Golfing in Gearhart & the Oregon Coast: Your Complete 2026 Regional Guide
Updated. March 8 2026
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Golfing in Gearhart and the surrounding Oregon Coast region offers diverse experiences from America’s oldest links course to scenic ocean-view 9-holes.
The area features five distinctive courses within 30 minutes of each other, including historic Gearhart Golf Links (est. 1892), ocean-view Highlands Golf Club, family-friendly Seaside Golf Course, and championship Astoria Golf & Country Club.
With year-round play, seasonal rates from $22-$135, and stunning coastal scenery, this region provides exceptional golf variety just 90 minutes from Portland. Let’s get into it.
What Makes the Gearhart Region Oregon’s Premier Golf Destination?
The Gearhart area stands as the Oregon Coast’s golf capital, offering more courses per square mile than anywhere else on the Pacific Coast. This historic region has been home to golf for over 130 years, creating a unique concentration of diverse playing experiences.
Amazing but straight-up fact that folks have been golfing here for more than 134 years. In 1891, a homesick Scotsman began the work that would become the present-day Gearhart Golf Links. This Scottish heritage continues to influence the area’s authentic links-style golf culture.
Regional Golf Highlights
- Historic Significance: Home to America’s oldest course west of the Mississippi
- Scenic Diversity: From oceanfront links to forested coastal courses
- Accessibility: Five courses within 30 minutes of Gearhart
- Year-Round Play: Coastal climate allows golf in all seasons
- Varied Skill Levels: From beginner-friendly to championship-level challenges
Which Golf Courses Should You Play in the Gearhart, Oregon Coast Area?
The region offers five distinct golf experiences, each providing unique challenges and coastal beauty that make this area a must-visit destination for travelling golfers.
Gearhart Golf Links
The crown jewel and oldest course west of the Mississippi River, featuring 18 holes of authentic links golf with seasonal rates from $75-$135. Recent renovations restored panoramic ocean and mountain views.
Highlands Golf Club
The only ocean view golf course on the northern Oregon Coast, nestled between rugged sand dunes overlooking the Pacific. This 9-hole gem offers spectacular views with rates starting at $22 for 9 holes and $39 for 18.
Seaside Golf Course
A public 9-hole course measuring 2,593 yards, designed by H. Chandler Egan in 1923. It is perfect for families and beginners with a forgiving layout and affordable rates.
Manzanita Golf Course
The 9-hole facility features 2,192 yards of golf for a par of 32, carved into rolling hills near Manzanita Beach. A hidden gem built by passionate founders in 1987
Astoria Golf & Country Club
A private championship course about 20 minutes north of Gearhart with a long tradition of hosting prestigious invitational tournaments on the Oregon Coast. Access is available through reciprocal club arrangements, so check with your home club before making the trip.When is the Best Time to Play Golf in Gearhart?
When Is the Best Time for Golf in the Gearhart Oregon Coast Region?
You can play golf in Gearhart year-round, but each season has a very different feel. Fall is widely considered the sweet spot, with stable weather, smaller crowds, and some of the most beautiful light on the Oregon Coast.
Here is what each season looks like on the course:
| Season | Conditions | Crowds | Best For |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Firm, fast, warm | Busiest | Peak experience, book early |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Stable, colorful | Light | Best overall golf weather |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Soft, mild (35-50°F) | Very light | Budget rates, storm watching |
| Spring (Mar-May) | Variable, lush | Moderate | Wildflowers, shoulder pricing |
The one thing you always want to pack, regardless of season, is a wind-resistant layer and some extra golf balls. Coastal breezes are part of the charm here, but they will surely test your course management.
How Much Does it Cost to Play Golf in the Oregon Coast Region?
The Gearhart area offers exceptional value with diverse pricing options to suit every budget, from affordable family golf to premium championship experiences.
Regional pricing guide:
- Budget-Friendly: Seaside Golf Course ($24 for 9 holes)
- Mid-Range: Highlands Golf Club ($22-$39, with early bird specials)
- Premium: Gearhart Golf Links ($75-$135 seasonal rates)
- Championship: Astoria Golf & Country Club (member/reciprocal access)
Money-saving tips for budget-conscious golfers:
- Early bird and twilight rates are available at most courses
- Multi-round packages for extended stays
- Seasonal membership options for frequent visitors
- Group discounts for tournament bookings
Where Should You Stay for a Golf Trip to Gearhart?
Staying in Gearhart itself puts you within walking distance of Gearhart Golf Links and Highlands Golf Club, and within easy driving distance of all the other area courses. It is genuinely the most convenient base for golfing in Gearhart and along the Oregon Coast.
Gearhart by the Sea has been hosting guests since 1974, with more than 75 vacation rentals across several property groups. You will get a lot more space and flexibility than a standard hotel room, which is essential when you are traveling with clubs and a group.
Property Options to Explore
- Pacific Palisades Rentals: Steps from the beach with easy course access
- Gearhart House Rentals: Spacious homes ideal for golf groups
- Pacific Terrace Rentals: Great views, comfortable layouts
- Pacific View Rentals: Relaxed coastal setting
- Pet-Friendly Rentals: Bring the whole crew
View all 75+ vacation rentals in the Gearhart region
Why a Vacation Rental Beats a Hotel for Golf Trips
- Full kitchens so you can fuel up before early tee times without waiting for room service
- Equipment storage for clubs and gear
- Private outdoor spaces for post-round wind-downs
- Flexible early-departure options for dawn tee times
- Enough room for four-person groups traveling together
Check the deals and specials page before you book. Seasonal packages can seriously stretch your golf budget.
What Other Activities Complement Your Golf Vacation?
The Gearhart region offers abundant non-golf activities, making it perfect for mixed groups that don’t play golf or for rest days between rounds.
Coastal activities nearby:
- Beach recreation: Miles of pristine Pacific coastline for walking and tide pooling
- State parks: Ecola State Park and Del Rey Beach for hiking and wildlife viewing
- Whale watching: Seasonal gray whale migrations are visible from shore
- Storm watching: Winter Pacific storms provide a stunning natural theater
Cultural attractions in Gearhart:
- Historic seaside: Classic boardwalk, arcade games, and saltwater taffy
- Cannon Beach: Iconic Haystack Rock and art galleries
- Astoria: Columbia River Maritime Museum and Victorian architecture
- Local dining: Fresh Pacific seafood and craft beverage experiences
Family-friendly activities:
- Seaside aquarium: Marine life education and interaction
- Beach activities: Kite flying, sand castle building, razor clamming
- Bike rentals: Scenic coastal rides on flat, family-friendly paths
If this is your first time visiting the area, the Gearhart travel guide and the things to do in Seaside post are both solid starting points for building out the rest of your itinerary.
Planning Your Golfing Getaway to Gearhart, Oregon Coast
Successful golf trips to the region require advance planning, especially during peak season when courses and accommodations fill quickly.
Booking timeline:
- 6+ Months Ahead: Summer vacation rentals and premium tee times
- 3-4 Months Ahead: Spring/fall accommodations and tournament entries
- 1-2 Months Ahead: Winter stays and general tee time reservations
Essential packing for Oregon Coast golf:
- Layered Clothing: Coastal weather changes quickly
- Wind-Resistant Gear: Ocean breezes affect play year-round
- Waterproof Equipment: Rain protection for clubs and personal items
- Extra Golf Balls: Links courses and ocean winds need backup supplies
Experience the Oregon Coast Golf Paradise
Golfing in Gearhart, Oregon, is one of those trips that tends to turn into an annual tradition. The courses are that good, the setting is that hard to beat, and the combination of world-class links golf with beach town charm is genuinely hard to replicate anywhere else.
Secure your Gearhart by the Sea vacation rental and lock in your dates before the summer season fills up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golfing in Gearhart, Oregon Coast
Seaside Golf Course offers the most forgiving experience for new golfers, with a flat layout, shorter distances, and a no-pressure atmosphere. The 9-hole format allows beginners to complete a round without fatigue.
Highlands Golf Club provides the most spectacular ocean views, positioned between sand dunes overlooking the Pacific. Every hole offers coastal vistas that make it truly special.
Yes, most area courses are walker-friendly. Gearhart Golf Links and Highlands Golf Club offer relatively flat terrain perfect for walking, while carts are available for those who prefer riding.
Gearhart Golf Links features PGA professionals offering individual and group lessons. Most courses provide basic instruction, with comprehensive programs available for serious skill development.
Highlands Golf Club starts at $22 for 9 holes, and Seaside Golf Course is comparably priced. They both give you a legitimately enjoyable round without the premium price tag of the main links course.