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9 Things to Do: A Weekend Guide to Seaside Oregon


Rugged sea stacks rise from the waves under a soft, hazy sky on the Oregon coast near Seaside, creating a serene and dramatic seascape. Photo credit by: fineas.anton on IG.
Rugged sea stacks rise from the waves under a soft, hazy sky on the Oregon coast near Seaside, creating a serene and dramatic seascape. Photo credit by: fineas.anton on IG.

Weekend Guide to Seaside Oregon

Seaside, Oregon is the kind of town where classic beach charm meets easygoing adventure. Just 90 minutes from Portland, it’s a perfect weekend escape packed with ocean views, retro vibes, and walkable attractions. Whether you’re heading out for a solo recharge or a family getaway, this guide covers some of the best things to do, eat, and explore in Seaside.


1. Walk the Seaside Promenade

Start your visit with a stroll along the Promenade (locals call it “The Prom”), a 1.5-mile paved walkway hugging the coastline. You'll get sweeping Pacific views, access to the beach, and a perfect intro to the town’s vintage charm.


2. Visit the Seaside Aquarium

One of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast, the Seaside Aquarium offers hands-on marine exhibits and the chance to feed harbor seals—something both kids and adults love.

Address: 200 N Prom, Seaside, OR 97138

Hours: Daily 9am–5pm


3. Explore Broadway Street

This is the heart of downtown Seaside. It's lined with saltwater taffy shops, arcades, cafés, and gift stores. Grab an ice cream cone, pop into the Carousel Mall, or try your luck in the bumper cars.


4. Rent a Beach Cruiser

Head to one of the local bike shops and rent a beach cruiser or surrey to explore the town on two wheels. You can ride The Prom, cruise side streets, or even take a ride on the beach at low tide.


5. Hike Tillamook Head

Just a few minutes south of Seaside, the Tillamook Head trail offers coastal forest scenery and rewarding clifftop views. It’s a moderate 3.6-mile one-way hike that connects Seaside to Ecola State Park near Cannon Beach.


6. Watch the Sunset from the Beach

You can’t beat a Seaside sunset. Bring a blanket or beach chair and settle in for a slow, colorful close to the day. Local tip: find a spot near the turnaround at the end of Broadway for a great view.


7. Try Local Seafood at Norma’s

Norma’s Seafood & Steak is a long-standing local favorite known for its clam chowder, halibut fish and chips, and crab melts. Casual, cozy, and right off the Prom.

Address: 20 N Columbia St, Seaside, OR 97138

Hours: Daily 11am–9pm


8. Paddle the Necanicum River

Rent a kayak or paddleboard and drift down the peaceful Necanicum River. It's a relaxing way to see a different side of Seaside, with birdwatching and calm waters throughout.


9. Enjoy Breakfast at Osprey Café

A great way to start your day—Osprey Café offers fresh, hearty breakfasts with ocean views. Their chilaquiles and breakfast burritos get high marks, and the vibe is laid-back and local.

Address: 2281 Beach Dr, Seaside, OR 97138

Hours: Fri–Mon 8am–1:30pm

Website: ospreycafe.com



Final Thoughts on a Weekend Guide to Seaside Oregon

This weekend guide to Seaside Oregon covers just a slice of what makes this coastal town a beloved getaway. Whether you’re catching sunsets on the beach, feeding seals, or grabbing chowder after a long walk, Seaside has a way of slowing life down—in the best way. It’s relaxed, nostalgic, and full of small joys that turn a quick trip into lasting memories.

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