Seaside Beach lines the northern Oregon coast at the city of Seaside in Clatsop County, approximately 79 miles west of Portland. The beach is broad and flat, composed of pale gray sand that stretches for several miles in either direction from the Broadway turnaround—the circular road where Lewis and Clark's expedition reached the Pacific Ocean. The water is cold and the surf moderate, with waves suitable for boogie boarding in wetsuits. Seaside is Oregon's most developed beach resort town, and the beach reflects that character: it is fronted by The Prom, a 1.5-mile concrete promenade lined with hotels, candy shops, and seaside attractions. The setting is energetic and family-oriented, with volleyball courts, beach rental vendors, and an amusement arcade steps from the sand. Broadway Avenue, running perpendicular from US-101 to the beach turnaround, is walkable and dense with restaurants, ice cream shops, and souvenir stores. Public restrooms are available at the turnaround and multiple access points along The Prom. The Neawanna Creek bird sanctuary lies just north of town, accessible via a short path. The beach is dog-friendly. Parking is available throughout town, with a paid lot near the turnaround that fills quickly on summer weekends. Amtrak Thruway Bus connects Portland to Seaside in approximately two hours for around $20–30 USD, making it one of the most transit-accessible Oregon coast beaches. The beach's exposed, north-facing orientation means morning fog is common even in peak summer, but afternoons typically clear for enjoyable conditions.
Amenities
- Boardwalk promenade (The Prom)
- Amusement arcade on the Prom
- Restaurants and shops in Seaside downtown
- Public restrooms
- Volleyball courts
Good to know
- Best for
- families, surfers, beachcombers, couples, partiers
Location
Broadway Ave & Beach Dr, Seaside, OR 97138
45.9934, -123.9225 View on map
Highlights
- The Prom, a historic 1.5-mile concrete promenade, connects hotels and shops the length of the beachfront.
- The Broadway turnaround marks the western end of the Lewis and Clark Expedition's journey to the Pacific, with a commemorative monument.
- A broad, flat beach with volleyball courts and easy walking suitable for all ages.
- Amtrak Thruway Bus service from Portland makes Seaside one of the few Oregon coast beaches reachable without a car.
- Neawanna Creek bird sanctuary, a short walk north, attracts shorebirds and migratory species throughout the year.
Tips for visiting
- Arrive mid-week to avoid the summer weekend crowds that pack The Prom and beach parking areas.
- Morning fog is common—plan beach activities for early afternoon when visibility and temperatures improve.
- The Amtrak Thruway Bus from Portland Union Station costs approximately $20–30 USD and eliminates parking stress.
- Boogie board and wetsuit rentals are available at several Broadway Ave shops for approximately $15–30 USD per day.
- Walk north or south 10 minutes from the turnaround for a noticeably quieter stretch of sand away from the crowds.
When to visit
June through September is peak season, with July and August offering the best chance of dry, mild afternoons. Weekdays in July or early September offer good weather with substantially fewer crowds than summer weekends.
Frequently asked questions
Is Seaside Beach safe for swimming?
The water is cold (50–58°F / 10–14°C) and there are no lifeguards. Wading is common and boogie boarding in wetsuits is popular. Strong rip currents can form near creek outlets; swimmers should exercise caution.
Can visitors take public transportation to Seaside Beach?
Yes, Amtrak Thruway Bus runs from Portland Union Station to Seaside in approximately 2 hours for around $20–30 USD. The Sunset Empire Transportation District also serves local routes within the area.
Are dogs allowed on Seaside Beach?
Dogs are permitted on Seaside Beach year-round. Leash requirements may apply in certain sections; check local signage at access points.
What is the Broadway turnaround?
The turnaround is the circular road at the western end of Broadway Avenue where it meets the beachfront. It marks the endpoint of the Lewis and Clark Expedition's journey to the Pacific and features a commemorative monument and statue.
What family attractions are near Seaside Beach?
The beach is steps from an amusement arcade, bumper cars, a carousel, and mini-golf along The Prom. Downtown Seaside has restaurants, candy shops, and an aquarium a few blocks from the sand.