| Area Activities - Gearhart
The community of Gearhart has worked very hard to preserve all the small town values which so many other coastal communities have lost. Most of the classic, old beach homes are owned by Portland and Seattle families, many in the same family for multiple generations. Folks in Gearhart want to keep it as it has always been - no traffic, neon lights or fast food - just miles of beach and total relaxation. Gearhart Ocean Inn is the only lodging in town and most of the activities are less than a half mile away.
The Beach:
20 miles of pristine, sandy beach offers all kinds of activities: Bird watching, beach combing , walking, swimming, kayaking, storm watching, kite flying, whale watching, horse back riding and surf fishing. Clam digging, in season, is a ton of fun! We even have clam “guns” for guests to borrow. And, you can drive on the sand all the way to Fort Stevens State Park.
Shopping:
Antique shops, galleries, several small retail stores and a day spa are all close by. Dennis’ 7 Dees Garden Center at Fitzgerald’s Home and Garden & A Great Shop are just a few steps away and worth a visit. Pacific Crest Cottage is a unique blend of old & new linens and house wares. Also, John Cook Glassblower and Trails End Gallery are great spots to spend an afternoon. Try Pop’s Sweet Shop for delicious homemade fudge or a Tillamook ice cream cone or make an appointment at a local spa for some pampering.
Dine In or Out:
Gearhart Grocery is an authentic small town market with kitchen & pantry staples, fine meats, fresh fruits & vegetables and a terrific deli. There are many local fish markets to satisfy your seafood urges.
For dining, one of the finest cafés on the entire North coast and right across the street from the Inn is The Pacific Way Bakery and Café. (The Bakery has fabulous coffee and sumptuous homemade pastries.) Gearhart also is home to the newest McMenamins, Sand Trap Bar & Grill, at the Gearhart Golf Links. Nearby, there is El Mariachi Loco and the Great Wall Chinese restaurant. For breakfast, you can try Grandma’s Country Kitchen.
Tennis:
Public courts on an old estate are just one block away. (Complimentary racquets and tennis balls available)
Golf:
There are 3 public courses within 3 miles. See the Golf page for details.
Biking:
With wide quiet streets and miles of sand bike riding is safe and fun in Gearhart. Gearhart Ocean Inn has complimentary beach cruiser bikes and helmets for our guests.
Fourth of July:
Enjoy our classic small town ”Fourth of July Parade” complete with local and visiting children on their red, white and blue decorated bicycles and wagons. The parade “marches” from North Marion Avenue to the Volunteer Fire Station on Pacific Way. It is Americana at its best! Join us!
Wetlands (Estuary):
Hike and observe nature’s most abundant wildlife habitat.
Historic Ridge Path:
Just a block away, guests can walk the path behind many of the classic homes and dunes. It runs North and South, and is located just east of the Inn. An interesting way to experience Gearhart and see things you just won’t see from the streets. |