seaside trip

13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Seaside, OR

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 23, 2023

Author Brad Lane lives in Portland, Oregon, and enjoys frequent trips to Seaside and the coast.

The city of Seaside has attracted families and ocean goers for more than a century. Much of what has drawn tourists to this oceanside city for the last 100 years still stands today, including the historic 1.5-mile boardwalk known as the Seaside Promenade . And less than a two-hour drive from Portland, it has grown into one of the most popular getaway destinations from Portland .

The Seaside Promenade is a fun and free thing to do in Seaside for the whole family. It connects the beach to other iconic tourist attractions, including the Seaside Aquarium and Seaside Turnaround, two of the top attractions on the Oregon coast .

Beach Activities: The real excitement of Seaside comes from its wide and welcoming beach adjacent to the city. This sprawling stretch of sand is backdropped by the impressive Tillamook Head , and ranks among the best beaches on the Oregon coast .

Before booking your next vacation, be sure to check out Seaside's activities calendar to line up your visit with one of the many festivities happening downtown or at the beach. And for more ideas on places to visit, read our list of the top attractions and things to do in Seaside, Oregon.

Seaside Promenade

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The Seaside Promenade has been a central attraction of Seaside for more than 100 years. It stretches for 1.5 miles and separates the city from the sandy shore, offering an easy pathway to enjoy the coastal scene. Simply strolling this concrete pedestrian path and taking in the ocean environment is a fun and free thing to do in Seaside.

Numerous other attractions stem from the Promenade, which is just one of the reasons Seaside is considered one of the top small towns on Oregon's coast . Other cultural attractions include the Seaside Aquarium , the Historical Society Museum , and the downtown district.

Expect some good people watching on "The Prom" come summer, and if the foot traffic ever becomes too thick, it's easy to hop off and access the bountiful Seaside beach.

While all times of day give good reasons to visit, the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean from the Seaside Promenade makes for great vacation memories. Early morning on the promenade features the least amount of foot traffic. Much of the walkway is illuminated after dark for some evening entertainment.

Hands down one of the best beaches on the Oregon coast , the beach at Seaside is wide, welcoming, and backdropped by the beautiful Tillamook Head. From sunrise to beyond sunset, activity abounds on the beach throughout the summer.

Despite the large crowds that flock to the shore, it's never hard to find plenty of space to lay a towel down or build an extravagant sandcastle with so much sandy real estate available. To really find a spot of your own, simply traveling north or south from the main access point of the beach lets you ditch the crowds in no time.

Some of the most exciting times on the beach occur during the major events hosted by the city each year. The Hood to Coast Relay in the summer has its finish line in the sand near the water, and the world's largest amateur volleyball tournament takes place here each August, with more than 1,000 teams competing.

Come winter, the beach is much less populated, but the weather watching really picks up during this wild and often quieter time of year.

The Seaside Turnaround is at the end of Broadway Street—the main street running through downtown. A massive and hard-to-miss Lewis and Clark Statue is the centerpiece attraction of this historic location, designating the end of the 3,500-plus-mile Lewis and Clark Trail. The statue speaks to a dramatic time in history as the two explorers met the ocean.

The Seaside Turnaround is a perfect spot for a photo opportunity and a great place to overlook the beach. It's also an easy spot to access the beach , with stairs leading down to the sand from the Turnaround. The Turnaround also easily connects to the Seaside Promenade, spanning in both directions from the cul-de-sac.

The overall energy of Seaside emanates from the Turnaround, touching on the town's tourism, history, and beach culture.

While cars can use the historic turnaround, drivers should expect slow-moving traffic and tons of pedestrians on any nice day of the year.

Established in 1937, the Seaside Aquarium is now one of the oldest institutions of its kind on the west coast. The water tanks within the facility give a great view of the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean nearby. And, the touch tanks and user-friendly microscopes of the Discovery Center provide even more ocean habitat to dive into.

One of the most popular species of sea animals to interact with at the aquarium is the Seaside Harbor Seals , who are always happy to put on a show for visitors young and old. A few animals you can interact with in the aquarium's touch tank include an octopus and eels.

The aquarium is accessible from the Seaside Promenade and is open every day of the week except on major holidays. It's popular throughout the year, but it's a particularly bustling place to visit on a rainy day in Seaside.

Address: 200 North Promenade, Seaside, Oregon

The colorful downtown district of Seaside combines history, tourism, and fun events for the whole family to enjoy, making it one of coastal Oregon's best small towns . It stretches between Highway 101 and the ocean on Broadway Street, with restaurants, arcades, and other amusements lining the entire way.

The Necanicum River Estuary divides Downtown Seaside, with the Necanicum Bridge connecting both sides. On the east side of the estuary, the Gilbert Historic District is home to some of the oldest surviving buildings in Seaside. Alongside this history, this area of downtown is also packed with art galleries and coastal shops.

On the west side of the estuary, family-friendly attractions and restaurants line Broadway Street and easily catch the eye. Arcade parlors, seafood restaurants, and fun places like Seaside Inverted Experience appeal to families and tourists in this lively section of downtown.

At the end of Broadway Street is the famous Seaside Turnaround and the beginning of the Seaside Promenade. This area lends easy access to the beach after exploring the downtown streets.

Special events pack the downtown activity calendar each year. Among the festivities are a Muscle and Chrome Car Show in summer and a bluesy Halloween party in the fall.

Seaside Inverted Experience offers a fun photo opportunity just off the beach. Inside this downtown attraction, different rooms depict various settings that make for a unique background on a fun family souvenir photo. Rooms at Inverted Experience include a saloon, kitchen, and promenade all with a unique twist: they are all upside down.

This means when visitors have their pictures taken, and they flip the photograph, an upside-down world and a unique snapshot are created. Great as a family keepsake worth a frame, or a fun portfolio picture that depicts a unique experience, Inverted Experience is a low-cost, family-friendly thing to do in Seaside.

Address: 111 Broadway Street, Seaside, Oregon

Camp 18 is a popular roadside restaurant and so much more. It's just over 20 miles east of Seaside Beach on the Sunset Highway (Highway 26), and alongside extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings, this rustic log cabin restaurant is also a museum dedicated to Oregon's logging history.

Vintage logging machinery surrounds the restaurant, as well as informative placards detailing their role in the industry. A large collection of intricate wood carvings is also on the front porch and on the grounds. The restaurant is also famous for its "logger"-style meals, including large portions and dinner-plate-sized cinnamon rolls.

The restaurant offers plenty of parking, including designated RV spaces. It is open seven days a week most of the year, with more limited hours in the winter.

Address: 42362 US Highway 26, Seaside, Oregon

Tillamook Head is the defining coastal backdrop just north of the city, home to one of the best hikes on the Oregon coast . It's part of the larger Ecola State Park , and this sprawling headland and public space offer a lot to explore. While simply admiring the impressive promontory from the beach is a scenic experience, hiking through the coastal foliage is where the real fun is found.

Visitors access the Tillamook Head trailhead on Sunset Boulevard with a long beach walk, short drive, or fun ride on the Seaside Streetcar . From the trailhead, it's approximately a 1,000-foot ascent to the top, spread out over 4.4 miles. The walk up isn't necessarily easy for anyone, but the trail is well trodden, and the views are worth it.

One of the best campgrounds on the Oregon coast is also found at the top. This backpacker's site is free for anyone willing to hike in their gear to spend the night. A great view of the retired Tillamook Rock Lighthouse also awaits anyone who makes the hike to the top.

For the past, present, and future history of Seaside, the Seaside Historical Society Museum tells the entire story under one roof. Exhibits at the museum span native inhabitants of the region to more recent logging endeavors in the area, with a large focus on Seaside's emergence as one of the first resort cities on the Pacific coast.

A wide variety of artifacts, historical photos, and detailed dioramas add depth to each exhibit at the Seaside Historic Society Museum. The museum is open to the public Monday through Saturday between 10am and 3pm. Admission is by donation.

The adjacent Butterfield Cottage is also operated by the historical society. This historically renovated cottage lends insight on beach life in 1912.

Tours of the cottage take place during the museum's normal operating hours. The Historical Society Museum also sponsors many family-friendly events throughout the year , including a much-anticipated Fourth of July Old Fashioned Social.

Address: 570 Necanicum Drive, Seaside, Oregon

Ascending more than 1,600 feet in under three miles, the trail leading to the summit of Saddle Mountain requires some effort and careful foot placement. The view at the top is rewarding though, revealing the Cascade Mountains , the Columbia River, and miles of Pacific Ocean shoreline.

The mountain and trailhead are approximately 20 miles east of the downtown district. Variable conditions exist at Saddle Mountain, including wind, fog, and rain. If prepared for these elements, they can really add to the adventure experience. For a great view without climbing to the top, the much shorter Humbug Mountain viewpoint trail is an easier alternative nearby.

This historical landmark is an interesting and free thing to do near the Seaside Promenade . The historic Salt Works gives insight on the life and trials of the Corps of Discovery. It's hard to imagine the need and struggle for salt in current times, but it was quite the process to secure during the winter of 1805 to 1806.

Expedition members of the Corps of Discovery spent that winter at this historical location, boiling seawater for salt to spice and preserve their food. It's one of many sites operated by Lewis and Clark National Historic Park spread across the coast, and one of the smallest.

Plan some time to visit Fort Clatsop , 15 miles north near Astoria , for more insight into Lewis and Clark.

Other nearby state parks with a touch of Lewis and Clark history include Ecola State Park to the south and Cape Disappointment State Park across the Columbia River in Washington.

Read More: Best State Parks in Oregon

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife oversees Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area , established in 1969. This wildlife refuge aims to protect the habitat of native fauna of the region, including a population of Roosevelt Elk.

The refuge is a 30-minute drive from the coast, offering visitors many opportunities to see animals thanks to strategically placed viewing areas throughout. These viewing platforms attract birdwatchers throughout the year.

For many, the real reason to visit is the large population of Roosevelt elk that call the park home during winter. Between November and April, visitors can expect to see herds of at least 200 elk utilizing the open space, making for quite the sight for wildlife enthusiasts. Bring binoculars or a zoom lens for better views.

Seaside Outlets offers another popular shopping experience close to downtown. This collection of outlet stores is less than a mile north of downtown on the east side of the 101, with ample parking available. It's a popular place to visit to simply wander and see what catches the eye.

A few big-name stores at Seaside Outlets include Eddie Bauer, Pendleton, and a Nike Factory Outlet Store. Like any outlet mall, expect more affordable prices than traditional shopping malls.

Other popular stores include Famous Footwear, Helly Hansen, and Bath & Body Works. Seaside Outlet is also home to a few dining opportunities, including the popular Legends Public House.

Address: 1111 N Roosevelt Dr #202, Seaside, Oregon

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More on the Oregon Coast: Once you have finished exploring Seaside, other great small towns on the Oregon coast are equally worth your attention. The hip atmosphere and culture of Astoria hits you as soon as you step foot on the Riverfront, and places like the Oregon Coast Aquarium make for great additions to the top attractions of Newport .

A stay at one of the beautiful beach resorts is a nice way to experience the coast.

Other Adventures in Oregon: Oregon is stacked with all sorts of adventure outlets. From amazing areas like Mount Hood National Forest to other inland cities like Salem or Eugene , something fun to do is never hard to find. A great starting point is our list of Oregon's best hiking trails , which is complimented nicely by some of the best campgrounds found throughout the state.

Once you've explored the trails and tent sites, the beautiful hot springs and waterfalls in Oregon provide even more avenues for adventure.

More on Oregon

20 TOP Things to Do in Seaside, Oregon

Seaside, Oregon, tucked in the northern corner of the state, is a perfect place to have it all. A stroll on the promenade will acquaint you with the charming beachside town, and the eateries will fuel you for the adventures that await.

From excellent surf to epic hiking trails and historical forts to incredible wildlife, here are some of the best things to do in Seaside, Oregon!

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Table of Contents

1. Be a Bum at Seaside Beach

2. hike the tillamook head national recreation trail, 3. stroll beside the ocean on the seaside promenade walk, 4. discover fort stevens state park, 5. explore hug point state park, 6. grab a beer at sisu brewing company and times theater & public house, 7. visit ecola state park, 8. kayak along seaside’s scenic waterways, 9. shred some waves at various spots around seaside, 10. see one of oregon’s most famous landmarks at cannon beach, 11. enjoy the peace and quiet of necanicum estuary natural history park, 12. camp on the beach at del rey beach state recreation site, 13. reconnect with nature at cullaby lake county park, 14. take to the water at quatat park, 15. watch for wildlife, 16. check out the rocks at painted rock beach, 17. have a chill beach day at arcadia beach state recreation site, 18. enjoy some family time in downtown seaside, 19. indulge in seaside’s foodie scene, 20. marvel at the view from the summit of saddle mountain, accommodation & camping around seaside, oregon, 15 adventurous things to do in lincoln city, 11 adventurous things to do in astoria, oregon, 11 adventurous things to do in pacific city, 13 adventurous things to do in newport, oregon, 11 most scenic oregon coast towns (and what to do there), things to do in seaside, oregon.

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When the weather cooperates, one of the best things to do in Seaside is to beach bum.

The town’s beach is a wide, soft, sandy expanse—perfect for all those classic beach day activities like sun tanning, sand combing, sand castle building, and just relaxing! To the left, there are even some great mountain views to keep your eyes entertained.

There are also fewer crowds here than at most other much-loved Oregon beaches , so if you want to have a real Oregon beach day, this is a great spot for it. There are some good facilities like showers, picnic tables, and restrooms, so spend a few hours or the whole day bumming it!

Distance: 12.6 miles Type of Trail: Out & Back Difficulty: Moderate Elevation Gain: 1350 feet

The Tillamook Head National Recreation Trail is a 12.6-mile out-and-back trail. This incredible trail takes you all the way to Tillamook Head via Ecola State Park, starting at the car park of Indian Beach.

The path starts out wide and graveled, but before long, you’ll head into old-growth spruce and alder woods. The dramatic hike will take you all the way to the thousand-foot cliff of Tillamook Head, overlooking the craggy islands below. 

Looking out to sea, you should be able to spot ‘Terrible Tilly,’ a lighthouse sitting on a rock just off the coast, getting its name from repeatedly getting hit by battering storms.

After getting your fill of the views from the cape’s tip, you could make the short detour to Clarks Point of View Viewpoint for a different perspective of the landscape.

RELATED: 11 Oregon Lighthouses & The Adventures Nearby

More of a stroll than a hike, the promenade walk is still one of the most popular things to do in Seaside, Oregon. This longstanding favorite is a 1.5-mile paved walkway along the ocean, making for a lovely way to start the day or watch an evening’s sunset. 

With the sea on one side and charming oceanfront cottages on the other, it is a picture-perfect place for a walk or cycle. Along the prom, there are many different places where you can access the beach and dunes.

The prom has been around since the 1920s and has been a popular town attraction since. There is parking close by and plenty of benches for you to enjoy a coffee from one of the many coffee shops. There are also many lodging options and places to grab a bite to eat.

RELATED: 11 Stunning Things To Do on the North Oregon Coast

Fort Stevens is often described as one of Oregon’s best state parks , making it a must-see while visiting Seaside. The park is nestled in the northwest of the state, at the mouth of the Columbia River, and has enough to do and see to last at least a few days.

Spanning 4,300 acres, there is enough room for everyone. Two of the biggest human-made attractions in the park are the shipwreck that lies hauntingly on the beach and the primary military defense system on the Columbia.

When it comes to natural attractions, you’ll be spoilt for choice – it’s where the sea, forest, and river collide. Miles of trails wind their way around the forests, over towering dunes, and along the coast, and there is also a network of paved, mostly leveled-out biking trails for keen cyclists.

This also happens to be one of our favorite state parks to camp at; it’s huge, too!

READ MORE: Your Guide to Fort Stevens State Park

Hug Point is one of the most scenic spots on the Oregon Coast. Covering 43 acres, it is relatively small, but there is a lot packed into a small space.

One of the main attractions here is the beautiful seasonal waterfall that cascades right down onto the beach. With a bit of a scramble, you can reach the reservoir above.

The Pacific’s pounding waves have also carved out several explorable caves, cliffs, and tide pools, including the famous Haystack Rock you’ll see down the way.

Once you get hungry, hunker down at one of the picnic tables and grab a bite to eat before going off to explore the other things to do in Seaside, Oregon. We stop here for a good leg stretch every coastal road trip we take.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Hug Point State Recreation Site

Sisu Brewing Company is one of our favorite breweries in Oregon, and it’s one of the best things to do in Seaside!

The brewery is hidden away inside the old Times Theater, which has an old movie theater screen. While it’s definitely more of a place to eat and drink nowadays, the brewery still plays movies at 9 o’clock most nights, and during the day, it’s all about sports.

The food is great, and you can wash it down with a tasty lager (which is what the brewery specializes in). They also have other options, so it’s not just for light beer lovers. You can pick from movie theater-style seating or grab a regular table or a spot at the bar.

Beautiful Ecola State Park perches dramatically on the edge of Tillamook Head and is a hiking and sightseeing Mecca. It is one of the most beautiful things to do in Seaside, Oregon, and one of our favorite state parks on the Oregon coast !

It is home to one of Oregon’s most famous viewpoints, overlooking the many beaches, coves, rock formations, and capes that run for many miles to the south.

There are tons of easy walking trails that provide access to yet more stunning vantage points, such as Tillamook Lighthouse, sitting on a lone rock just offshore.

In terms of hiking, the park contains an 8-mile stretch of the Oregon Coast Trail, and Indian Beach also connects to the 2.5-mile Clatsop Loop Trail.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast

For those who love getting out on the water, the prime spot for kayaking near Seaside is on the Necanicum River. While on the water, you have a good chance of spotting some local wildlife, so watch out for elk, beaver, otters, and any number of migratory sea birds.

There’s another kayak launch at Broadway Park (one of the oldest in the city), but you’ll need to watch tide levels and they can get quite low. If you don’t have your own kayak, grab a rental at Quatat Marine Park in downtown Seaside, where there is also a public boat launch to get you down onto the water.

For those with a bit of kayaking experience, you can get an extra thrill by kayaking from the mouth of the river’s estuary into the Pacific’s roaring surf. It is such a fun thing to do in Seaside, Oregon, so hop onto the water and give it a go.

Oregon’s north coast has some of the best breaks in the Pacific Northwest, so it is no surprise that Seaside is a surfing hot spot and one of the most popular things to do in Seaside, Oregon. There are plenty of local surf shops that provide lessons, rentals, and wetsuits.

Big and stormy surf is often found here in the winter, whereas the surf is smaller and more gentle in the summer, providing opportunities for a range of experience levels.

Where you surf depends on your level of expertise. Beginners should start on Seaside Beach in front of Avenue U or Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, while more experienced surfers can take on the waves at Indian Beach inside of Ecola State Park.

Seaside Cove is one of the most popular places for surfing here. Just beware of chilly temperatures (49-58 F), and be sure to bring a wetsuit or rent one from one of the Seaside surf shops. Even if you’re not surfing, this is a great place to go and watch the surfers and the sunset.

RELATED: 9 Epic Beaches for Surfing in Oregon—Beginner To Experienced!

Cannon Beach is one of Oregon’s most popular coastal destinations, and for good reason!  The beach is well known for being one of the most stunning, with a diverse range of activities for all to enjoy.

Head out onto the sand for a nice gentle stroll, take a beach bike ride, take in the views, or even fly some kites if the conditions are right.

To the south, you should be able to spot Haystack Rock, standing proud at 235 feet tall. At the base of Haystack Rock, there is an assortment of tidal pools just waiting to be explored.

You can either explore these tidal pools on your own or take a trip with a guide. The rock and surrounding area are also home to a lot of seabirds, including Tufted Puffins.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Seaside at the Necanium Estuay National History Park. This is located inside the city, so you won’t actually have to go very far to feel worlds away from the crowds. We were here on a Saturday, and there was almost nobody here!

The park sits at the Necanicum River headwaters and is a prime example of Seaside’s thriving coastal environment. Many birds and other wildlife live in this area, so keep your eyes peeled as you wander.

You’ll have access to the beach, which is really cool when the tide goes out, and there’s also a viewing deck above the water that has some pretty great views.

The Del Rey Beach State Recreation Site is a secluded beach with fantastic views located just a few miles north of Seaside. It’s a great spot for a chill afternoon stroll, clamming, and catching one of those famous Oregon Coast sunsets.

The main draw here is that you can drive on the beach and pitch a tent if you feel like staying overnight. It’s definitely a great place if you want to camp along the coast , but beware that the sand is pretty soft and you’ll likely need four-wheel-drive to make it in and out without any issues.

You’ve seen the ocean, you’ve seen a river. Now check out a lake while you’re in Seaside. This 165-acre park is perfect for outdoor lovers to spend an afternoon. There are trails, boat launches, and docks, and some great spots for fishing.

You can also go swimming (depending on the season, of course), play horseshoes, watch for wildlife like bald eagles, beavers, and a ton of waterfowl, and make use of the BBQ pits and picnic tables when you get hungry.

Quatat Park in Seaside is a lovely place to pass the time. Water-bound explorers can take to the helm of various watercraft, including kayaks, paddleboats, and swan boats. The beautiful waterways of the area have a lot to enjoy; in the summer, you may paddle past a park concert or view the blue or green herons that line the banks.

Stand up paddleboards or floating trikes are other options for exploring the waterways. The mellow waters and easy-to-load dock mean it is the perfect spot for beginners and families, making it one of the best things to do in Seaside, Oregon, for everyone.

Seaside is home to some pretty unique animals, and depending on the season, you might see anything from whales and puffins to elk and sea lions.

The state parks are some of the best places to watch for wildlife in Seaside. There are dedicated whale-watching stations for the grey whale migration between mid-December and mid-January (and again in late march), and if you’re lucky you might spot these magnificent creatures in the off-season as well.

No matter what time of year you visit Seaside, Oregon, you are sure to spot some wildlife. Lots of colorful and interesting sealife fills the tidal pools at low tide, and seals and sea lions can sometimes be spotted off the shore from the beaches or the coastal rocks’ viewpoints.

Bird enthusiasts should head to the Necanicum estuary and watch the skies for eagles, or visit Haystack Rock and look for Tufted Puffins (April through July are your best months to catch them hanging around).

Heading slightly inland, herds of Roosevelt Elk graze on the coastal meadows and emerge from the dense clutches of the rainforest. Elk are most often spotted in the early mornings or late evenings, and some of the most common spots they are sighted are the meadows at Ecola State Park, the grassy areas of Les Shirley Park, and along the north side of Ecola Creek.

One of the more unique things to do in Seaside, Oregon, is to check out the rocks at Painted Rock Beach. These are stones that people have actually picked up and decorated, and it’s pretty fun to see what people have painted.

Of course, it’s not just the rocks that draw people to the beach. The scenery is also stunning, with Tillamook Head overlooking the beach and driftwood covering the shoreline.

You can reach Painted Rock Beach by hopping on the gravel footpath west of Ocean Vista Dr. and Avenue W, or drive to Avenue U or Seadie Cove and walk from there.

Ditch the crowds and have a chill beach day at Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site. You’ll have to drive about 20 minutes south of Seaside to reach this spot, which is why it’s never crowded!

There’s a small parking lot off the main highway, and there are few facilities (but you will at least find some toilets next to the parking lot). There’s a short trail down to the beach from the parking area, and from there you’ll have a long, wide beach with fine off-white sand to enjoy.

This is a great spot for tidepooling as there are some rocks along the shoreline. Just be careful where you explore – you don’t want to get stuck somewhere when the tide comes back in! There are a few nooks and crannies that offer shade, but overall, this is a pretty exposed area, so pack accordingly!

If you’re traveling with youngsters in tow, head to downtown Seaside for some fun for all ages.

You can head to Wheel Fun Rentals and rent surries (which is like a multi-person bike cart), tandem bikes and other cool gear. This is also fun for a group of friends – no kids required ;).

Next, head to Interstate Amusement Co. Inc. and ride bumper cars, take a turn on the tilt-a-whirl, or play a round of mini golf. There’s also a hotdog stand here to complete the amusement park vibe.

The Seaside Carousel Mall is another one of the best things to do in Seaside for families. This cute “mall” is made up of a bunch of shops surrounding a mini merry-go-round, and there is also laser tag and an arcade. Seriously this is every kids fantasy.

The town of Seaside is full of places to eat and drink, especially when it comes to seafood. Favorites include locally smoked salmon and arguably the best clam chowder in the world.

For some of the best fish and chips you’ll ever try, head to Grizzly Tuna. We shared a large portion (about 5 pieces) and it was nice and meaty inside and perfectly crisp outside.

The town has long been known for street foods such as elephant ears, saltwater taffy, and ice cream, but as a whole, the eclectic dining scene really is flourishing. Although seafood is commonplace, the town also offers plenty of traditional American food, Italian restaurants, various pubs, bakeries, and ethnic restaurants, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Distance: 4.7 miles Type of Trail: Out & Back Difficulty: Hard Elevation Gain: 1,794   Feet

Trek up Saddle Mountain and enjoy some breathtaking views along the way. It is quite a climb, but the views from the top make it all worth it. The good news is that the trail is pretty easy to follow and is in good condition, with some additional exploring available at the summit if you still feel up for it.

This is the highest point in the northern half of the Coast Range, with sweeping 360-degree vistas. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Rainier , Mt. St Helens, Mount Hood , Mt. Adams, and Mt. Jefferson, plus of course, the ocean.

TIP: The trail begins in the campsite area near the parking lot. Look for a paved trail!

Before long, the paved trail will end, and you’ll enter a lush forest filled with red alder trees, Douglas fir, and Sitka spruce. As you switchback up the hillside, you’ll pass some vast, house-sized boulders, and after a lot of climbing, you’ll begin to see what this hike’s hype is all about.

Epic views await you at a viewpoint wrapped by a metal railing. Congrats – you’ve made it to the 3,283-foot summit! Now, catch your breath and soak up the views before you head back down.

RELATED: How To Do an Oregon Coast Day Trip From Portland

There are plenty of choices, but state park campgrounds aren’t as abundant in this area of the Oregon Coast, so here are two of our favorites/the closest to Seaside plus some holiday homes and hotels for those needing a bit more than a parking spot for the night!

Sea Glass Inn – This spacious studio has been renovated for a bright and airy feel. There’s a small kitchenette, dining room, and a fireplace in the bedroom. You’ll be a short walk from the Promenade and downtown Seaside.

RiverWalk Cozy Condo – This spacious two-bedroom condo is a great choice for groups or families, with room for up to five people. It features a large modern kitchen, flat-screen TV, and balcony with views of the Necancium River. It’s pet friendly too.

Inn at the Shore – This small hotel sits at the south end of the Seaside promenade, with views out over the Pacific Ocean and Tillamook Head.  All rooms come with a balcony, and the large suites include a kitchen. The hotel is dog-friendly so your pet can join you!

RELATED: 25 Cool Oregon Coast Campgrounds to Stay at

Fort Stevens State Park – Fort Stevens State Park has the largest campground in the Oregon State Park system. It has more than 500 campsites for you to choose from, with 11 deluxe cabins and 15 yurts if you’re looking for a more relaxing camping experience.

Nehalem Bay State Park – Nehalem Bay has a pretty large campground, with 265 electrical sites with water. There are also 18 yurts, 9 of which are pet friendly.

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We hope this post helped you better explore Seaside! Check out more posts on the Oregon Coast  and even more  adventures around the state .

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Oregon native and explorer at heart. Loves tackling expeditions around the world and drinking a good beer at the end of the day. PNW obsessed, VW nerd, and surf or snow riding fanatic.

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9 Best Things to Do in Seaside, Oregon

Seaside, Oregon

As one of the oldest tourist destinations in the Pacific Northwest , the small resort city of Seaside, Oregon , is a fun place both for families and the young at heart. Located along the Oregon Coast , Seaside is about a 90-minute drive from Portland , and it's top attractions include a huge sandy beach, lots of opportunities for play, a 1920s-era promenade, and places to find tasty treats of all kinds. From spending the day at a classic arcade and strolling leisurely along the beach to exploring a historic 19th-century lighthouse, there's no shortage of great ways to spend your vacation in Seaside, Oregon.

Stock Up at the Seaside Farmers Market

Seaside Farmers Market

If you're visiting the area during the summertime, swing by the Seaside Farmers Market , which happens Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. from mid-June through late-September. With local artists performing live music and a variety of vendors selling everything from homemade jam, freshly roasted coffee, and artisan-crafted oils to cheeses, fruits, veggies, artwork, and hand-crafted jewelry, it's the perfect place to stock up on picnic supplies or souvenirs for the rest of your trip.

Stroll Along the Seaside Promenade

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

One of the most popular outdoor attractions in Seaside is the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean you can enjoy while strolling along the historic oceanfront Promenade. Visitors can walk, jog, bike, or skate along the 1.5-mile paved promenade and enjoy great people-watching and beach views along the way.

The promenade is also where you'll find the Seaside Aquarium and the landmark automobile turnaround, the latter of which includes a statue of Lewis and Clark commemorating the end of their long journey to the Pacific Ocean. The historic Promenade and automobile turnaround are both free to access and welcome guests to bring along their dogs, strollers, and wheelchairs.

Get Outdoors and Play

The beach and waters in and around Seaside provide abundant opportunities for outdoor fun. Whether you want to bike or skate along the Promenade or fly a kite at the beach, you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy some fun in the sun at the waterfront, but there are also many other outdoor adventures in and around Seaside.

If you're a fan of golf, you can spend the day hitting the links at either the Seaside Golf Course or Gearhart Golf Links. If you'd rather paddle leisurely along one of the many waterways on a kayak, book an adventure with Sunset Empire Park and Recreation District , which leads group floats several times a year. Other outdoor adventures include learning how to surf from a certified instructor at the beach and hiking Tillamook Head .

Discover Amusement Parks and Games

There are a number of old-school arcades located both in Seaside's central shopping district and elsewhere around town—skeeball, bumper cars, a carousel, pinball and video games, air hockey, miniature golf, and ​go-karts are among the available activities.

At Funland Arcade , you'll find a full range of games and activities including bumper cars as well as a cafe serving pizza. Just a little farther down Broadway, Interstate Amusement Company offers classic 1950s bumper cars, miniature golf, and a tilt-a-whirl ride. A few miles south of Seaside on Highway 101, you can also visit Captain Kid Amusement Park for a full day of family fun.

Shop for the Perfect Gift or Treat

Whether you want to refresh your beachside wardrobe or you're looking for the perfect souvenir to take home to your loved ones, the shops in Seaside offer visitors plenty of opportunities to find some great local crafts, fresh candy, and unique clothing.

You can watch candy makers pull and wrap fresh taffy and other handmade sweets at Phillips Candy Kitchen , and choose from a huge selection of fresh and packaged candy, including old-time favorites like hand-dipped caramel corn.

Another fun shopping adventure can be found nearby in the Seaside Carousel Mall at Under the Big Top , a store full of toys, games, puzzles, and other novelties that make great gifts for kids of all ages.

If you're hoping to take home a piece of art, Oregon Gallery offers a selection of photography and other gift items including poster-sized prints of some of the breathtaking scenery found in and around Seaside.

Spend Some Time at Seaside Aquarium

Located on the Promenade, this privately owned aquarium occupies a former natatorium. Open daily starting at 9 a.m., Seaside Aquarium welcomes guests year-round to discover a variety of unique exhibits including the Feed the Seals attraction, where kids of all ages can purchase fishy treats to give these creatures throughout the day.

Seaside Aquarium also features a variety of touch tanks, where guests can touch creatures like sea anemones, sea stars, and sea urchins. Live and preserved marine specimens are among the other exhibits featured inside this modest aquarium. Admission is required to attend but special family discount packages are available for up to six guests.

Tour the Seaside Historical Society Museum and Butterfield Cottage

Seaside definitely has some interesting local history: It was one of the Northwest's first resort towns, is part of the region the Indigenous Clatsop people call home, and is the place where Lewis and Clark expedition members once established a salt-making camp during the winter of 1805.

If you're looking to learn more about the unique origin of this popular destination, The Seaside Historical Society Museum offers interesting exhibits, artifacts, and photographs about all these topics. Displays at the museum cover topics such as the area's rich American Indian history, the history of logging, Seaside's historic hotels, a scale model diorama of the city in 1899, and an exhibit dedicated to the now-collapsed Pacific Pier.

Although the museum is relatively small, you can spend some more time checking out the adjacent Butterfield Cottage , a rooming house for summer visitors recreating the early 1900s in Seaside.

Attend Special Event and Festivals

Seaside, Oregon, hosts a number of special events and festivals throughout the year. Depending on when you're visiting, you can enjoy festive holiday celebrations, car shows, craft beer festivals, and even beach volleyball tournaments. Here are some of our favorites:

In early May, the Pouring at the Coast Festival features a full day of craft beers from nearly 30 breweries, presented by the Seaside Chamber of Commerce and Seaside Brewing Company. The Spring Downtown Wine Walk is an annual celebration of local vineyards that typically takes place in mid-May.

In June, the Seaside Muscle 'n' Chrome car show brings dozens of classic automobiles to the Promenade, while the Miss Oregon Pageant features the official selection of the state's representative in the Miss America Pageant.

If you're around for the Fourth of July, there's a full-day celebration with a parade and a fireworks show over the Promenade. Also in July, the Seaside Beach Run includes several 5K and 10K races that take place to raise money for local charities.

An annual beach volleyball tournament featuring more than 1,000 teams happens each August—the largest amateur competition of its kind in the world—as does the Hood to Coast Relay , a 200-mile race that stretches from Mount Hood to the finish line at the beach in Seaside, complete with a beer garden, live music, awards, and plenty of food.

Discover Historic Sites and Monuments

U.S. Coast Guard

While Seaside is known for its promenade where the Lewis and Clark Trail ends, it's also the home of a number of other historical sites, artifacts, monuments, and attractions. Stop by the Seaside Visitor's Center to learn more about the area's local historic sites or else just wander around town until you happen upon a statue, plaque, or sign.

Whatever you decide to do, you won't want to miss out on a great view from the coastline in Seaside, Tillamook Rock Lightouse , a decommissioned 1881 lighthouse that had to be shut down in 1957 because it was too treacherous for anyone to commute out to Tillamook Rock to maintain it.

The oceanside city is also home to a number of nature parks you can spend the whole day exploring. Tillamook Head features the best view of the lighthouse as well as plenty of opportunities to hike, camp, and fish. Nearby, Ecola State Park stretches down seven miles of coastline with views of Haystack Rock and access to more isolated beaches.

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14 Things to do in Seaside Oregon (2023)

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A bustling beach town and one of the best stops on the Oregon Coast, there are lots of fun things to do in Seaside, Oregon. Packed with quaint shops, great restaurants and vast stretches of the sandy beach, a visit to Seaside is always an adventure. Having spent time exploring Seaside and its surrounds, we’ve put together this list of the best things to do in Seaside Oregon and included our recommendations on where to stay and what to eat.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to do in Seaside Oregon

From chilling on the beach to hiking your heart out on the trails nearby here are our 14 best things to do in Seaside Oregon, one of our favorite stops on our Oregon Coast Road Trip . Seaside can also be visited as a day trip from Portland.

1 | Seaside Promenade and Beach

Nothing beats a walk along the Seaside promenade on a sunny afternoon. At around 1.5 miles long, the ‘Prom’ as it’s known locally, is of the most popular places in Seaside. The Prom is paved its entire length and it’s a beautiful walk. Visitors can rent bicycles or roller blades and enjoy the promenade from end to end.  It’s also possible to spot whales from the prom and you’ll likely see some people with binoculars scanning the ocean for them.

The beach in front of the Prom is beautiful and, on sunny days, is busy with families and groups taking in the ocean views and relaxing on the wide stretch of sand. The Tillamook Lighthouse is also visible from the beach in front of the Ecola State Park headland to the south.

Many of the Seaside hotels are located along the Prom so you never have to walk very far in Seaside to reach the beach. Our favorite memory of Seaside is sunset strolls on the beach as the sun dipped below the Pacific horizon.

2 | Stay  in a unique hotel

Seaside has several beautiful and unique seafront properties that range from traditional to the quirky.

We stayed in the Ashore Hotel , a recently renovated modern hotel with 22 retro decorated rooms. There’s a rustic reception area with a fire pit and a small indoor pool. There are bikes to explore the town and board games you can take to your room. It’s one of the most memorable hotels from our time in Oregon. The best thing is that it is located just seconds from the prom – check prices now!

Another great option is Lanai at the Cove . This family-friendly hotel is located at the south end of Seaside beach and offers panoramic views of the ocean and Seaside itself  – check prices now!

The Gilbert Inn is a great option for couples that is steps from the prom and downtown. Offering individually decorated rooms and a lounge with a fire pit for guests a stay here is sure to be memorable. Guests must be over 18 to stay – check prices now!

Click here for more Seaside hotel prices!

3 | Take a stroll around old Seaside

Like most towns and cities, the best way to experience Seaside is to take a stroll. After a brisk walk on the prom, head for Broadway at the Seaside Turnaround and explore the area. There are lots of cute shops and old school diners that will keep you entertained for hours.

4 | Goonies Filming Location Chasing!

Seaside is a great base for exploring the many filming locations in the area, including the the iconic 1980’s movie The Goonies. The majority of the recognizable Goonies filming locations were shot in the areas surrounding Seaside. From the Fratelli’s Hideout shot in Ecola State Park to the opening scene which was shot at Cannon Beach, fans of the movie will have a lot of fun exploring these iconic locations. If you have time the nearby town of Astoria is also home to many more filming locations including the jail from the movies itself, the legendary Goonies House itself – in fact, checking out the Goonies filming locations was one of our favorite things to do in Astoria . Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park are also home to filming location for Point Break and Twilight.

5 | Try Some Incredible Seafood

Due it’s location by the ocean, visitors can expect that the seafood on offer in Seaside is amazing. With everything from fine dining to casual food, seafood lovers will love Seaside! We recommend Buoy’s Best Restaurant that also offers delicious takeaway seafood. Try the shrimp and crab melts – they are out of this world!!

6 | Sea Star Gelato

We’ve eaten a lot of gelato on our travels and may have lived on the healthy diet of it during our many trips to Italy. Make sure to stop by Sea Star Gelato to try their delicious icecreams. Sea Star specializes in gelato and dairy-free sorbet and we made a dessert stop every evening!

7 | Seaside Aquarium

The historic Seaside Aquarium is located just off the prom on 2nd   Avenue. The Seaside Aquarium is a small, privately run business that has been open to the public since 1937. One of its unique exhibits is the seal pool where visitors can get up close and to the local seals! Kids especially will love a visit to this historic Seaside Landmark.

Things to do near Seaside

There are lots of cool places to see and things to do in the area around Seaside, from hikes in the many state parks to movie location hunting in nearby Astoria.

8 | Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

A short drive south of Seaside is the incredible Cannon Beach. There are lots of things to do in Cannon Beach and its iconic Haystack rock that rises majestically out of the sand close to the shore, are among the most beautiful places in Oregon. It’s worth planning an entire day to explore Cannon Beach and the nearby Ecola State park and it’s a perfect day trip from Seaside. Cannon Beach town is located alongside the beach and is packed with cute galleries, shops and restaurants which are fun to explore.

Movie fans may recognize Cannon Beach as it was the location for scenes in The Goonies and Point Break. Haystack rock rises over 200 feet out of the sand but is surrounded by water at higher tides.

9 | Ecola State Park

One of the best things to do in Seaside is to spend some time exploring the picturesque Ecola State Park that reaches out into the pacific ocean on Tillamook Head. The park is easy to access via car and the two main stops are Ecola Point and Indian Beach. Many of the hiking trails in the park resemble the rain forest parks of Washington State.

Access to the park is just north of Cannon Beach and a day entry permit is a very reasonable $5 per car. Overnight parking in Ecola State Park is prohibited .

There are lots of hiking trails in Ecola State Park, with the Oregon Coast Trail (OCT) running down through the length of the park. Popular trails in the park include the relatively easy short hikes from Ecola Point to Indian Beach or the Tillamook Lighthouse Trail. For the more adventurous check out the Clatsop Loop Trail which begins at the Indian Beach parking lot and offers stunning views of the Oregon Coast.

Ecola State Park:  a number of the trails in Ecola State Park are currently closed due to storm damage so make sure to check the state park website for updates .

Things to do in Seaside tip: During the busy summer months from June to September the limited space parking lots at Indian Beach and Ecola Point can get very busy so it’s worth arriving early during these periods to avoid disappointment.

10 | Visit Astoria

A short drive north of Seaside is the small town of Astoria on the banks of the Columbia River. Despite its size, there are lots of things to do in Astoria and movie fans will especially love it. Astoria has been the location for some epic movies over the years, the most famous of which was The Goonies that was shot here in the 1980s. Other movies filmed in Astoria include Kindergarten Cop and Free Willy!

Make sure to check out the views from the Astoria Column which towers over the city and the delicious fish and chips at Bowpicker Fish and Chips!

11 | Tillamook Head

Tillamook Head sits on the peninsula just south of Seaside and is visible from beach and prom in Seaside. It’s home to the epic Ecola State Park and packed with winding hiking paths and stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

Tillamook Head is also home to the best viewpoint of Tillamook Rock Lighthouse which is visible from many parts of the coast. The viewpoint is located on the Clatsop Loop Trail and offers the closest view of the lighthouse from the mainland.

12 | Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park is one of the largest public campgrounds in the USA and is set in the grounds of a former military installation. The park entrance is a 20-minute drive north of Seaside and is packed with things to do. With 6 miles of hiking trails, 9 miles of paved bicycles trails and freshwater lake swimming, there is something for everyone here. The entrance fee of $5 for a day-use pass is well worth it.

Fort Stevens State Park is home to the shipwreck of the Peter Iredale. The ship was a steel sailing vessel that ran aground in 1906, the remains of which are still visible on the beach at Fort Stevens. There is a parking lot close to the beach that is a short walk to the Peter Iredale wreck.

14 | Cape Disappointment State Park

Note: as of April 2021 the trail to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and Dead Man’s Cove has been closed indefinitely. You might want to skip this one if you were planning to check out Dead Man’s Cove.

This epic state park is located just across the Astoria-Megler Bridge in Washington State and is perfect to combine with a trip to Astoria from Seaside. Don’t be fooled by the name, however, as this state park is anything but a disappointment!

Cape Disappointment is located on a peninsula with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the mouth of the Columbia River on the other. One of the most beautiful spots in the park is a secluded cove known as Dead Man’s Cove. This stunning cove is protected from the harsh waves of the Pacific and is a real gem.

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11 Fantastic Things To Do In Scenic Seaside, Oregon

• Destinations
• United States

There was a year when we wanted a vacation from our months of full-time RVing. We also wanted to make our wedding anniversary more special than usual that year. As we were coming down from Vancouver, we chose the romantic town of Seaside, Oregon, for a special stop. It is complete with beach fun, awesome scenery, fantastic shopping, and amazing history.

There were two days of drizzles, three days of partly cloudy weather, seven days of strong winds, and two days of sun. And it was all worth it. It was not surprising. Having lived in Seattle for three years, we were familiar with this kind of weather. It’s part and parcel of life in the Pacific Northwest. No matter the weather or how long you have, here is our advice on where to stay, eat, and play on a getaway to this West Coast beach town.

Located about 80 miles outside of Portland, Seaside is known as the Jewel of the Oregon Coast. A town in Clatsop County, it has a population of well under 7,000. But it is in the middle of a historically important area: the last stop of the two-and-a-half-year, 8,000-mile Lewis and Clark expedition that led to the doubling of the size of the U.S. Blessed with a romantic name that comes from Seaside House , a historic summer resort built in the 1870s by railroad magnate Ben Holladay, the town is not only historical, but there is also an outstanding beach, lots of shopping, and many beautiful spots to spend hours with your camera in tow.

1. See Seaside Beach

It was tremendous luck that the American Kite Fliers Association’s 39th Annual Kite Festival was going on during our stay. The competing kites were quite a sight as we luxuriated in the hot tubs beside the pool at the WorldMark Seaside. The beach and sky were a wide canvas littered with the giant colorful beings that danced to the hum of the ocean and the songs of the winds.

Even if you don’t make it there during a kite festival, you can enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean, and, because there are always such good winds, you could even try flying your own giant kite. The beach area is so wide and expansive that there are always people milling around, playing volleyball, biking, or skating in addition to flying kites.

2. Stroll The Seaside Promenade

The best feature of the beach is the grand Seaside Promenade. There are always many strollers walking along this special place. Where the Seaside Promenade ends at Broadway Street, you’ll find the Seaside Turnaround, a small pedestrian and vehicular rotunda that reaches out to the shoreline and marks the actual spot of the historic end of the Lewis and Clark Trail . Their statue , together with the iconic Seaside, Oregon, sign, aptly stands in the middle. We were lucky that friendly strollers were glad to take our souvenir photo.

3. Check Out Lewis And Clark National Historical Park

Fort Clatsop is about a 20-minute drive outside of town. This is where Lewis and Clark were encamped in the winter of 1805 and 1806. This memorial was later grouped with the other spots the duo explored around the vicinity, and the whole area was preserved as Lewis and Clark National Historical Park . History will be recreated for you as you meet Sacagawea and wander through historical replicas of the last stop of the famous explorers’ historic expedition.

Carol Colborn

4. Explore Fort Stevens And See The Iredale Wreck

Just 10 minutes north of the park is Fort Stevens State Park . It was built near the end of the American Civil War. It had such great infrastructure that it continued to be of very good use as an active military reservation, protecting the harbor all the way up to WWII. But it was the sailing ship Peter Iredale that ran aground at its beachhead in 1906 that has drawn tourists to the area. The Iredale wreck proved to be a great photo opportunity for me.

5. Trek Tillamook Head

A lovely promontory, Tillamook Head is defined by a steep rocky bluff jutting out into the ocean at approximately 1,200 feet high. It was named after the Tillamook, a Salishan-speaking tribe of Native Americans who inhabited the coast around the area in the 19th century.

In 1806, Clark led a team that traveled south from Fort Clatsop to harvest blubber from a beached whale in the area. Today, the area is called Ecola State Park . “Ecola” is the Salish word for big fish .

6. Swing By The Seaside Aquarium

Back in town, you can visit Seaside Aquarium . This privately owned aquarium was an indoor saltwater public bath in the 1920s. Water was pumped from the Pacific Ocean through a still-visible pipe. In 1937, it became an aquarium, meaning it is one of the oldest in the U.S. In fact, it was the first to breed harbor seals in captivity. An even more interesting fact is that during the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, a boat drifted from across the Pacific and washed up on the shores carrying trapped live fish. The remaining of these so-called tsunami fish are still on display in the aquarium. Kiddos will enjoy getting up-close-and-personal with sea life at the Touch Tank exhibit.

7. Stop By The Seaside Historical Society Museum

The small Seaside Historical Society Museum will take you back thousands of years through its many exhibits. If you allow at least an hour for an overview, then you can have the chance to go through the Native American, logging, historic hotels, old Pacific pier, Turnaround Building, Broadway Billiards, railroad history, and Hall of Fame exhibits.

8. Eat At Mo’s

The most important thing we had to decide was where we were going to dine to celebrate our anniversary. We went around town to scout for the special place. We tried Osprey Cafe , Maggie’s on the Prom , and Sam’s Seaside Cafe . The food was good at all these establishments.

But we were ecstatic when we found the place: Mo’s Seafood and Chowder on the ground floor of Shilo Inn Seaside Oceanfront . It had the ambiance we were looking for with huge picture windows for scenic dining by the sea.

9. Ride A Carousel

Shopping is one of the activities I loved in Seaside. We started downtown at the Seaside Carousel Mall . It was built in 1985 on the site of the old Bungalow Dance Hall. This hall was built in 1920 for the big-time bands of the era. It ran for 20 years, and greats like Bing Crosby and Glenn Miller performed there. Locals say that Seaside was the place to be during those days.

Today, the mall is full of crafts, local products, and food outlets aside from fun things to do like riding the carousel that is right in the middle of the quaint mall. My husband thinks riding a carousel is one of the most romantic things in the world so, of course, we had to take a spin.

10. Shop Seaside Outlets

But it was at the Seaside Outlets where I found a lot of treasured items. Featuring outlets for 22 name brands, it was at an Eddie Bauer store that I found a light black jacket on sale at a 70 percent discount. It has become a favorite of mine and is still in good use today. What surprised me most, however, was the multi-station recharging area near the mall. It was the first time I saw such a thing for Tesla vehicles.

11. Stay At WorldMark Seaside

We had enough Club Wyndham timeshare points to stay in a spacious one-bedroom unit at the four-star WorldMark Seaside resort. Also available for booking by the public, it is recognized as one of the state’s best waterfront locations. It was a great choice and became a wonderful home (not on wheels) for a full week.

There is a large pool area that looks outside to the beach. It is surrounded by several hot tubs where we spent many hours of relaxation. We also frequented the game room, where we enjoyed playing table tennis. The fitness center saw us every day for our exercise regimen. At the end of the day, however, we thoroughly treasured our drinks and appetizers on our balcony. It offered such a great view of the town, the nearby hills, the beach, and the ocean. Since our unit was equipped with a kitchen, we bought a lot of seafood and other supplies at the grocery store and prepared most of our breakfasts and dinners.

Bonus: Day Trips From Seaside

Locals will tell you that taking some half-day and day-long trips to nearby areas will afford you even more connections to the area’s history, plus fantastic scenery. The historic city of Astoria with its historic column and so-called bridge to nowhere is just 20 minutes to the north of Fort Stevens. And the scenic town of Cannon Beach with Haystack and the Needles is just 15 minutes to the south of Tillamook Head.

Our week in Seaside was such a welcome break from all our months of RVing. Our anniversary that year became a special celebration. We had everything from history and scenery to shopping and beaches. The weather may not have been perfect, but you don’t need that in Seaside. There is something for every kind of day. It was a luxurious treat we deserved to have.

Related Reading:

• 12 Oceanfront Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals From Cannon Beach To Depoe Bay
• 5 Charming Small Towns To Visit Along The Oregon Coast
• I Explored The Oregon Coast In A Little Camper, Here’s Why You Should Too

Carol retired as a CEO for pioneering IT companies in the Philippines. Curious about the world she missed while stressing out working, she migrated to the U.S., ended up an adjunct professor and small business counselor while babysitting her grandson during the day. That is, until she met her travel partner on the internet! After the wedding ceremony, they honeymooned for eight years in an RV to 49 states, nine Canadian provinces, and six Mexican states.

They now call Mesa, Arizona, home. From this base, they embark on great road trips to meet family at reunions in picturesque resorts around the U.S. Visits to their kids’ homes in Anchorage, Boise, and Denver (his) and in San Francisco, Calgary, and Melbourne (hers) allow for exploring the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Carol has been to 48 countries but their 3-month all-inclusive winter escapes to Mexico in Mazatlan, Cancun, or Cozumel are their best times.

Carol maintains a blog, Carolina: Cruising Past 70 , and has published two travel books: Carolina: Cruising to an American Dream about her RVing years and Cruising Past Seventy: It's Not Only About Outer Journeys . It's Also about Inner Ones , is a collection of her most widely-read blog posts and articles. She has a BS in math, MBA, and DPA.

Seaside, Oregon Revealed: The Best Places to Eat, Play, and Stay

by Tyler James | May 10, 2022 | Adventures , Beaches , Family Fun , Featured , Food & Drink , Hiking , History , History , Oregon Coast , Restaurants , Things To Do , Travel

Seaside, Oregon is a picturesque coastal town in the Pacific Northwest that has become a popular destination for travelers visiting the Oregon Coast . Seaside's gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean, unique historical significance and history as one of the first popular resort towns draws tourists from all over the world.

Exploring Seaside, Oregon: A Traveler's Guide

Long ago, the area that is now Seaside on the West Coast was the home of the Clatsop Indians. Unfortunately, smallpox and other diseases brought by fur traders killed most of the people in the Clatsop tribe, leaving just 250 people by the time Lewis and Clark arrived on the Oregon coast.

In 1899, 94 years after Lewis and Clark reached the Oregon coast, the town of Seaside was established, and it has been a vacation destination ever since.

Read more about the interesting history of Seaside Oregon here .

Things to Do Near Seaside, Oregon

Seaside has so much to do and see, including interesting hikes, unique restaurants, gorgeous beaches, an abundance of options for family fun, and more.

Do you love Oregon?

Sign up for monthly emails full of local travel inspiration and fun trip ideas. In each newsletter we'll share upcoming events, new things to do, hot dining spots and great travel ideas.

The video above gives a quick look at 10 amazing spots you should check out in Seaside, including some on our favorites list.

You can also check out the map below to explore many of the awesome things there are to do around Seaside on the north coast of Oregon.

Seaside Oregon Restaurants

Bagels by the sea.

This little Bagel shop on the north coast offers up delicious gourmet sandwiches, bagels, and coffee.

This is a must stop if you want a good sandwich while visiting downtown Seaside.

Check out their menu here .

Brew 22 Coffee

Brew 22 in Seaside serves up tasty high end coffee along with milkshakes, real fruit smoothies and blended coffee.

The Caramel Mocha, Robust German Mocha, Americano, and Chai tea are just some of the delicious drinks you can grab on your way out to your next adventure in Seaside.

Sea Crab House

It's not truly a trip to the Oregon coast or to Seaside unless you stop for fresh seafood.

The Sea Crab House is one of the best spots on the coast to get quality delicious crab and other seafood dishes.

Dungeness Crab Salad, Lobster Chowder, Crab Cakes, Fried Scallops, Shrimp Baskets, Alaskan Snow Crab, and Cajun style seafood boils are just a few tasty seafood dishes on offer.

Check out the full menu here .

Ruby's Roadside Grill

Ruby's Roadside Grill serves up classic American dishes that will make your mouth water.

Gourmet burgers, and fries are served up alongside milkshakes and local beer.

What a great spot to stop off in Seaside for lunch or dinner!

Check out the full Ruby's menu here .

Times Theatre And Public House

Half brewery, half theatre, this is one unique Seaside establishment you should definitely check out. Considered both one of Oregon's most unique breweries and one of Oregon's most interesting theatres, you can't really go wrong by stopping in to catch a movie or get a big dose of nostalgia.

This theatre was built in 1940 and is still serving the Seaside community today. Seaside Brewing Co serves up ales for every palate and signature beers as well as experimental creations and sits just behind the silver screen of the Times Theatre.

This is the perfect spot for a night out with friends and loved ones when visiting Seaside, Oregon.

Pacific Northwest Hiking Near Seaside Oregon

Youngs river falls.

Young's River Falls, a 30 minute drive from Seaside is the perfect spot to take a short hike with the family because it has a big payoff at the end of the trail in the form of a gorgeous waterfall.

The .3 mile trail in the north coast region is easy to walk, and the falls are the perfect spot for a picnic or to dip your toes into the water. Read more about the Youngs River Falls hike here .

Tillamook Head Trail

The Tillamook Head Trail is another great spot to hike near Seaside, Oregon.

Tillamook Head is the farthest point reached by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the views were so gorgeous that Captain Clark stated, "I behold the grandest and most pleasing prospect which my eyes ever surveyed."

This north coast trail is a 3.9 mile loop with a 900 foot gain in elevation. Read more about this gorgeous trail here .

The Oregon Coast Trail Section 1 - Columbia River To Oswald West

The Oregon Coast Trail, also known as the OCT is a 362 mile trail made up of other trails that stretch the length of the Oregon coast.

This trail takes hikers through gorgeous rain forests, across sandy beaches, up beautiful headlands, and through 28 towns on the Oregon coast, including the small city of Seaside.

The portion of the trail that goes through Seaside as well as Fort Stevens State Park is section 1, which you can find a map for here.

Section one goes from Fort Stevens State Park on the north coast along the Columbia River, down through Cannon Beach (where you can detour off the trail to check out Haystack Rock on the beach, or catch views of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse), through Seaside and down to Oswald West State Park.

Saddle Mountain Trail West Of Seaside

Saddle Mountain is part of the Oregon State Parks system and is a popular place to hike.

While this trail is a 50 minute drive east of Seaside, it's worth mentioning because of the breathtaking views afforded to those willing to make the trek up to the 3,290 foot summit.

The Saddle Mountain trail takes hikers through dense forests in the coastal range of Oregon and is a good spot to stop off to explore on your way to Seaside, Cannon Beach, or Fort Stevens. Get more information about the Saddle Mountain Trail here.

The Seaside Promenade

The Seaside Promenade, also known as "the Prom," has been around since 1921 and is a great spot for a morning jog, a bike ride, beach access, people watching, or a trip to some of Seaside's best shopping and restaurants.

We love the Seaside promenade for all this 1.5 mile stretch along the beach has to offer. Take the promenade to Broadway Street to visit Mo's Seafood and the Seaside Carousel Mall, or to get into one of the vintage bumper cars to have a smashing good time with the whole family.

The Seaside Carousel Mall is a must stop for tourists as it's a favorite shopping hot spot in old Seaside.

Visitors to the Seaside Carousel Mall on Broadway Street will also enjoy riding the carousel, playing laser tag, and playing games at the arcade.

While you're on Broadway Street in old Seaside, be sure to stop in at Ten Tiny Tees Golf for a fun afternoon playing mini golf with family and friends.

If you're looking for things to do in downtown Seaside then Broadway Street, and the promenade are the way to go.

Other Things To Do In Seaside Oregon

Captain kid amusement park.

Those looking for family fun will want to stop at the Captain Kid Amusement Park . This park has mini-golf, go karts, a rock wall, a roller coaster and more!

Seaside Aquarium

No trip to Seaside is complete without visiting the Seaside Aquarium . Founded in 1937, this is one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast.

Kids and adults alike will be delighted to see the many rescued animals, and will love to feed the seals, and experience the touch tank.

Seaside Aquarium Information

Admission to the aquarium is $10 for adults, $5 for kids six to thirteen years old, and $8.50 for seniors.

There's also a family admission package for $34 for six people. Kids five and under are free with paid admission.

Go Surfing In Seaside

Have you ever wanted to go surfing but you don't know where to start? Seaside Surf Shop is a great place for surf rentals and surfing lessons. You'll be able to find everything you need to enjoy the water here, from surfboards to stand up paddle boards, bodyboards and skimboards. The shop offers full surf packages as well as lessons through Oregon Surf Adventures.

Oregon Surf Adventures can get you started on your surfing journey with experienced instructors that will teach you everything you need to know. Giving surfing lessons since 2005, Oregon Surf Adventures has you covered whether you're a complete beginner or are looking to up your surf game. Group lessons, semi-private lessons, and private surf lessons are all offered here. You can also get a custom package for a surf experience that's tailored just to you and your group.

Another option are the surf camps designed for kids ages 9-15 years old. Each surf camp is two days and teaches the basics of surfing while helping kids gain confidence in the water and make new friends.

Check out Oregon Surf Adventures on Facebook for more information.

High Life Adventure Park

High Life Adventure Park is a north coast gem you won't want to miss if you like adventure or are looking for something to do with family and friends.

This aerial challenge park in Seaside has dozens of obstacles and includes obstacles lower to the ground for kids.

High Life Adventure Park Information

At the time of this article, general admission is $69 for ages seven to adult for two hours in the park. The Junior course (ages four to eight) costs $39.

Learn more about High Life Adventure Park here , including what you can expect during your visit.

Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is one of Oregon's most beautiful state parks.

Situated on the north coast, it's open for day use year round and offers gorgeous views of Tillamook Head, along with nine miles of coastline and hiking opportunities.

Ecola Sunset. Photo by Darek Farmer via Flickr CC2.

From Sitka Spruce forests, to grassy bluffs overlooking the majestic Pacific ocean on the north coast, secluded coves and towering cliffs, this park is a must visit .

Beaches In Seaside Oregon

Seaside Oregon. Photo by Marvin Bowen via Flickr CC2.

If you're looking for fun things to do and sandy shores, Seaside has a lot of great beaches to explore and relax on while you take in sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

Many are accessed via hiking trails within Ecola State Park , such as Indian Beach, and Crescent Beach. Visitors to the beaches near Seaside enjoy fun things like kite flying, building sand castles, and exploring local tide pools for marine life.

RELATED: The 16 Best Oregon Beaches to Dip Your Toes in The Sand

Crescent Beach. Photo by Michael Matti via Flickr CC2.

Crescent Beach

A two and a half miles round trip hike will get you to gorgeous Crescent Beach in Ecola State Park. The trail can be steep and narrow as it winds it's way down to sea level and is advised for experienced hikers only.

Because this beach is secluded and requires a hike to get to, not many people get to see it. It's a great spot to get away from the crowds at other nearby beaches, and while you're hiking it kind of feels like you're on an adventure with a treasure waiting for you at the end of the hike. That treasure is a great view and discovering this hidden little cove.

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach State Recreation Site is a 120 acre park with big views and an ADA accessible boardwalk leading to the beach. This beach is open year round and offers up expansive views of the area all the way from Cape Disappointment to Ecola.

Seaside Beach

Those visiting Seaside will also enjoy Seaside Beach, and Painted Rock Beach.

Seaside Beach is a sandy stretch along Seaside's 1.5 mile Seaside promenade and is the perfect spot for a walk with family at sunset, and learning about the history of the Lewis and Clark expedition. The alluring Seaside Promenade, adorned with breathtaking views, is a delight to walk along, and the charming beachside cottages add to the experience. For more than a hundred years, this picturesque path has been a preferred destination for both residents and visitors, as it boasts a plethora of attractions and sights along its route.

The Promenade, which extends for nearly a mile and a half, acts as a divider between the city and the beach and ocean. While one side offers magnificent stretches of sand, the other side is home to delightful beachside cottages and historic hotels.

Visitors to Seaside Beach will find the famous End of Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail statue at The Turnaround (the official end to the Lewis And Clark Trail), along with a reconstructed salt-making camp of the Lewis and Clark expedition. These are both iconic landmarks in Seaside.

Painted Rock Beach

Painted Rock Beach has thousands of painted rocks left by locals and visitors, creating a painted rock garden of sorts.

Learn More About Lewis And Clark And The Lewis And Clark Salt Works

Seaside is full of opportunities to learn about Lewis And Clark. A great place to learn about this expedition is the Lewis And Clark Monument salt cairn, and also at the Seaside Museum, which will walk you through thousands of years of local history and will bring to life the salt camp at the Lewis And Clark Monument that the famous explorers set up more than 200 years ago. The Lewis And Clark Salt Works is one of many important historic sites and plays an important part local Seaside history. The local historical society is very active in bringing the area's historic sites like the Lewis and Clark salt works alive.

Lewis And Clark Wildlife Refuge

If you're interested in seeing what the area looked like when it was still just a wilderness during the time of Lewis And Clark, check out the Lewis And Clark National Wildlife Refuge which is about 30 miles north west of Seaside.

Local History Options

If you'd like to visit more museums and learn more about the history of this part of the Oregon coast, we recommend taking the 30 minute drive north to Astoria to check out all the museums run by the Clatsop County Historical Society.

The Oregon Film Museum, the Heritage Museum, the Flavel House Museum, and the Uppertown Firefighters Museum are all well worth the short drive from Seaside.

The Population Of Seaside Oregon

According to the 2021 census, the population of Seaside Oregon is 7,234 people.

If you visit the Seaside Visitors Bureau online, you can order a free Seaside travel guide.

Please Note:

• Many of the north coast trails, destinations and activities listed in this guide cost money or have a fee for parking.
• Hiking, exploring and adventuring are at-your-own-risk activities.
• When visiting the gorgeous Oregon coast, please follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace to keep our state wild and beautiful for future generations.
• When on the beach or near the ocean, don't turn your back on the water, and educate yourself on the dangers of sneaker waves .
• Please don't climb or damage rock formations.

More Oregon Coast Towns To Visit

• Lincoln City, Oregon
• Yachats, Oregon
• Astoria, Oregon
• Newport, Oregon
• Florence, Oregon
• Pacific City, Oregon
• Bandon, Oregon
• Brookings, Oregon
• Cannon Beach, Oregon

What's your favorite thing to do when visiting Seaside Oregon? Have you ever explored the area around Seaside, Cannon Beach, and Fort Stevens ? Let us know, share your photos of Seaside with us, and tag the friends and family you want to go to Seaside with!

Written By Tyler James

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Seaside & Beyond – Things To Do & See | Oregon Coast

• Seaside is Oregon's oldest vacation seashore resort • Seaside features one of the oldest aquariums on the Pacific Coast

Located 16 miles south of Astoria and 80 miles west of Portland, the city of Seaside is Oregon's oldest vacation seashore resort. It is a popular destination for families with kids, outdoor enthusiasts, or just for people who just want to relax and enjoy the beach life. There are so many activities and attractions in this area that visitors will never run out of things to do!

Probably the most remarkable spot in the city is the oceanfront Promenade running parallel to the shore where you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and breathtaking sunsets! You can stroll, jog or bike along the entire 1.5-mile length of it. Take a picture of the famous Turnaround with the statue of Lewis and Clark while you are at it! For families with children, there are Arcade Indoor Playground, Seaside Aquarium, and Family Fun Park.

You can spend the entire day on the shoreline, playing beach volleyball, biking, flying kites, building sandcastles, watching wildlife, and much more! Scenic waterways are amazing avenues to explore by using your kayak, canoe, or boat. The Necanicum River and the Neawanna River at the beautiful Broadway Park are both great spots for your water adventure! Every year toward the end of summer a big amateur volleyball competition is held on the city's beach.

You can get an inn or a rental house with a view of both the ocean and the promenade. Alternatively, you can find a place a few blocks away along U.S. 101 for a reasonable price. Hotels along the Necanicum River are another great option too.

You can wander around downtown for shopping, restaurants, bars, or simply to enjoy the local sights. The Merry-Go-Round, which serves as the point of convergence of Seaside Carousel Mall, incorporates twenty unique shops. The shopping center’s stores offer exquisite handmade creations and one-of-a-kind gifts. There is also a unique 1950s burger joint with an arcade set up worth visiting.

Find Places to Stay

Things to do and see, promenade and turnaround.

Constructed in 1920, the oceanfront Promenade is a popular place where visitors enjoy strolling, jogging, biking, and surrey riding. The 1.5-mile path offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, 1000-foot-high Tillamook Trail Head access, and a sandy beachfront with playgrounds.

Midway of the Promenade at the junction of the Promenade and Broadway Street sits the historical landmark called Turnaround with the statue of Lewis and Clark. It is the most photographed spot in Seaside.

Seaside Historical Society Museum

Butterfield Cottage is a beach cottage museum that offers a glimpse into the history of the area. The museum has local history exhibits, artifacts dating back to 700 B.C., the diorama of the city in 1899, a research library, and more. Hours: Monday - Saturday from noon to 3 pm.

seasideoregonmuseum.com 503-738-7065

570 Necanicum Dr, Seaside, OR 97138

Seaside Aquarium

Founded in 1937, this is one of the oldest aquariums on the Pacific Coast. There are 100 species of marine life including sea stars, crabs, and octopuses.

seasideaquarium.com 503-738-6211

200 N Prom, Seaside, OR 97138

Tillamook Trail Head

The 7.5-mile trail is the footsteps of the Lewis and Clark expedition. In 1806 Clark and other members of the Corps of Discovery hiked over to purchase fresh whale meat and blubber oil from local indigenous people. Later, Clark described in his journal his first impression of the ocean and its shore.

The moderate difficulty trail over Tillamook Head Coastal Cliff begins at the south end of Seaside at Tillamook Head Trailhead. It runs through the fern-shrouded forest of Ecola State Park and ends at Indian Beach or Ecola State Park (the north end of Cannon Beach). The total elevation gain is 1400 feet (427 m). The full 15-mile round-trip may be challenging for some people. You can walk part of it and arrange the Arrow Taxi in Seaside or ask a friend to pick you up at the Ecola State Park's picnic area.

Trailhead - Get Google Maps Directions

Broadway Street

A pedestrian-friendly Broadway Street runs east from Turnaround on the Prom through the historical downtown with tourist attractions, restaurants, and bars. The restored historic Gilbert District, just east of the Necanicum River, is home to the city's oldest buildings, boutiques, and Fairweather House & Gallery (612 Broadway St).

Lewis and Clark Salt Works

Lewis and Clark Salt Work is located near the south end of the Promenade. It is a part of the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, where the expedition made salt for meat preservation during the 1805-1806 winter.

Get Google Maps Directions

Lewis & Clark Mainline Biking Trail

Lewis & Clark Mainline is a popular and easy biking trail. It follows the Lewis & Clark River, crosses several bridges, and passes a fish ladder and small dam where you can stop for some rest and memorable pictures. Seaside has a rich railroading past, which is evident on the Mainline. There are remains of the old rail bed as well as a single-lane steel Bridge along the magnificent South Fork Gorge.

Seaside Beach

Read More...

Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament

Seaside Beach hosts one of the biggest beach volleyball tournaments in the world. It runs in August for three days during the second full week of the month.

seasidebeachvolleyball.com

Fishing, Crabbing, and Clamming

The Seaside location allows for river, lake, and ocean fishing all in one place. Necanicum River and Neawanna River flow through the town with several lakes sitting in and around it. You can even fish and crab right in town at the 12th Avenue Bridge or the Seaside Beach.

You can catch salmon, steelhead, and trout in the rivers and largemouth bass, catfish, perch, crappie, and bluegills in the lakes. You can angle for redtail surfperch right at the beach or venture into the ocean for ocean-bottom fish. Seaside Beach is also a productive place to dig for razor clams.

Seaside Farmers' Market

The oceanfront farmers’ market is open every Wednesday from June to September. You'll find local fruits, vegetables and flowers, baked goods, jams and jellies, seafood, and more. The market also has live music performances.

seasidemarket.org 503-738-3311

1120 Broadway St, Seaside, OR 97138

Seaside Factory Outlet Center

More than 20 discounted shops, including Nike Factory Store, Pendleton Outlet, and Helly Hansen. Open every day from 10 am to 8 pm (6 pm on Sunday).

seasideoutlets.com/stores 503-717-1603

1111 N Roosevelt Dr #202, Seaside, OR 97138

Seaside Carousel Mall

This place features a variety of shops, entertainment, and an old-fashioned carousel.

seasidecarouselmall.com 503-738-6728

300 Broadway St, Seaside, OR 97138

Adventures Nearby

Seaside History

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Welcome to Weymouth, the British seaside resort with a twist

With a prime position on the Jurassic Coast, this Dorset harbour town is well placed for fossil-hunting walks on Chesil Beach and boat trips to the magnificent rock arch of Durdle Door.

Strung along a bay in southwest England, Weymouth still possesses many of the characteristics that once charmed Georgian and Victorian holidaymakers: the children waving from bulb-lit carousels, the boats slung with nets of rock oysters, the fisherfolk unloading the day’s catch in a harbour backed by pastel-hued houses. In many ways, it’s the quintessential English seaside town — only with a clifftop fortress and a World Heritage Site thrown in for good measure. Set on the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast, a 95-mile stretch of fossil-rich cliffs and beaches straddling Devon and Dorset, it serves as an ideal base for those looking to delve into the geology of the surrounding landscape. Wind-lashed isles are within easy reach, while exhilarating boat trips along the coast offer a fresh perspective on Dorset’s marine life and otherworldly rock formations.

How should I spend my time?

Take a stroll on Chesil Beach, the 18-mile shingle barrier that gave its name to one of British author Ian McEwan’s most famous novels. A pebbled swathe pinned between the sea and The Fleet lagoon, its sheer expanse makes it a peaceful spot to spend the day searching for ammonites and other fossils. Scramble up its undulating mounds, which are threaded with wildflowers like thrift and sea campion come spring, and you’ll be treated to endless views of the English Channel at the top. For panoramas of Weymouth itself, make for Nothe Fort , built between 1860 and 1872 by Lord Palmerston in anticipation of a French invasion that never happened. The coastal defence is now an award-winning war museum with its own nuclear bunker, and offers an array of family-friendly events, including silent discos, Punch and Judy shows and open-air Shakespeare performances. For an exhilarating 20-minute trip east along the Dorset coast, book a seat on a boat with Weymouth Bay RIB Charters . Watch out for seals and dolphins as you speed towards Durdle Door, a serpentine rock arch known locally as the ‘drinking dragon’.

Where should I go for food?

On a clear day, breakfast doesn’t get much better than a plate of syrup-drenched pancakes at The Lookout Café . Not far from the Romano-Celtic temple ruins on Jordan Hill, the family-run restaurant looks onto Preston Beach, where you might spot the occasional windsurfer taking advantage of the coastal breeze. At Billy Winters Bar & Diner , ice-cold pints are best accompanied by a basket of battered fish. Strung with lanterns, the improvised beach bar shares the shingle with Ferrybridge Boatyard near Chesil Beach Visitors Centre. A five-minute walk brings you to its sister restaurant, Crab House Café , home to huge seafood platters and a terrific list of English sparkling wines. For relaxed fine dining overlooking Weymouth Harbour, book one of the window tables at Les Enfants Terribles , where head chef and owner Eric Tavernier brings French flare to a menu highlighting local seafood. Try the sea bass, steamed with carrots and oranges.

Where are the best places to stay?

Weymouth’s promenade is lined with a strip of Georgian terraced houses, many of which have been converted into bed and breakfasts. A standout includes Gloucester House, where a morning enjoying unbroken views over Weymouth Bay is topped off by a locally sourced breakfast. Alternatively, check into Clifftops, a set of five lodges hewn into the cliffs on the Isle of Portland. Set within the grounds of Pennsylvania Castle and only a 15-minute drive from Weymouth, the minimalist apartments — all slick, stylish furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows — seem to float above the crashing waves below. They’re built with local stone found on the four-mile-long islet, so guests may even notice fossils embedded in the walls.

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Seaside Attractions

It’s easy to find yourself wandering the beach, lost in thought. And honestly, we can’t blame you. But occasionally it rains, or you want to move indoors. From our historic Seaside Aquarium to the classic carousel and Seaside Historical Museum, it’s just as easy to visit one of our many attractions. Seaside also makes a good base for visiting popular attractions from Astoria to Cannon Beach. Read on for more.

As Above So Below

A one-of-kind photo adventure with a vintage Seaside theme. This upside down photo studio is a fun, family-friendly way to create a memory and keepsake.

111 Broadway Seaside, Oregon

(971)286-0249

Captain Kid Amusement Park

If you're looking for family fun, look no further. Activities include go-carts and an 18 hole mini-golf course.

2735 S. Roosevelt Dr. Seaside, OR 97138

(503) 738-2076

https://www.captainkidamusementpark.com/

Fly Seaside Heli-Tours

See the North Oregon Coast from above with Fly Seaside Heli-Tours. Fly over one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. The best possible views of the Pacific Ocean and a simply unforgettable experience. Just 1/4 mile south of Seaside on Highway 101. Click

See the North Oregon Coast from above with Fly Seaside Heli-Tours. Fly over one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. The best possible views of the Pacific Ocean and a simply unforgettable experience. Just 1/4 mile south of Seaside on Highway 101. Click HERE for more details.

2665 S Roosevelt Dr. Seaside, Oregon 97138

503-717-5172

https://flyseaside.com/

Fort Clatsop

Fort Clatsop was the winter encampment for the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery from December 1805 to March 1806. The visitor center includes a replica of Fort Clatsop similar to the one built by the explorers, an interpretive center offering an exhibit hall, gift sho...

Fort Clatsop was the winter encampment for the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery from December 1805 to March 1806. The visitor center includes a replica of Fort Clatsop similar to the one built by the explorers, an interpretive center offering an exhibit hall, gift shop and two films. Entrance Fees: 16 and older - $5 per person - 7 days. 15 and younger - free. The Lewis and Clark National Historical Park Annual Pass is $20 annual park pass covers entrance fee for the pass holder and three other adults in a single, private, non-commercial vehicle at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park.

92343 Fort Clatsop Road Astoria, OR 97103

(503) 861-2471

https://www.nps.gov/places/fort-clatsop-or.htm

Funland Arcade

Experience the North Oregon Coast’s largest arcade. Hundreds of arcade video and redemption games. They have everything from the latest and greatest “ virtual reality games ” to longtime favorites.

201 Broadway Seaside, OR 97138

(503) 738-5612

www.funlandseaside.com/

Gearhart Bowl

Gearhart Bowl is a 12 lane bowling alley with a full service lounge, Gearhart Fultano's Pizza, as well as Oregon Lottery and Keno. Enjoy Rock N Bowl, league bowling, and party packages.

3518 Highway 101 North Seaside, OR 97138

(503) 738-5333

www.gearhartbowl.com

High Life Adventure Park

The High Life Adventure Park has something for all ages and experience levels. Their guides will be available to assist along the way as participants choose their level of difficulty through the octagon of obstacles. The aerial challenge course features 30 platforms and...

The High Life Adventure Park has something for all ages and experience levels. Their guides will be available to assist along the way as participants choose their level of difficulty through the octagon of obstacles. The aerial challenge course features 30 platforms and over 50 challenge elements offering an exhilarating experience in the air, 20 to 40 feet off the ground. Participants self guide through the course with 4 levels of difficulty and create their own experience.

2520 South Roosevelt Drive Seaside, OR 97138

503-717-5444

https://www.highlifeadventurepark.com/

Lewis & Clark Saltworks

During the winter of 1805 and 1806, salt became scarce and was badly needed by the Lewis & Clark expedition for preserving meat and fish, and for the coming return trip. Three men from the group were assigned to the beach some distance north of Seaside's Cove area, ...

During the winter of 1805 and 1806, salt became scarce and was badly needed by the Lewis & Clark expedition for preserving meat and fish, and for the coming return trip. Three men from the group were assigned to the beach some distance north of Seaside's Cove area, to establish the "Salt Cairn", also known as the "Salt Works". They worked continuously from February 2 to February 20, 1806, boiling sea water from which they extracted four bushels of salt.

1-99 Lewis and Clark Way Seaside, OR 97103

Pool & Recreation Center

The benefits are endless at Sunset Empire Park & Recreation.

1140 Broadway Street Seaside, OR 97138

(503) 738-3311

www.sunsetempire.com/

Seaside Aquarium

S easide Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast. Founded in 1937, the aquarium is privately owned and the descendants of some of the founders are still active in the aquarium operation. The aquarium is proud t...

S easide Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast. Founded in 1937, the aquarium is privately owned and the descendants of some of the founders are still active in the aquarium operation. The aquarium is proud to be involved in public awareness programs: Marine Mammal Stranding, Seaside Beach Discovery Program, Sea Week, Haystack Rock Awareness Program, the Wildlife Center of the North Coast and other marine education tours and activities for school children.

200 N. Prom Seaside, OR 97138

(503) 738-6211

seasideaquarium.com/

Seaside Carousel Mall

Seaside Carousel Mall located two blocks from the Pacific Ocean is built around a replica of a classic carousel. Children and adults alike can enjoy a musical ride on a horse, cat, or carousel animal. Surrounding the carousel are shops with gifts, clothing, souvenirs an...

Seaside Carousel Mall located two blocks from the Pacific Ocean is built around a replica of a classic carousel. Children and adults alike can enjoy a musical ride on a horse, cat, or carousel animal. Surrounding the carousel are shops with gifts, clothing, souvenirs and more. Don't forget to stop for a treat at one of the many shops that feature candy, ice cream, coffees and other treats to eat.

300 Broadway Street Seaside, OR 97138

(503) 738-6728

www.seasidecarouselmall.com

Seaside Laser Tag & Arcade

Seaside Laser Tag & Arcade is a fun place to be with your family and friends. They have many of the most popular arcade games with a new twist on two of the classics: the world’s largest Pac-Man and Space Invader Frenzy. For those with a competitive nature, you an...

Seaside Laser Tag & Arcade is a fun place to be with your family and friends. They have many of the most popular arcade games with a new twist on two of the classics: the world’s largest Pac-Man and Space Invader Frenzy. For those with a competitive nature, you and up to 19 others can tag it out in our two-story Laser Tag Arena. Party and event packages available. Come join the fun and get Tagged in Seaside.

300 Broadway St. Seaside, Oregon 97138

503-739-7513

https://seasidecarouselmall.com/store/laser-tag/

Seaside Shootout

Seaside's State-of-the-art, fully animated shooting gallery Seaside Shootout where you can test your skills and your aim. Compete against your friends or shoot for the high score.

111 Broadway St. Seaside, Oregon 97138

https://www.facebook.com/Seasideshootout/

Seaside Short-Line Railway

Seaside's newest attraction is the Seaside Short-Line Railway. Train rides are $5 per child, under 2yrs must ride with an adult. While on the train see if you can spot all of the animal friends during your ride. This ride operates when weather permits.

321 S Holladay Dr. Seaside, Oregon 97138

503-738-8447

Seaside Skate Park

Seaside has one of the best parks in Oregon. Lines connect intuitively, everyone is allowed, its weird, and mild but challenging.

www.skateoregon.com/Seaside/Seaside.html

The Bumper Cars

A trip to seaside is not complete without a visit to The Bumper Cars. The pronto pups (aka corn dogs) are fresh, the mini golf is entertaining, and the tilt-a-whirl goes fast.

110 Broadway Street Seaside, OR 97138

The Prom & Turnaround

First constructed as a wooden boardwalk in the early 20th century, the 1.5-mile Seaside Promenade (or "Prom" as it's often called) and Turnaround are the iconic centerpiece of Seaside's beach. A bronze statue of Lewis & Clark - and their dog Seaman - commemorate the...

First constructed as a wooden boardwalk in the early 20th century, the 1.5-mile Seaside Promenade (or "Prom" as it's often called) and Turnaround are the iconic centerpiece of Seaside's beach. A bronze statue of Lewis & Clark - and their dog Seaman - commemorate the journey that brought these early 19th century explorers into present-day Seaside.

1 Broadway Street Seaside, OR 97138

Times Theatre and Public House

After more than 30 years being closed, the historic Times Theatre in Seaside has been reopened and reborn as the Times Theatre and Public House. Find them near the Turnaround on Broadway for a flick and some good food and refreshments with friendly locals.

133 Broadway St

503 739-7188

https://timestheatre.com/

Wheel Fun Rentals

Wheel Fun Rentals puts explorers in motion with a plethora of vessels for traversing land and seeing the sights. Intrepid adventurers can rent a range of vehicles, including Surreys or tandem bicycles. Feel like a kid again as you achieve low-to-the-ground glory with a ...

Wheel Fun Rentals puts explorers in motion with a plethora of vessels for traversing land and seeing the sights. Intrepid adventurers can rent a range of vehicles, including Surreys or tandem bicycles. Feel like a kid again as you achieve low-to-the-ground glory with a chopper, quad sport, or deuce coupe.

407 S. Holladay Drive Seaside, OR 97138

(503) 738-8447

www.wheelfunrentals.com

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

READY TO EXPERIENCE KABARDINO-BALKARIA FOR YOURSELF?

Where to find us.

• +1 704-810-4296
• [email protected]
• 1578 Pine Creek Rd., Gastonia, NC 28056

Travel Information

• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
• Is it Safe to Travel to the Caucasus in 2024?
• Climbing Kazbek & Kilimanjaro: Comparing two 5,000+ meter peaks
• How to Train to climb Mt. Kazbek in Georgia

Our Elbrus Climbing Tours

• Climb Elbrus South Route
• Climb Elbrus North Route
• Climb Elbrus & The Capitals
• Climb Elbrus & The Caucasus

Russia Cultural Tours

• Capitals of Russia
• Lake Baikal on Ice
• Delightful Dagestan
• Heart of the Caucasus

ALL Travel Services to Russia and Mt. Elbrus have been indefinitely suspended as of Feb. 2022.

Explore our new tour branch Caucasus Quest to climb Mt. Kazbek (5,054 meters) in Georgia or for immersive cultural touring experiences in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.