Explore the Best: Top Attractions Near Gearhart, Oregon for Every Traveler
Planning an escape to the Oregon Coast? Considering the quaint town of Gearhart is a must. The town is a hidden gem filled with picturesque landscapes, enticing activities and convenience. Enhance your getaway by staying in one of the beautiful Gearhart vacation rentals; a cozy home away from home for the trip. From stunning coastal landscapes to unique cultural experiences, this guide highlights the Top 5 must-visit attractions that embody the spirit of this beautiful Oregon locale.
Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these attractions near Gearhart promise to make your vacation unforgettable. Let’s dive into the wonders waiting just moments from your doorstep.
Top 8 Things to Do & See In and Near Gearhart
There is a lot more to Gearhart than its small-town vibes and charming coastal allure, it also offers a variety of exciting activities and sights for visitors. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat by the sea, Gearhart and its surroundings have plenty to offer.
Here are the top things to do and see in and near Gearhart:
1. Explore Gearhart Beach
Discover the serene beauty of Gearhart Beach, this quintessential Oregon coast spot is known for its wide, sandy beaches and relatively peaceful ambiance. It is perfect for leisurely strolls and beachcombing adventures along its expansive, sandy shores.
Photo by Paul Buffington on Unsplash
The gentle swells entice surfers to dip their toes in and catch a wave, while the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean offers breathtaking sunsets and opportunities for wildlife watching, including a variety of seabirds. Seabirds such as western gulls, brown pelicans, cormorants, great blue herons and many more can be spotted at the beach.
Gearhart Beach is an idyllic spot for picnics, kite flying, or simply relaxing with a good book against the soothing backdrop of ocean waves. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a picturesque natural playground, Gearhart Beach is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable escape.
2. Visit Gearhart Golf Links
Gearhart Golf Links, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Oregon Coast, offers a golfing experience steeped in history and natural beauty. As one of the oldest courses in the Pacific Northwest, this venerable links-style course captivates golfers with its blend of traditional design and stunning coastal scenery.
The fairways, bordered by grassy dunes and indigenous flora, provide a delightful challenge to golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re perfecting your swing against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean or enjoying a leisurely round under the expansive Oregon sky, Gearhart Golf Links promises an unforgettable day on the greens, filled with both the charm of old-world golf and the tranquility of its seaside setting.
Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park, located just a 15-minute drive from Gearhart, is a remarkable blend of history and natural beauty. This sprawling park, once an active military fort during the Civil War and World War II, invites visitors to explore its fascinating historical exhibits, including the remains of the Peter Iredale shipwreck, a famed highlight.Â
Photo Credit: ‘Fort Stevens’ by Tjflex2 via CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED
Apart from its rich history, the park boasts over 4,300 acres of diverse landscapes, from wetlands to forests, perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. Check out the Fort Stevens Fat Bike Route for a two-wheeled adventure taking you along all the sights. Its variety of trails lead adventurers through scenic paths, while the park’s beaches and freshwater lake provide ample opportunities for fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
4. Explore the Seaside Promenade
Just a quick 8-minute drive from Gearhart, bustling downtown Seaside and its famous promenade offer a delightful excursion for visitors. This vibrant area is a treasure trove of experiences, featuring a charming mix of shops, art galleries, and a wide variety of dining options to satisfy any palate.
Photo Credit: ‘Hood to Coast, Seaside, Oregon’ by Seaside Visitors Bureau via CC BY-NC 4.0 DEED
The Seaside Promenade provides a scenic stroll along the Pacific coast, boasting stunning ocean views and a chance to soak in the refreshing sea breeze. Along the promenade, you’ll find family-friendly attractions like the Seaside Aquarium, numerous arcades, and the historic carousel, making it a perfect spot for both adults and children.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in some retail therapy, enjoy casual or fine dining, or simply take a leisurely walk with picturesque views, downtown Seaside and its promenade are a must-visit destination, conveniently close to Gearhart.
5. Seaside Aquarium
The Seaside Aquarium offers a fascinating and interactive marine adventure. This family-friendly attraction, one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast, provides an intimate and engaging experience with marine life. Visitors can delight in close encounters with playful harbor seals, observe a diverse array of aquatic creatures in well-maintained exhibits, and learn about local marine ecosystems.Â
Photo Credit: ‘Seaside Aquarium Seals’ by Granger Meador via CC BY-NC 4.0 DEED
The touch tank is a highlight, allowing both children and adults to gently interact with sea stars, anemones, and other tide pool inhabitants. The Seaside Aquarium not only serves as an educational experience but also as a fun and memorable destination for those looking to explore the wonders of the ocean while staying in or near Gearhart.
6. Ecola State Park and Cannon Beach
Ecola State Park and Cannon Beach, located just a 20-minute drive south from Gearhart, offer some of the most breathtaking and iconic scenery on the Oregon Coast. Ecola State Park, with its lush coastal rainforest, opens up to spectacular ocean views and rugged cliffside vistas.
Hikers can explore a network of trails weaving through the park, leading to viewpoints overlooking the vast Pacific and the historic Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Nearby, the charming town of Cannon Beach is famed for its expansive sandy shore and the striking Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack that dominates the landscape.
Visitors can enjoy tide pooling around Haystack Rock, especially during low tide when marine life is abundant. Both the park and the beach are perfect for photography, picnicking, and simply soaking in the natural beauty. Whether it’s the allure of forested trails or the mesmerizing ocean views, this area near Gearhart is a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil coastal experience.
7. High Life Adventures
High Life Adventures, located about a 20-minute drive from Gearhart, offers an exhilarating zipline experience that’s perfect for adventure seekers. This attraction provides an unforgettable aerial adventure, featuring eight ziplines that take you soaring through the trees and over ponds and meadows.
Each zipline offers its unique thrill, with names like “Maple” and “Fir,” reflecting the native Oregonian trees you zip past. Participants can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape while experiencing the exhilaration of flying through the air.
8. Seaside Inverted Experience
The Seaside Inverted Experience offers a unique and whimsical photo opportunity that’s sure to delight visitors of all ages. Located in the heart of Seaside, this attraction turns the world upside down with its creatively designed rooms and setups. Visitors can explore and interact with various inverted scenes, from kitchens to living rooms, all cleverly arranged to make it appear as though you are walking on the ceiling.
The experience is not only a fun, quirky activity but also a fantastic opportunity to snap some truly unique and memorable photos. Whether you’re with family, friends, or on a solo adventure, the Seaside Inverted Experience adds a touch of playful charm and an upside-down twist to your coastal getaway near Gearhart.
Come Relax & Play in Gearhart
Gearhart and its neighboring areas offer a diverse array of attractions that cater to every interest. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical explorations, or just a peaceful retreat by the sea, this region of the Oregon Coast is a treasure trove of experiences. Each destination we’ve explored promises to enrich your visit, leaving you with lasting memories. So pack your bags, head to Gearhart, and get ready to discover the wonders that this beautiful part of the world has to offer!