Skip to content

Seaside History

View from the Tower

September 11, 2013 | by Nate Burke

Flashing back to the 1920s, we see another gorgeous day in Seaside looking south from the Turnaround. In August 2013, we profiled an aerial photograph that showed the Seaside beachfront and the old Hotel Seaside with its elegant crow’s nest towers. The photo to your left was taken by a photographer perched in one of those very same towers. The highest point in town, it was the perfect vantage for the classic Seaside focal points: the Turnaround (notice that this photo pre-dates the Lewis & Clark End of the Trail monument) and, of course, Tillamook Head. As you can see, the beach is much the same as it is today. Considering that in 1920 the US population was only a third of what it is today, the beachfront is considerably busy.  The fourteenth US Census, taken in 1920, determined that the American population was near 106 million around the time this photo was taken (as compared to 314 million in 2012). Much like the US population, the beach sands have also multiplied throughout the years. Can you spot the two flights of stairs leading up to the turnaround? These days, there is only one flight of stairs visible, as the second has been completely engulfed in the expanding sands. It gives an interesting look at the topographical changes over the years; but other than the shifting beach, this view from the tower is nearly identical to what you would see today.

and so much more!

Ranger’s Guide to the North Coast

Some of Oregon’s most scenic and history-rich places are located in or around Seaside. In fact, within just a one-hour drive, yo...

Grab a Great Cup of Coffee or Roast Your Own Beans

Want your favorite coffee drink for free? Easy! Help us keep the beach clean and your coffee is on us. Foggy days on the beach, ev...

Chowder for Dooger’s Next Generation: Carnegie Wiese

Doug Wiese and his son Carnegie know a great bowl of clam chowder. It’s the signature dish at their family-run restaurant, Dooge...

How to Start Cycling In Seaside

Few places in the Pacific Northwest are as primed for pedal-powered exploration as Seaside. I should know since I’ve ridden abou...

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...

October is a Fickle Friend in Seaside

October weather is unpredictable on Oregon's North Coast

Artillery on the Beach

Artillery on Seaside

Step Into Vintage Charm at the Times Theatre

Moviegoers love a good comeback story, and that’s exactly what they’ll find at the “new” Times Theatre & Public House...

Paragliding on the North Coast

Adventure and fun with paragliding on Oregon

Film Lover’s Guide to Seaside

Home to an abundance of places to eat, sleep, appreciate culture and have fun — in the water, forests and downtown streets — S...

How to Have Fun in the Sand in Seaside

Seaside’s soft, wide and sometimes sun-kissed beaches make for the perfect family-friendly vacation. With miles of sand and welc...

Driving the Oregon Coast Highway

Unique views are plentiful along all 363 miles

View from the North Prom

Beautiful view from Seaside's north promenade.

Guide to Seaside’s Family-Friendly Attractions

From amusement rides to arcade games, Seaside offers many ways to make lasting memories on your next family vacation. You’ll fin...

Accessible Adventures For Everyone

Seaside is open — and easy — for folks of all abilities. From where to stay to what to do, we’ve got a rundown of tips to ma...

Terrible Tilly

A brief history of Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, or better know as "Terrible Tilly"

The Pull of Progress – Seaside in 1921

Postwar Seaside saw a boom in growth and development.

Riding the Streetcar in Seaside

Riding the streetcar in Seaside is a fun and affordable way to see the town.