If you are looking to unwind and experience small-town charm, Gearhart, Oregon, is the perfect destination. The picturesque town, which sits along the Oregon coast, is where the renowned culinary extraordinaire James Beard spent his childhood summers. The small town has no traffic lights, offering visitors a chance to enjoy a slower pace of life.
The beach features miles of walkable coastline where you can enjoy walking, running, clamming and bonfires. When the weather is nice, pack a picnic and set down a blanket to spend some time watching the waves. There are also golf courses nearby such as Gearhart Golf Links and Seaside Golf Course.
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Here is a curated list of where to stay and eat, along with things to do in and around town.
Gearhart hotels
Twelve seaside cottages range from classic king rooms to a two-bedroom Haven Suite that sleeps up to six guests. All accommodations feature an electric fireplace, a microwave and cozy sitting areas. Some suites have a full-size refrigerator and stove, so plan to stay in and make dinner one night. Wake up to a complimentary breakfast delivered to your doorstep every morning. Bicycles and beach wagons are available to borrow for exploring — the beach is only a five-minute walk away. Guests can also select and pay for add-ons to their stay such as a s’mores kit delivered to the room prior to arrival. Rates start at $135.
McMenamins, a Pacific Northwest restaurant and hotel group staple, is behind this hotel within a short walk to the beach. The Gearhart location offers accommodations in the main lodge building as well as a recently added annex featuring 16 rooms that afford more privacy. King, queen and bunk bed rooms are available. The hotel overlooks the 18-hole Gearhart Golf Links course; the annex is also home to the Swingers Lounge Golf and Fitness Center, a virtual golfing experience that guests can enjoy. Loaner bikes are available, which is a great option because Gearhart is small and quaint. Rates start at $113. Children ages 6 and under stay free with an adult.
Gearhart home rental
Book this Vrbo rental, which is within several minutes walking distance to the beach. The condo has two bedrooms and two full baths, perfect for families or friends traveling together. Designed to reflect elegant coastal living with neutral tones and beach-inspired pops of color, the rental allows one pet with a fee of $15 per night, according to Vrbo. Rates start at $180 per night.
Where to eat in Gearhart
Located inside McMenamin's Gearhart hotel, this pub serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Order a pizza with all the fixings or a burger; you cannot go wrong here.
Dinner at El Trio Loco is a must. The restaurant serves authentic Mexican cuisine at its finest — from house-made guacamole to enchiladas and fajitas. Don’t miss the tostada salads — they are divine!
Grab breakfast in neighboring Seaside at a staple for both locals and visitors alike. Serving up classics like eggs and waffles along with bacon and egg sandwiches, you will leave satisfied as portions are generous.
Things to do in Gearhart
The Necanicum Estuary Natural History Park is a three-minute drive from Gearhart and provides ample opportunity for wildlife sighting with trails, a viewing platform and access to the beach.
Known for its antique shops, Gearhart is a shopper’s delight, starting with the Pacific Crest Cottage, which sells vintage items at a great price. In neighboring Seaside, the Seaside Antique Mall is another stop for all things vintage. Chock full of items from more than 80 dealers, browse through jewelry, books, toys and even big-ticket items such as furniture. Small boutiques are also plentiful in the town. Gearhart’s By The Way has a gift shop that sells local crafts and other items.
The Sweet Shop, which sold ice cream, coffee and pastries, was recently purchased by model Ireland Baldwin and Grammy-winning musician André Allen Anjos, according to a report by the Seaside Signal that is also posted on the shop's website. The pair have plans to reopen "soon" as Good Times café and wine bar, their website says, and they have documented the renovation on Instagram.