Day Trips from Seaside
Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach
If
you've ever visited Ecola State Park, you know that the incredible scenic views
leave a lasting impression, but Ecola State Park has even more to offer. Hidden
beaches, trails, and excellent surfing waves are just some of the things you
can experience. Enjoy a picnic overlooking Tillamook Rock Lighthouse,
hike the Clatsop Loop Trail, and observe the native wildlife. During the winter
months Roosevelt Elk are frequently spotted here, especially during the hours
around dawn and dusk. And needless to say the sunsets here are spectacular!
From Seaside, take Hwy 101 South to the first Cannon Beach Exit. Make a right
at the 3-way stop, and follow the signs to the park. Carefully drive up the
narrow, windy road to the top of Tillamook Head. There is a $3 day use fee,
but it's well worth it! For more information on Ecola State Park, click
here.
Cannon Beach
Downtown
Cannon Beach has its own unique charm. Spend the day poking around the numerous
shops, boutiques and art galleries, and sample some of the fine cuisine at
the local restaurants.
Wander down to the beach and you can't miss Haystack Rock, the 235' tall monolith that dominates the Cannon Beach landscape. Haystack Rock provides a home and nesting site for many species of birds, including the colorful Tufted Puffin. Abundant sea life also fills the tidepools that surround the base of the rock. Although the tidepools are easily accessible by the public, the rock itself is a protected Marine Garden and National Wildlife Refuge, so disturbing or taking any of the wildlife is strictly prohibited. Visitors must be careful when exploring the area to stay within the designated areas and avoid trampling the fascinating sea creatures that grow on and amongst the rocks. For more information about local tidepools, click here.
Astoria
Astoria
sits at the mouth of the Columbia River, just 30-40 minutes North of Seaside.
Numerous large ships and boats of all types pass through or stop to harbor
in Astoria’s piers & marinas. A riverfront trolley runs around much
of the town and is a convenient way to visit the many shops, galleries and
restaurants. Visitors can also explore the waterfront on foot by strolling
along the paved riverwalk path.
In the middle of Astoria, atop Coxcomb Hill, sits the 125 foot Astoria Column. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the column and be rewarded with an incredible 360 degree view of Astoria, the Columbia, Youngs Bay & River, Lewis & Clark River, the Pacific Ocean and nearby mountains. Take a moment and walk through the trails around Coxcomb Hill and view the fascinating “Cathedral Tree” and native wildlife.
The fantastic Columbia River Maritime Museum, has numerous interactive exhibits & activities, the Lightship Columbia (a floating lighthouse), maritime artifacts, and an interactive Coast Guard exhibit. Just across the street is the Aquatic Center indoor swimming pool where visitors are welcome to stop by and take a swim. The beautiful Victorian-style Flavel House Museum and the Heritage Museum also give visitors a glimpse of Astoria’s rich history.
Fort Stevens State Park, Warrenton
Located
in Warrenton, about 30 minutes North of Seaside, this enormous park has beaches,
hiking trails, lakes, paved bike paths, old army bunkers, and even the remains
of the Peter Iredale Shipwreck! The ship, originally 287 feet long, ran aground
about 100 years ago during a storm. During low tide the shipwreck is easily
accessible to park visitors. Another great place to visit is the the South
Jetty in Fort Stevens State Park. Built in the late 1800s, the jetty extends
about 2.5 miles into the waters where the Columbia River meets the Pacific
Ocean. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a spectacular view of waves
pounding against the rocks of the jetty. This area is also a favorite location
for birdwatching, with numerous species, including rare and unusual bird sightings
reported every year. Coffenbury Lake is also a great location for fishing,
wildlife viewing, or you walk the 2 mile trail around the lake. The park also
boasts 7 miles of bike paths, more than 5 miles of hiking trails, and miles
of sandy beach. Bicycle rentals are conveniently located at the KOA campgrounds
near the entrance of the park. With so much to offer, Fort Stevens is an excellent
place for the whole family to spend the day!
Manzanita
From
the Neahkanie Mountain Viewpoint (just off Hwy 101, about 30 minutes South
of Seaside) the view is incredible. See miles of sparkling blue ocean, the
towns of Manzanita and Nehalem in the distance, and try to spot migrating grey
whales. In Manzanita, enjoy quirky shops, galleries and fantastic restaurants.
Nehalem
Just past Manzanita is the small town of Nehalem, where you can shop, sample wine at the local winery, or enjoy outdoor recreation at Nehalem Bay State Park. Kayaking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing are popular activities on the bay.
Jewell
Visit the Jewell Meadows Wildlife Refuge off Hwy 26 and see wild herds of Roosevelt Elk. The best viewing opportunities are during the months between November and April. Herds of 75 to 200 animals can be seen all day long. During the summer months, elk are more often spotted during the hours around dawn and dusk. From September to October, the elk are breeding and males can be heard "bugling". Birdwatching is also excellent throughout Jewell Meadows. Don't forget to stop by Lee Wooden Park and see the 100 foot Fishhawk Falls!
