From sandcastles to sand dollars, there’s no argument Seaside’s beach is a great draw for families visiting from out of town. But what if your kids ask for a play set, a place to paddle or a ramble along a path to watch for birds? All of this is possible with a side quest to one of Seaside’s unique city parks. From playgrounds to pump tracks, boat rentals and skate parks, here are six options in Seaside to make your vacation even more fun. 

Great Parks for Dog Walking and Wildlife Watching

Flanking the north side of town, North Gateway Park is popular with dog walkers, hikers and birders. Toss a Frisbee in the grassy expanse near the entrance or follow one of the trails that overlook the Neawanna Creek estuary. As you explore, keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk as local herds are commonly spotted grazing here.  

Smaller in size but equal in beauty is Seltzer Park in South Seaside. Benches lining the park’s paved pathway are arguably some of the best seats for spotting surfers, sea lions and sunsets. When you find you need to stretch your legs, the entrance point to Seaside Cove is easily accessible on the ocean side of Sunset Boulevard. Kite flying and tide-pool exploration are popular activities here. 

Carve, Shred and Drop Into Adventure

Traveling with BMX bikes in tow? Surprise your kids with an adrenaline-filled outing on the pump track at Cartwright Park on South Franklin Street in South Seaside. A playground of its own accord, the pump course features rollers, banked curves and shallow jumps that will have kids tuckered out in the best way by the end of the day. Tots too tiny for the track will love the swings, slide and sunken pirate ship play structure found in the park’s nearby playground. Or use the park’s boat ramp and take them out on a nautical adventure of your own. 

If ramps and bowls are more your style, grab your skateboard, skates or scooters and drop into the skate park housed inside Broadway Park at 1300 Broadway Street. There’s something for almost every athlete there or nearby — from basketball courts and baseball diamonds to soccer and football fields. There’s even an accessible river kayak launch. 

Kids who prefer unstructured play will be pleased to explore the playground lot with plenty of swings, slides and climbing structures for everyone. Parents and grandparents can rest easy and supervise with plenty of seating both on the bleachers and under one of the covered picnic pavilions. For more information about the indoor pool and summer events adjacent to the park check out the Sunset Empire Parks + Recreation District website. 

Make a Splash on the River

Families looking for a respite from the bright lights and bustling crowds on the Seaside Promenade will love the location and the vibe at Quatat Park. Overlooking the Necanicum River just north of the Upper Broadway district, this park features ample seating on its oversize deck, the perfect place to sit and enjoy the ice cream or legendary Pronto Pup you bought as a snack nearby.

When you’re finished, venture down to the water’s edge on the park’s fishing dock, a location that doubles as the watercraft-rental spot for Wheel Fun Rentals. Hourly aquatic-rental options include floating pedal trikes, swan boats, stand-up paddleboards, and single and double kayaks. Have the kids keep watch for marine life as you travel along the popular path headed south, around the island and back.

Looking to toss in a fishing line or try your hand at crabbing in the Necancium River instead? Seaside’s 12th Avenue Bridge is a local hot spot — check out this guide for tips and where to purchase a required license. For easiest access, head north on Necancium Drive and find a parking spot at nearby Elvin C. Goodman Park. Kids can enjoy the park’s playground equipment, unique climbing features and a basketball hoop while your pots soak, helping to keep everyone from being too crabby at the end of the day.