The Oregon Coast is a nature lovers’ dream, offering the perfect combination of dramatic scenery, pristine state parks, and diverse wildlife. From ocean tidepools to lush forests, the Coast provides the ideal environment for a wide variety of Oregon wildlife to flourish. Explore the region’s varied habitats during your stay with The Seashore Inn on the Beach, and keep your eyes peeled for gray whales, migratory birds, harbor seals, elk, puffins, otters, and much more. Use the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife map to find the best wildlife viewing locations near Seaside. Grab your binoculars, spend a day wildlife-watching on the Oregon Coast, and connect with nature!
Whales and Marine Life
Whale watching is one of the most popular wildlife-watching experiences on the Oregon Coast. During the winter and spring, thousands of gray whales migrate through the region, presenting the perfect opportunity to spot these marine mammals. Visit the Seaside Aquarium and pick up some of their Discovery Cards to learn more about local marine life before you head out for the day.
- Go whale watching just steps away from The Seashore Inn on the Beach, or drive to Seaside Cove. Join the Oregon Whale Watch program and let local volunteers assist you in spotting whales at popular locations like Fort Stevens State Park.
- While looking for whales, you may also see California sea lions, Steller sea lions, and harbor seals.
Birds
Thanks to the region’s diverse habitats and location along the Pacific Flyway migratory route, birds can be seen from practically anywhere throughout any season.
- Head to Seaside Cove and look for Harlequin ducks, common loons, western grebes, and scoters along the beach.
- Necanicum Estuary Park offers a unique bird-watching site where the Necancium River meets the Pacific—spot migratory and shorebird species like sandpipers, whimbrels, and plovers.
- Visit Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and look for the adorable tufted puffins during the summer months.
Roosevelt Elk, Coyotes, Deer, and More
The Oregon Coast also offers lush forests, mountains, and prairies that provide habitat for larger mammals like Roosevelt elk, coyotes, and deer.
- Head to Astoria and see a herd of Roosevelt Elk at Fort Clatsop or Fort Stevens.
- Make a day trip to Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area and observe a wide variety of wildlife on the 1,114-acre preserve. Visit during spring or winter to see over 200 elk and sign up for a feeding tour. Other species you can spot include coyotes, bobcats, beavers, raccoons, and black-tailed deer.
Experience Oregon Wildlife Watching in Seaside
Connect with nature and observe wildlife in their natural habitat during your Oregon Coast getaway. Find the perfect basecamp for your wildlife-watching adventures with The Seashore Inn on the Beach, just steps away from the beachfront and famous promenade. Browse our oceanfront accommodation options and book with us today!