I find myself returning to the Oregon Coast, and specifically Newport, time and time again over the last several years. There is just something about the foggy days, the variety of marine life, and the working-class feel that draws me in. Here are 5 things of my favorite things to do while in Newport.
Visit The Oregon Coast Aquarium
There is always something new to see at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Combining education and wonder, the aquarium features exhibits that tell of the local ecosystems from Sandy Shores to Coastal Waters. Visitors get an up-close view of the marine mammals, fish, seabirds, invertebrates, and plants that spend their lives in and around Newport from the depths of the Pacific Ocean to the rocky cliffs that tower over the surf. Walk through Passages of the Deep beneath giant halibut, leopard sharks, and schools of anchovies swimming in perfect formation. Experience a feeling of calm as iridescent moon jellies and sea nettles float in crystal blue waters. Outside, watch sea otters frolic in their large enclosure and listen to the squawks of common murres and pigeon guillemots in the seabird aviary.
Day passes for adults are $29.95. Be sure to ask for a discount if you have AAA.
Sail Aboard A Marine Discovery Tour
My most recent visit to Newport was the first time I took a Sea Life Cruise with Marine Discovery Tours. Within the first few minutes of our voyage on the 65-foot Discovery, I was kicking myself for not doing this before. Way more than just a boat cruise, our captain, and especially our on-board naturalist, were full of knowledge and did an amazing job of educating us about everything around us from the seabirds and marine mammals to the importance of the fishing and crabbing industry in Newport. We held a jellyfish and watched as the naturalist lead the kids through the steps of catching crabs (pause for a giggle). We even saw gray whales, which was definitely the highlight of the trip!
Tickets for the 2-hour cruise are $60.00 for adults.
Stroll Along The Historic Bayfront
I’m a sucker for exploring any town’s “main street” to discover the true nature of the community and Newport has one of the best in its historic bayfront. The first thing you notice is the constant, and I mean constant, barking coming from the colony of male sea lions packed like sardines on a floating dock just off Bay Boulevard. I always spend a chunk of my time there watching these temperamental guys jostle for the perfect position. But there’s so much more to see! The bayfront also boasts a range of shopping options from the Roger Yost Gallery to kitschy souvenir shops full of T-shirts. And oh, the food! Living in Montana with a husband that doesn’t eat fish, I relish any opportunity to gorge on seafood. Dine on crab caught just steps away at Clearwater Restaurant or book a romantic dinner at Local Ocean.
Explore The Tidepools At Yaquina Head
I feel like a kid every time I visit a tide pool and the pools at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area are some of the best along the Pacific Coast. Enter Yaquina Head just a short drive north of Newport and make your first stop at their wonderful visitor center to learn about the area’s maritime history and its flora and fauna. Explore the grounds around Oregon’s tallest lighthouse (tours are offered occasionally), then head down to the tidepools where you can wander the rocky shoreline petting starfish and sea anemones and viewing fat harbor seals basking on the rocks in the churning surf. Watch your step as the rocks are slippery and loose. Note, before heading out be sure to check the Tide Pool Discovery Times and plan accordingly as you the tidepools can only be accessed during a short window once a day at low tide.
A 3-day pass for a passenger vehicle is $7.00. America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands passes are also accepted.
Birdwatching
I cannot write a blog about Newport without including one of my favorite activities along the Pacific Coast, which is birdwatching. There are so many fabulous places to bird in the area including Yaquina Head where large flocks of common murre, pigeon guillemot and Brandt’s cormorant seek shelter among the rugged cliff faces and groups of American brown pelicans glide over the waters. Other great options are the Ocean to Bay Trail, the estuary behind the Hatfield Marine Science Center, and Boiler Bay Scenic Wayside.
Where to Stay in and Around Newport:
Hallmark Resort Newport – Upscale lodging right on the water with a fabulous restaurant, Georgie’s.
Best Western Plus Agate Beach Inn – Reasonably affordable lodging just a few miles north of Newport with amazing views and easy access to the beach.
Sea and Sand RV Park – Affordable and comfortable RV Park about a 20-minute drive north of Newport with all the amenities you need. Choose from forested campsites or sites with an ocean view to fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
