Activities

The community of Gearhart has worked very hard to preserve all the small town values which so many other coastal communities have lost. Strict zoning controls development. 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 was - no traffic, neon or fast food - just miles of beach and total relaxation. Gearhart Ocean Inn is the only lodging in the village area and most of the activities less than 1/2 mile away.

The Beach:
20 miles of pristine, sandy beach offers the opportunity for all kinds of activities. Bird watching, beach combing and beach walks. Swimming, kayaking, storm watching, whale watching, horse back riding and surf fishing (surf-perch). Clam digging, when it is open, is a ton of fun! Watch for the sneaker waves. We have clamming guns for guests to borrow. For kite flying, there just couldn’t be a better place to do it. There is almost always enough wind for this activity ..... sometimes too much! You can drive on the sand all the way to Fort Stevens State Park most of the year.

Shopping:
Antique shops, galleries, small retail stores and a fabulous masseuse are all close by in Gearhart. Pacific Crest Cottage, offers a unique blend of new & old interior design, linens and house wares. Visit the Natural Nook Florist & Gifts at Fitzgerald's. Wander through Back Alley Gardens. Watch & purchase handblown treasures from John Cook Glassblower Enjoy Trail's End Art Gallery. Treat yourself at 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.

Tennis:
Public courts on an old estate, one block away.

Golf:
3 public courses and a driving range within 3 miles, see the Golf page for lots of details.

Biking:
Bring bikes for the kids; Adults can borrow our complimentary beach cruisers for easy biking in the charming neighborhoods with a 20 mph speed limit. Gearhart is mostly flat with small dunes that lead to the hard beach sand along the ocean.

Dining:
McMenamins Sand Trap Bar & Grill at the Clubhouse of the historic Gearhart Golf Links, noted as the oldest 18-hole public golf course west of the Mississippi.

Fourth of July:
Classic small town parade on from North Marion Avenue to the Volunteer Fire Station on Pacific Way Americana at its best. A must see event.

Memorial Day Weekend:
What better way to kick off the summer season than with the annual Fireman's Ball? Held, where else, at the volunteer fire department, adjacent to our property. It is lots fun, for locals and visitors alike with music, dancing, and casino games. This is the one opportunity each year to show your support for local firefighters.

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.