Seaside is a well-known surf spot located on the Oregon coast, just beyond Cannon Beach. The area has a mix of natural beauty and heavy development, making it a popular tourist destination. The city was Oregon's first coastal resort and is frequently crowded during summer months with visitors, which can be a hassle for locals.
The surf at Seaside mainly revolves around Seaside Point, which is considered one of the best left-hand pointbreaks in North America. This spot picks up swells from the West, SouthWest, and SouthSouthWest directions, handling sizes from about 3 feet (0.9 meters) up to 10 feet (3 meters). The waves here can be powerful and offer a thrilling experience, especially during winter when the conditions are often just right. The ideal wind comes from the East or EastSouthEast, and the spot works well across all tide heights—low, mid, and high. While it's suited for advanced surfers, beginners and intermediates can find sections depending on the conditions, though the point can be quite challenging when really firing.
In addition to the point, there’s also the inner cove which can produce decent waves, especially at low tide, but it’s not on the same level as the point. The cove offers rights along a sandbar but can get crowded with longboarders at high tide. For those looking for a more mellow session during the summertime, the Columbia River South Jetty serves as a small-wave spot, though it’s pretty basic compared to the allure of Seaside Point. Keep in mind that Seaside Point can be heavily localized, so it's smart to be aware of the local vibe before paddling out.