Skip to content

Seaside Stories

Painted Rocks & Secret Spots

February 26, 2017 | by Josh Garhofer

Painted Rock Beach

Among the many soothing oceanfront escapes to enjoy, I always challenge myself (and my peers) to explore the rustic, understated and simple beauties of Seaside. One of the hidden gems – and coincidentally one of my favorites – is Painted Rock Beach

As a place known to few, Painted Rock Beach is tucked into the secluded corner West of Ocean Vista Dr. and Avenue W. The peaceful retreat starts with a gravel footpath met by the marriage of fine sand and beach grass. The humble wooden bench atop the stone brick patio welcomes travelers with serene landscapes and seascapes. A wonderful spot to enjoy hot tea or snap some photos.

 


 

Accompanied by a plethora of decorated rocks, travelers find themselves relaxing on the bench gazing upon peaceful scenery. Tillamook Head overlooks the rocks from the background. Travelers feeling artistic themselves may wish to pick up nearby unpainted rocks and imbue their own unique touch to each. A family’s name and year they traveled, inspirational quotes, or a favorite image are among the things these rocks typically dress themselves in.

Take a walk along The Prom, hop on a bicycle, or drive and park nearby at Ave. U or the Cove to find this semi-secret beach! Who knows what other secrets you’ll find.

Looking northwest from Painted Rock BeachLooking southwest from Painted Rock Beach

and so much more!

How to Be an Earth Steward in Seaside

An estimated 14 billion pounds of discarded plastic and garbage — from cigarette butts and water bottles to food wrappers and pl...

Seaside Civic and Convention Center

The benefits and joys of life in our small coastal community are many. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, done it all and start thinking about heading to the big city you’re reminded that the Seaside Civic and Convention Center brings you the best of all possible worlds and you can stay right here

Seaside Elk

I was driving into Seaside, along Highway 101 South, and had just passed the Circle Creek Campsite on the left, when I noticed several cars parked off the side of the road.

Salt Making in Seaside

A little history about the Salt Works; on December 28, 1805 the Lewis and Clark sent five men to establish a salt camp. Five days later, they found an ideal place on the seacoast fifteen miles southwest of Fort Clatsop (the seawater had a high salt content here, and game and wood were abundant).

Celebrate the Holidays in Seaside

Celebrate the holiday season — Seaside-style! That means escaping the frenetic holiday bustle and slowing down to enjoy the sigh...

Hot Summer Car Shows help usher in the summer season in Seaside.
Hot Summer Car Shows

Two Seaside car shows help usher in and wind down the summer travel season

Discover the Beach Less Traveled in North Seaside

If your idea of the perfect beach getaway includes stretches of empty sand, hunting for sand dollars to the sounds of waves crashi...

Five Ways to Go Offline in Seaside

If you’re looking for a place to unplug for a bit and get away from all the texts and emails, head toward Seaside for an offline...

Perfect Rainy Days Are Possible in Seaside

Though we love summer’s long sunny days, something magical happens when the clouds roll off the ocean and onto Seaside’s shore...

The Cove in Seaside

Rain or shine, the Seaside Cove is a must-see-stop whether you’re a tourist or a local. It’s a mixture of sandy and rocky beach. There are tons of parking spots, and Seltzer Park is just across the street. There are public restrooms and a shower to rinse off sandy feet. There are also plenty of benches for both wave watching and people watching.

I’ll See You at the Nat

A brief look at Seaside history of Natatoriums

Churches in Seaside

The buzz of summer is in the air as Seaside welcomes ever-increasing waves of visitors, happily sharing the beauty and bounty of our coastal getaway. As numbers increase on sidewalks, in shops, on roads and in restaurants, our local houses of worship also expand. Some folks desire a peaceful respite during a busy vacation; brides anxiously check out venues for future nuptials; history buffs enjoy the areas older churches; and some just enjoy connecting and worshiping with others of like-minded faith.

Living with Cooler Temperatures

Analyzing the weather in Seaside

Only in Seaside

While you’ll find gorgeous beaches and beautiful views in Seaside, just like many places on the Oregon Coast, it’s also a coas...

COVID: What to Expect Dining In or Taking Out 

The local beer and Northwest wines are flowing, the traditional ice cream and artisanal gelato is ready to scoop, and your favorit...

How to Take an Extended Stay This Winter

It’s Sunday afternoon and you’ve been sightseeing, sipping and shopping in Seaside all weekend. It’s about time you start he...

Seaside’s Golf Getaways

Golfing is about so much more than a perfect shot on the green. Seaside makes it easy to enjoy the links while relaxing with ocean...

Portland to Seaside by Bus

Visiting Seaside without a Car