Gearhart, Oregon

Located just north of Seaside, Gearhart is one of the oldest beach communities in Oregon. Founded in late 1800-s, Gearhart started to attract people as a wonderful coast destination. It soon became the favorite spot for Portland socialites who sought the tranquil atmosphere of a quite community to relax and rest from the busy life in the city. Over the span of more than a century, many well-known and affluent individuals have owned vacation homes in Gearhart, and the town has a rather upscale tone. In fact, Gearhart is often referred to an Oregon equivalent of Carmel or Martha’s Vineyard.

By design, Gearhart has remained a mostly residential community, free of extensive development and commercialization. It has a wonderful easy going feel of a small American town which can melt anyone’s stress away. At the heart of the town is a single 4-way traffic stop, a few shops, local favorites Gearhart Grocery and the Pacific Way Cafe & Bakery, City Hall, fire station and the post office. Here is can get the basic necessities for a memorable day at the beach or have a pleasant meal. For any of your other shopping and dining needs you can drive two miles south to the busy town of Seaside which has many brand stores, specialty shops, restaurants, cafes, and fast food eateries. 

Gearhart’s beach is one of the longest beaches on the Oregon coast. It starts at the Necanicum Estuary which separates Gearhart from Seaside and stretches for miles north to the mouth of the Columbia River. Gearhart is one of a few beaches where you can drive your automobile, which makes it much easier to take along all the food and beach gear you want. So bring your portable barbeque, beach chairs and umbrella, kites, balls, sand toys, and anything else that will make your day a perfect day at the beach. And don’t forget some logs and marshmallows for a cozy bon fire! If you enter the beach at one of Gearhart’s automobile accesses and drive for several miles north, you will see the spectacular remains of a century-old Peter Iredale shipwreck.

Although Gearhart offers ocean shore car access, the beach is never crowded with cars. This wide and long beach offers enough space for everyone to enjoy privacy, and the cars are usually parked at the dunes and rather far apart. Many people prefer to walk to the beach instead of driving. But no matter how you got there, you will undoubtedly enjoy this white powder sand beach, and the clean ocean air will revitalize you to the core.

Gearhart is also a fantastic destination for golf lovers. The town is home to Gearhart Golf Links – an 18-hole golf course which plays 6218 yards from the back tees and 5353 yards from the front tees. This golf course was opened in 1892 and has offered a combination of great golf and memorable beach time for over a century. Gearhart Golf Links is the oldest course in the northwest and arguably in the Western United States.

Whether you are looking for beach fun, quality family time, or a romantic getaway, Gearhart is one of best ocean destinations in Oregon. And it remains Oregon’s best kept secret.