The Cove

The Cove breaks as a point break on the south end of Seaside's beach, where sand transitions into rocky terrain with boulders. It produces both left and right-hand waves, with the left point being particularly notable. Rides can stretch 50 to 150 meters. The break works across all tidal stages but responds best to northwest swell paired with east-facing (offshore) winds. Winter brings the most consistent conditions, particularly in December. The outside pocket requires solid technique; intermediate to advanced surfers will find the most quality waves here.

The Cove entered the regional surfing consciousness in 1963 when Dick Wald, a Portland diver and waterman, was swept south by a rip current while surfing Avenue U with another surfer. This accidental discovery led them into the break's peaks and channel. The Cove's physical geography shifted dramatically in the late 1980s: the beach accreted significantly after 1987, pushing the shoreline seaward by more than 800 feet in stretches, which reshaped how surfers access and navigate the break.

Access to the Cove is straightforward from the town of Seaside, roughly 80 miles northwest of Portland. The spot is known among locals, which comes with typical localism. Hazards include strong rip currents, rocks scattered throughout the break, and a shark presence in the waters—none of which are unexpected for the Oregon coast, but all warrant respect and awareness before paddling out.