Skip to content

Seaside History

Seaside Lifeguards: A Fond Seasonal Farewell

August 28, 2013 | by Nate Burke

Can you believe it’s almost Labor Day Weekend? Don’t fret!  We’re still probably in for some dynamic weather throughout September and summer doesn’t officially end until September 21. However, Labor Day marks the last day of lifeguarding season where our bronzed beach defenders will be out in force for the last time this year.

The lifeguard cycle is a well-known rhythm in Seaside – dating back further than most can remember. Shown here are two of Seaside’s all-star lifeguards in the summer of 1936. Clarke Thompson and Wally Hug were popular local surfers and water-men who channeled their athletic skills into lifeguarding. Along with their trusty dog, Bruno, and their beach cruiser (outfitted with a winch and pulley system), they were ready for every sort of beach emergency. Our hearty water warriors will be driving drive off into the sunset after Labor Day weekend, but don’t despair!  They’ll be back next summer, rested up and ready to safeguard our golden Seaside sunny season.

Editors Note: The Seaside Lifeguards operate from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day from 11:00am – 6:00pm seven days a week.  They provide surf rescue capabilities, basic first aid, help keep our beaches clean throughout the summer months, and can also provide helpful tips about when and where the safest spots are to play in the surf.

and so much more!

All About Storm Watching in Seaside

Having grown up in Seaside, Keith Chandler knows and appreciates the beauty and the power of watching storms and high tides on the...

Unique Vacation Rentals in Seaside

Yes, room service and housekeeping are nice, but sometimes when you get away, you just want to feel like you’re at home — but ...

Where to Find Your Seaside Centennial Keepsakes

While you’re walking around in Seaside looking to beat the heat, you might start with a super-tall, non-alcoholic frozen refresh...

Garden Circle Evolution

The evolution of Seaside's Turnaround garden circle.

Bring on the Bargains and Seaside’s Quiet Seasons

Though Seaside is fantastic all times of the year, the city quiets down after the busy summer season. After Labor Day in early Sep...

The War Years in Seaside

Blimp patrols were a common feature in Seaside during World War II.

Summer’s Great, but There’s Nothing Else like Winter in Seaside

When you imagine a classic beach town, you probably picture something similar to Seaside, Oregon. Our town of 6,700 sits less than...

What The Oregon Coast Can Teach You From Home

The Oregon Coast is a dynamic, ever-changing place that sparks both imagination and curiosity. While you may not be able to visit ...

Grant’s Getaways: Paddling the Neawanna in Seaside

If our summer heat wave is getting the best of you – sapping your energy and leaving you feeling generally uncomfortable, perhap...

Seaside Is Your Dog’s Best Friend

If you see a pack of corgis in adorable costumes running races, it’s just Seaside showing its love of pups. Every June hundreds ...

Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament
World’s Largest Beach Volleyball Tournament

Come August, the “digs” along Seaside’s beach have nothing to do with razor clams. For the 36th year, Seaside will host the ...

Iconic Seaside in Stereo

by Joshua Heineman Director of Tourism Marketing This is something of a detective story. To fully appreciate it, you first need to...

Episode One: Grave of the Unknown sailor

The Seaside Audio Walking Tour exploring the mysterious grave of the unknown sailor.

Extended Stays
Warm Drinks and Cool Winter Excursions

If you think winter is the best time to visit Seaside, you’re not alone. The beaches are empty, huge waves crash against the sho...

Digging for the Bounty!

Razor clamming on Oregon

King Tides on the Oregon Coast

Although the sunny days of summer are long behind us, winter brings its own special flavor to the Oregon Coast, in the form of kin...

King Tides Safety and Viewing in Seaside

King Tides on Oregon’s North Coast (photo by Don Frank) ** Story updated for the 2023/2024 King Tides ** King Tides come eac...

A volunteer assists those watching whales at an unknown location along the Oregon Coast.
Where to Watch for Whales

It’s possible to see gray whales off the Oregon Coast year-round, but one of two peak periods occurs in late March, when some 20...