US Hways 101 and 26 meander through this city.

Seaside is split by the Necanicum river. It has spectacular ocean views and miles of public beach. Its Seaside museum displays artifacts from archaeological digs to begin a journey starting 2000 years ago. There are displays representative of Clatsop Native American history, the Lewis and Clark expedition, early pioneers, Seaside hotels from the1800's, businesses through the years, the area's railroad history, newspaper publishing, schools and fire fighting. The historic Butterfield Cottage, which is an interpretive display depicting a beach cottage of the 1912 era is on the grounds of the museum.

A quartet of judges serves in the Seaside Municipal court.