Your Family-Friendly Guide to Seabrook

Welcome to our family travel series dedicated to Pacific Northwest adventures! Join us as we explore top destinations, featuring must-see attractions, delightful dining spots, and activities tailored to the whole family. Writer Kate Neidigh launched this series in 2018 as a new mom, determined to get out and explore with her little one. Fast forward to today, and she’s now a seasoned mom of two, excited to share her travel experiences and insights learned along the way. So, pack your bags, gather the fam, and let’s discover the wonders of the PNW and beyond.

Welcome to Seabrook!

Tucked along the rugged Washington coast, Seabrook is one of those places that makes you want to sell everything, open a bakery, and wear cozy sweaters year-round. My family and I have been so many times, we practically have a favorite streetlight. It’s our go-to for everything from quick getaways to big celebrations—we’re actually planning a family reunion here for my mom’s 70th birthday (cue the group text chaos).

We recently went with close friends and all our kids—five total, ranging from age 3 to 10—and somehow, not a single adult lost their mind. If that’s not the mark of a magical vacation spot, I don’t know what is.

Here’s your no-stress, full-fun guide to Seabrook.

A Little Coastal History (Because You’re Fancy Now)

Seabrook isn’t your average beach town—it’s a master-planned coastal community that feels like it was designed with families in mind. Founded in 2004 by developer Casey Roloff, Seabrook was inspired by the principles of “new urbanism,” an urban planning movement focused on walkability, sustainability, and creating tight-knit neighborhoods. That means you won’t find sprawling parking lots or traffic jams here. Instead, you’ll find charming homes clustered around community parks, sidewalks lined with bikes and scooters, and front porches that practically invite neighborly chats.

The town was intentionally built to bring people together, and it works. Kids make fast friends on the playground or over popsicles in the town square, while parents strike up conversations at the fire pit or over coffee from the bakery. Within a day or two, you’ll recognize familiar faces on your morning walk to the beach—and by the end of the trip, it feels like everyone you pass gives a friendly wave. It’s social, but never overwhelming—just the right amount of connection to make you feel part of something.

Even though Seabrook is a relatively new addition to the Washington coast, it pays homage to the region’s rich history. Located above Pacific Beach, the area has long ties to the state’s logging and maritime industries. You’ll see that heritage reflected in Seabrook’s architecture, natural materials, and reverence for the surrounding forest and shoreline. The whole town strikes a balance between nostalgia and modern convenience—like stepping into a seaside village from another era, only with really good Wi-Fi.

Where to Stay (Good News: You Literally Can’t Mess This Up)

You can’t pick a bad house in Seabrook. It’s impossible. Whether you want ocean views, forest vibes, or something steps from the town square, every rental looks like it belongs on the cover of Coastal Living. Some homes have hot tubs. Some have fire pits. Some have bunk rooms that will send your kids into a sleepover frenzy.

Pro tip: book early. These places go fast—probably because families like mine keep coming back like it’s a pilgrimage. Book your stay here.

Things to Do (A.K.A. How to Tire Out Your Children)

Beach It: Seabrook’s beach is huge, sandy, and gloriously kid-proof. Pack shovels, snacks, and an extra outfit for your three-year-old, who will run straight into the ocean fully clothed. Access is easy via a staircase (or shuttle if you’re carrying 15 things and a toddler).

Bike Like You Live There: Rent bikes for the whole crew. The streets are safe, and the Gnome Trail is a must-ride—a whimsical forest path sprinkled with tiny gnome homes and fairy doors.

Wander the Town: Swing by Vista Bakeshop for a morning treat (just get the cinnamon roll), browse the adorable shops, and pick up souvenirs you absolutely don’t need but must have. Joie Des Livres has the cozy bookshop energy of your dreams, and Fresh Foods is clutch for midweek snack restocks.

Get Your Hike On: Even if your kids groan at the word “hike,” they’ll love the short, scenic trails around Seabrook. Elk Creek is perfect for families. Plus, anything they find on the ground becomes “nature treasure.”

Let Them Loose: There’s a playground, an indoor pool, a sport court, and seasonal events like scavenger hunts and outdoor movie nights. The kids will be living their best lives while you sip wine or hot cocoa.

Where to Eat (Because No One Wants to Cook Every Night)

Frontager’s Pizza Co. Pizza = happiness. It’s science. Parents love the wood-fired pies; kids love, well, the same thing but louder.

Koko’s Restaurant & Tequila Bar. Incredible tacos, friendly service, and the kind of margarita that makes you forget you spent 45 minutes convincing your toddler to wear pants. There’s also a solid kids’ menu, so everyone’s covered.

Sweet Life Ice Cream & Candy. This spot is basically a bribe in store form. Works every time.

Stay-In Nights. Some nights you just want to microwave mac & cheese and call it a win. Stock up at Fresh Foods or bring groceries from home—your rental kitchen will even make cooking feel fun.

Why We Keep Going Back (And You Probably Will, Too)

Seabrook is clean, charming, and easy in all the right ways. It’s built for families, designed for memory-making, and full of little surprises that make every visit feel special. You can let your kids roam a bit, enjoy that second cup of coffee, and even (gasp!) relax.

So go ahead—book the trip. Get sandy. Stay up too late. Laugh until your face hurts. Because Seabrook isn’t just a vacation spot. It’s the kind of place that sticks with you—and keeps calling you back.

Kate Neidigh is a writer for Seattle Refined, covering lifestyle, fashion, beauty, travel, real estate, gift guides and feature stories. See more of her work on Instagram here. While some products, services and/or accommodations in this story were provided without charge, the opinions within are those of the author and the Seattle Refined editorial board.