Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Your tires meet sand at the Avenue U turnaround, where the asphalt gives way to the kind of firm shore that has welcomed automobiles since the 1920s. Seaside Beach stretches north and south in a broad, flat ribbon, wide enough that you can stake your umbrella far from the tide line and still watch breakers foam white against grey-green water. The Turnaround itself—a concrete roundabout crowned by a bronze Lewis and Clark statue—anchors the town's mile-and-a-half boardwalk, called the Prom, where saltwater taffy shops and arcade bells compete for your attention. Families return here summer after summer because the beach demands no hiking boots or tide charts. Children dig moats in damp sand while parents set up camp chairs beside driftwood logs smoothed by decades of storms. The horizon often wears a veil of mist, and the wind carries the iodine tang of kelp and the distant bark of sea lions from nearby rocks. When the sun breaks through, it turns the wet sand into a mirror. Come evening, the beach transforms. Bonfire smoke spirals upward, strangers nod as they pass on sunset walks, and the lights of beachfront hotels blink on one by one. The Pacific crashes with a rhythm you feel in your sternum, and someone always has a kite aloft, even after dark, its tail snapping against the offshore breeze that never quite dies down.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Seaside Beach.
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Swimming at Seaside Beach requires caution year-round due to cold Pacific waters (typically 48-55°F), strong currents, and sneaker waves. The beach has no lifeguards on duty, and rip currents can be dangerous. Most visitors wade in shallow water or stick to beachcombing. The beach is excellent for walking, building sandcastles, and playing in the surf zone. If you do enter the water, never turn your back on the ocean, stay close to shore, and supervise children closely. Wetsuits are recommended for any extended water activities.
Seaside Beach is accessible year-round, with each season offering different experiences. Summer (July-August) brings the warmest, driest weather with temperatures in the 60s-70s°F, ideal for families, though it's crowded. Spring and fall offer milder crowds and decent weather, perfect for beachcombing and scenic walks. Winter features dramatic storm watching but expect rain and wind. The beach hosts popular events like the Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament in August. For the best balance of weather and fewer crowds, visit in June or September when conditions are pleasant.
Seaside Beach is located 80 miles west of Portland via US-26, about a 90-minute drive. The beach is easily accessible from downtown Seaside, with the famous Turnaround area at the end of Broadway Street offering convenient beach access. Public parking is available throughout town, including metered street parking and several public lots near the Promenade. The large 12th Avenue parking area provides free public parking. During summer, arrive early as parking fills quickly. The town is walkable, and the 1.5-mile Promenade provides excellent beach access along its entire length.
Seaside's downtown area, steps from the beach, offers numerous dining and lodging options. Broadway Street features casual eateries, candy shops, and the famous Pig 'N Pancake for breakfast. Seafood restaurants line the main streets, serving fresh Pacific catches. Lodging ranges from oceanfront resorts like the Seaside Oceanfront Inn to budget motels and vacation rentals. Many hotels offer direct beach access and ocean views. The town has grocery stores, arcades, aquarium, and souvenir shops. Most amenities are within walking distance of the beach, making it highly convenient for families seeking a classic beach town experience.
The Seaside Promenade is a iconic 1.5-mile paved boardwalk running along the beach, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking while enjoying ocean views. Built in 1920, it's a beloved landmark connecting the beach to downtown. The Turnaround, at Broadway's western end, is Seaside's most famous spot—a circular area marking the Lewis and Clark expedition's 1806 turnaround point. A statue and commemorative markers honor this history. The Turnaround serves as the town's central gathering place, surrounded by shops and restaurants, and is the starting point for most beach activities.
