Though we love summer’s long sunny days, something magical happens when the clouds roll off the ocean and onto Seaside’s shoreline in fall. The fresh rainfall has a way of inviting you to slow down, take in the fresh air and head indoors to explore downtown boutiques, attractions, and places to eat and drink with new appreciation. With few crowds and plenty of parking, there’s so much to enjoy in the cooler season in Seaside.
Coffee and a Walk in the Rain
The obvious first stop on an ultimate rainy-day itinerary is at one of Seaside’s many coffee shops to acquire a warm drink. Coffee, tea or cocoa are all perfect ways to ease you into a day of drizzly adventure. Grab a drink for an on-the-go warmer or sit a spell and take in the comforting sound of raindrops hitting the window. The house-roasted beans at Burly & the Bean Coffee Roasters make great lattes, and you can even get hands-on and roast your own coffee blends. Check out the drink of the day at centrally located Beach Day Coffee or artfully crafted espresso creations from Seaside Coffee House.
Next it’s time for the rainy action. Take a moment to appreciate rain like an Oregonian: Is it misting, spitting, showering or downpouring? In any event, dramatic skies are sure to accompany. Head down to the Prom to feel the exhilaration of droplets splashing onto your face as you take in the show overhead.
Every storm is unique, so it’s no wonder so many visitors come to the Coast in the winter specifically for storm watching. One day you can witness wind-whipped waves that look like a painting and another day watch mesmerized as sun rays pierce through dark, eerie clouds.
Unless the waves are wild or the tide is high — consult Seaside’s handy online tide tables for times or pop by the Visitor Center for a guide that has them printed for you — venture out onto the beach. You can feel the rain-sprinkled sand crunch between your toes and breathe in the wonderful mix of seaspray and rainfall. Just remember to keep safety in mind and never turn your back on the ocean.
Rainy Retail for Gear and Gifts
You’ll definitely want to take some time to explore Seaside’s excellent shopping scene. If you forgot to bring your raincoat — in which case, shopping should be your first stop — you can pick up some rain gear at several of the stores at the Seaside Outlets north of town. Downtown you’ll find other clothing gems like C & R Mercantile, Cotton Club and Ter Har’s, all of which have a great selection of stylish attire. For something especially cozy, check out the sweaters, socks, and textiles made from alpaca wool at Inca’s Inc.
For the perfect memento, try By the Sea Shells & Gifts or the nooks and crannies stuffed with treasures at the Seaside Antique Mall. Planning to hang out in your hotel and read by the fire? First stop by Beach Books, where the friendly staff can help you find the perfect book by an Oregon author. If your perfect rainy afternoon involves knitting or making art, head over to Crafted in Seaside, which sells craft kits alongside handmade creations of local artists.
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Rediscover Seaside’s Classic Attractions
If you’re traveling with your family, Seaside is thrilling on a rainy day. Kids love the video games, the bumper cars and the classic entertainment of Fascination at Funland Arcade. Pair it with a visit to Seaside Carousel Mall, where you can ride the carousel, of course, but also play a game of laser tag or try your hand at all kinds of arcade or video games. For a change of perspective — and an Instagram-worthy photo opp — try the Seaside Inverted Experience, which lets you see what life looks like upside down.
Animal lovers of all ages can learn more about the ocean’s marine creatures at the Seaside Aquarium. Pro tip: If you go, try to time your visit around an opportunity to feed the seals (weekdays at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; no set schedule on the weekends).
Those seeking more adult-focused activity can sample Oregon wine and beer at one of Seaside’s many tasting rooms, taprooms and bottle shops. Settle in under the chandeliers at Hop & Vine for a pint and a local cheese plate, or sample award-winning ports and fruit wines at Buddha Kat Winery’s tasting room.
With all these great possibilities, you may even find yourself booking another trip before winter is done.
