Seaside Cove Beach curves along the southern end of Seaside where Sunset Boulevard meets the Pacific Ocean, marking the transition between the developed resort beach and Tillamook Head's dramatic headland. This quieter section of Seaside's nearly two-mile coastline attracts residents and visitors seeking refuge from the crowds concentrated around the Turnaround and Promenade 1.5 miles north. The Neacanicum River flows into the ocean at the northern boundary of Seaside's beach, creating a natural division between sections. Tillamook Head rises 1,200 feet above sea level immediately south of the cove, where the historic Tillamook Head Trail climbs through old-growth Sitka spruce forest to reach former World War II bunkers and continues seven miles to Cannon Beach. Seaside developed as Oregon's first coastal resort in the 1870s when railroad magnate Ben Holladay constructed the Seaside House hotel, transforming the quiet fishing village into a beach destination.
Swimming at Seaside Cove Beach proves dangerous year-round due to cold Pacific water temperatures averaging 50-55 degrees, powerful rip currents, sneaker waves, and absence of lifeguard services at the cove location. Lifeguards patrol only the central Seaside Beach near the Turnaround during summer months from 11am to 6pm. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department warns that sneaker waves strike without warning, sweeping beachgoers off rocks and into the surf. Tide pool exploration during low tide reveals purple sea stars, green anemones, hermit crabs, and sculpin in rocky areas near Tillamook Head. Kite flying thrives in the consistent ocean breezes averaging 10-15 miles per hour. Beachcombers search for agates, sand dollars, and driftwood deposited during winter storms. Surfers paddle out at the cove during northwest swells, though cold water requires full wetsuits year-round. The 1.5-mile Seaside Promenade extends from Avenue U to the Turnaround, offering paved walking and cycling paths though it terminates before reaching the cove.
Access Seaside Cove Beach via public parking at Seltzer Park located at 2735 Sunset Boulevard, with restrooms available at the park. Street parking along Sunset Boulevard provides additional spaces during busy weekends. The cove sits approximately one mile south of downtown Seaside's Turnaround, accessible by walking south along the beach or driving Sunset Boulevard. No day-use fees apply to beach access. The terrain from parking to beach requires walking across soft sand approximately 100 yards. Cell phone coverage proves reliable with all major carriers throughout Seaside. Beach wheelchairs are not specifically available at the cove access point, though the main Seaside Beach near the Turnaround offers accessible routes. Providence Seaside Hospital operates at 725 South Wahanna Road providing 24-hour emergency services two miles northeast of the cove.
Dining concentrates on Broadway Street in downtown Seaside one mile north, easily accessed via Sunset Boulevard. Dooger's Seafood and Grill at 505 Broadway has served Seaside since 1983, preparing pan-fried oysters, grilled salmon, Dungeness crab legs, and New York strip steaks in a family atmosphere. Norma's Seafood and Steak occupies the blue building with the lighthouse near Broadway, cooking oysters Rockefeller, cioppino seafood stew, and prime rib with ocean views. Seaside Brewery operates at Broadway and Highway 101 in the former city jailhouse, brewing craft ales and smoking BBQ brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, and baby back ribs with indoor seating and dog-friendly outdoor patio. Finn's Fish House at 227 Broadway serves fish and chips, clam chowder, and grilled halibut using Pacific catches delivered daily. Nonni's Italian Bistro prepares fresh pasta including carbonara with house-made fettuccine, lasagna, and chicken marsala. Seaside Cove Beach's position beneath Tillamook Head creates a dramatic backdrop distinguishing this section from Seaside's main resort beach, attracting photographers, tide pool explorers, and locals seeking solitude along Oregon's most developed coastal community.
