Clatsop County: Oregon’s Coastal Crossroads of History, Art, and Adventure
- Alexandra Starrett
- May 3, 2025
- 2 min read
Perched at the northwest tip of Oregon, Clatsop County is where historic charm meets salt-sprayed adventure. With sweeping coastal views, timeless seaside towns, and a rich maritime past, this region offers more than just a place to vacation—it’s a place to thrive. Whether you’re drawn by the art scene, the beach lifestyle, or the forested hills, Clatsop County has a home for every kind of dreamer.

Astoria: Oregon’s Oldest City Reimagined
Astoria sits where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, and its history runs deep—from Lewis and Clark to lumber and salmon canning. Today, it's a vibrant hillside city with a strong creative pulse, locally-owned shops and restaurants, and historic homes with stunning river views. Think: walkable neighborhoods, quirky boutiques, and art-filled lofts. It’s Portland-meets-sea in all the best ways.

Seaside: Family-Friendly, Walkable, and Fun
One of Oregon’s best-known beach towns, Seaside offers classic coastal experiences—bike rides along the Promenade, arcade games, saltwater taffy, and beach volleyball. With a year-round community and plenty of vacationers in the summer, it’s a bustling hub for short-term rentals and beach bungalows. If you love a mix of liveliness and leisure, Seaside hits the mark.

Cannon Beach: Upscale Living with Natural Wonder
Cannon Beach is all about elegance and iconic beauty. Known for Haystack Rock, boutique shopping, and upscale dining, it’s a haven for artists, vacationers, and those looking for high-end coastal homes. Nature meets culture here—with galleries, wine bars, and forest trails all within walking distance of the beach. It’s small-town coastal luxury at its finest.

Gearhart & Warrenton: Quiet Neighborhoods, Big Opportunity
North of Seaside, Gearhart is a serene beach community with a historic golf course, charming streets, and a peaceful pace. Nearby Warrenton offers newer subdivisions, shopping centers, and quick access to both the Columbia River and the ocean. These areas are ideal for those wanting more space or value, without straying far from the coastal lifestyle.

Life in Clatsop County
Clatsop County is about connection—to history, to nature, and to community. With fog-draped mornings, rainy winters, and crisp ocean air, it's a place where life moves at a different rhythm. Many residents work in hospitality, the arts, remote roles, or small business—and they stay for the sense of belonging and the unbeatable beauty.
Whether you're restoring a historic home in Astoria or setting down roots near the dunes in Gearhart, Clatsop County offers a chance to live a life shaped by the sea.



Comments