Nautical Adventure Awaits in Newport, Oregon 

Come discover the many wonderful things that Newport, Oregon has to offer! Our bustling little coastal hub is perfectly situated between the vast forests of the Oregon Coastal Mountains and miles of sandy beach along the Pacific Ocean. Spring is a great time to visit Newport! Rain or shine, you’ll find plenty of adventure and excitement here during your coastal stay, from great restaurants, shops, and art galleries to explore, to all sorts of unique activities and expeditions to immerse yourself in.

Visit Newport’s working Historic Bayfront along the picturesque Yaquina Bay, home to the largest commercial fishing and crabbing fleet on the Oregon Coast. Stroll the one-mile strip of canneries, fish markets, art galleries, gift shops, and various eateries that coexist amid the cries of seagulls and the savory scent of fresh cooked Dungeness crab. Shop and dine in an atmosphere largely forgotten by time, visit the resident sea lions on the docks, and enjoy all of the family-friendly attractions offered at Mariner Square. You may also want to buy fresh seafood right of the docks or charter a fishing boat to catch your own ocean delicacies. In fact, we take Dungeness crab so seriously here in Newport that we trademarked the phrase “The Dungeness Crab Capital of the World!”

Newport is also home to two historic lighthouses that are a must see when you come to the coast. The Yaquina Head Lighthouse is Oregon’s tallest, and is surrounded by Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, an amazing wildlife preserve that takes you along the headland and down to the beach. The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is our other lighthouse located next to the northern entrance to the Yaquina Bay, is the only wooden Oregon lighthouse in existence, and the only remaining lighthouse with living quarters attached. Both lighthouses offer a unique experience, are easily accessible, and welcome visitors throughout the year.

Venture down to Nye Beach and wander through the many shops and galleries that this historic neighborhood has to offer.  You’ll have access to one of Oregon’s favorite beaches to hunt for shells, agates and other marine treasures scattered along the surf, or fly a kite, ride a fat-tire bike, or simply stretch out in the sand and relax to the ebb and flow of the ocean tides. Enjoy a delicious meal or snack at one of Nye Beach’s bakeries, restaurants, or cafes. Nye Beach is also home to the Newport Visual Arts Center and the Newport Performing Arts Center, where a variety of local and nationally recognized artists exhibit their work and stellar performances  and presentations take place.

Cross the Yaquina Bay Bridge over to South Beach, where you’ll find the nationally recognized Oregon Coast Aquarium. The aquarium is active in animal rehabilitation and environmental conservation and is one of Oregon’s most visited destinations. View otters, seals, sea lions, a giant Pacific octopus and numerous diverse schools of fish who live at the aquarium, which is also home to the largest seabird aviary in North America.

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You can continue to learn about aquatic and coastal lifeforms with a trip down the road to the Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon State University’s oceanographic and coastal research facility. Tour the interactive exhibits and displays that include a “touch” tank of tidal animals. Finally, stop at Aquarium Village, a nautically themed shopping center specializing in antiques, gifts, and local arts and crafts.  

Visit DiscoverNewport.com for a detailed calendar of events and a list of local businesses that will take care of every aspect of your stay. We can’t wait to welcome you to the beach!