Just 80 miles from Portland, the town of Seaside is the perfect destination to escape city life and experience the Oregon Coast. Whether you take the fast track along Highway 26 or meander through the scenic backroads of Highway 6, every mile brings you closer to ocean air, sandy strolls, and small-town charm. Make the most of your Portland to Seaside, Oregon, road trip and stop along the way to explore hiking trails, dine at local restaurants, and pull off at scenic overlooks. Once you arrive, The Seashore Inn on the Beach is ready to welcome you with beachfront views and all the comforts you need for the perfect coastal retreat!
Route 1: Highway 26 (~80 Miles)
Driving Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/i7DCDuBywuqwEEsz5
The fastest and most convenient way to get from Portland to Seaside is via Highway 26. Pick up the highway in downtown Portland and follow it for 80 miles until you reach Seaside. You could easily make the trip in a straight shot, but if you want to turn your drive into a mini-adventure, we have compiled a list of our favorite stops along the way:
Suggested Itinerary
- Grab your coffee and hit the road first thing in the morning!
- Drive approximately 30 miles and stop at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park in Buxton. Stretch your legs on hiking trails near the Visitors Center, like the Banks-Vernonia Trail or the Brook Creek Trail.
- 18 miles from Buxton, there’s a lovely rest area in Mishawaka, where you can stop and go to the bathroom, walk your dog, or explore a scenic nature trail.
- From Mishawaka, take an 11-mile detour along Highway 103 to Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area to visit the resident elk.
- Drive out of Mishawaka and stop for lunch at Camp 18 Restaurant. Enjoy classic American comfort food and check out the logging museum next door.
- Arrive in Seaside and check into your room at The Seashore Inn on the Beach after 4 pm.
Route 2: Highway 6 & Highway 101 (~120 Miles)
Driving Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8vtostxvPhZzwQSw9
If you have some extra time to take in the sights and explore the Oregon Coast, we recommend taking this second route.
This route starts in downtown Portland and follows Highway 26 for 20 miles before exiting onto Highway 6 towards the coast. Follow Highway 6 until you reach Tillamook, and then take the exit to Highway 101 to Seaside. Savor the journey and stop at these roadside attractions, hiking trails, and coastal towns along the way:
Suggested Itinerary
- Hit the road early and stop for coffee at Local Joy in Banks.
- Drive 28 miles down Highway 6 and take a break to stretch your legs at Tillamook Forest Center. Explore the hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views from the lookout tower, or have a picnic together.
- After exploring the forest, hop back on Highway 6 and drive another 23 miles to Tillamook. Stop at the famous Tillamook Creamery for delicious dairy products or Jandy Oyster Co. for a tasty seafood lunch.
- From Tillamook, drive north along Highway 101 towards the coastal state parks.
- Stop at Oswald West State Park in Arch Cape and take in the sights of the coast while watching wildlife, strolling the beach, or exploring hiking trails.
- Drive another 5 miles north towards Cannon Beach and stop at the Silver Point Interpretive Overlook for some roadside sightseeing.
- Continue another three miles to Haystack Rock, one of Oregon’s most iconic natural attractions. Stop and snap a photo here!
- Continue another 9 miles and arrive in Seaside!
What are you waiting for? Plan a trip from Portland to Seaside, Oregon, and stay with The Seashore Inn on the Beach!