Tillamook Head, part of Ecola State Park, which Lewis and Clark noted for its 'grandest prospects.' Saddle Mountain also provides breathtaking views of the Coastal Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean from its summit.
Yes, there are several excellent trails. The Tillamook Head Trailhead offers historical information and access to a magical coastal forest. You can also find trails at Ecola State Park, like the Clatsop Loop Trail. For more options, check out the Running Trails around Seaside guide, which includes routes like the Oregon Coast Trail: Seaside Promenade.
Seaside is rich in history. The Seaside Promenade and Turnaround is a historic landmark with a statue commemorating the Lewis and Clark expedition. You can also visit the Lewis and Clark Salt Works, where the expedition produced salt. The Seaside Museum & Historical Society offers a deep dive into the town's past, including the Butterfield Cottage, which showcases pioneer life.
If you're looking for quieter spots, Crescent Beach is a beautiful secluded beach with fewer visitors, offering sea caves and a waterfall. The Necanicum Estuary, located behind Seaside High School, is also a peaceful spot for birdwatching with a boardwalk and viewing deck.
Many outdoor areas in Seaside are dog-friendly. Seaside Cove and Seltzer Park, Indian Beach, and Crescent Beach are all noted as dog-friendly. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.
Seaside offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Haystack Rock, you can spot puffins nesting from April to September, along with murres and cormorants. The Necanicum Estuary is excellent for birdwatching, particularly for Great Blue Herons. You might also see river otters while kayaking on Neawanna Creek.
Beyond hiking and beach activities like sunbathing and sandcastle building, Seaside offers surfing at Indian Beach and Seaside Cove. Kayaking on Neawanna Creek is a serene option. For cycling enthusiasts, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Seaside or the Cycling around Seaside guide for various routes.
Yes, the Gilbert District in downtown Seaside features art galleries and coastal shops in some of the oldest surviving buildings. You can also visit Painted Rock Beach, a unique spot where locals and visitors leave hand-painted rocks, creating an evolving outdoor art display.
While Seaside offers outdoor activities year-round, the warmer months from late spring to early fall (April to September) are generally best for pleasant weather for beach activities, hiking, and wildlife viewing, such as puffins at Haystack Rock. However, many trails and attractions are accessible in winter, though some can be muddy.
For coastal walks, it's advisable to dress in layers as weather can change quickly. Waterproof or water-resistant outerwear is recommended, especially for potential rain or sea spray. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are ideal for trails, as some, like the Tillamook Head Trailhead, can be muddy year-round. Don't forget a hat and sunscreen, even on cloudy days.


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