The best family beaches around Seaside are Seaside Beach, The Cove, Sunset Beach State Recreation Site and Del Rey Beach, and for most families the main Seaside Beach is the place to start. It has restrooms, showers and picnic tables near the entrance, and the sand is fine enough for serious sandcastles. The Cove at the south end is for tide pools at low tide, Sunset Beach is the wide, quiet one a short drive north, and Del Rey is for shells and driftwood. This is the open Pacific, so plan on digging and wading at the edge rather than swimming. We rate a beach by how far you carry the cooler and how close the bathroom is. Below you will find what each beach has, which lots are free, and where to park before the main beach fills.
Family Beaches in Seaside: At-A-Glance
| Beach Name | Key Amenity | Booking Options |
|---|---|---|
| Seaside Beach | Restrooms/Showers | View Details → |
| The Cove | Restrooms | View Details → |
| Sunset Beach | Picnic Area | View Details → |
| Del Rey Beach | Beach Path | View Details → |
Seaside Beach
The main beach is right in town and the easiest one to reach.
- The Beach: Fine, soft sand that holds a sandcastle well.
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers and picnic tables near the entrance.
- Tip: Street parking early in the day saves a long walk from the busy lots.
Good to know: As the main beach it gets busy. Mornings are easier.
The Cove
The Cove, at the south end of town, is rockier than the main beach and is the place for tide pools.
- The Beach: Low tide uncovers pools of sea creatures that older kids like to poke around.
- Facilities: Benches for watching and restrooms.
- Tip: Water shoes help on the rocks around the pools.
Good to know: The lot is free but tiny, so have a second choice ready.
Sunset Beach State Recreation Site
Sunset Beach is a state recreation site north of town, and it sees far fewer people than Seaside Beach.
- The Beach: Wide and flat, with room for kites and ball games.
- Facilities: Picnic areas and hiking trails, so you can stay most of the day.
- Tip: Bring a picnic and stay for the sunset.
Good to know: It is a drive from town, so pack food and drinks before you leave.
Del Rey Beach
Del Rey Beach is the one for beachcombing, with lots of space to spread out.
- The Beach: A wide stretch where shells and driftwood wash up.
- Facilities: A beach access path and picnic tables.
- Tip: Set up close to the access path to keep the walk short.
Good to know: The gravel lot is free but rough, so take it slowly.
FAQs About Family Beaches in Seaside
Which beach is best for toddlers?
Seaside Beach, mainly because the restrooms, showers and picnic tables are close by, which makes snack breaks and changes easy. It is still the open Pacific, so keep toddlers at the water’s edge with an adult.
Are these beaches free to access?
Mostly, yes. The Cove and Del Rey have free lots, and the others are free or low cost. Check the signs when you arrive, because seasonal rules change.
What should I pack for a lazy beach day?
A light blanket, snacks packed at home, plenty of water and a few sand toys. Less to carry means more time sitting down.
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