The Oregon Coast is spread around sprawling beaches, pebbly cliffs and stroke spruce forests. It is the true jewel of the Northwest. Visitors can settle into sleepy seaside villages or explore the excitement of historic small towns.
One of those towns is Newport, Oregon. This lively little town summons travelers with its pristine beaches, momentous Bayfront, historic restaurants, and boundless activities.
Visiting Newport recently, we have discovered the magic of this enchanting little town and its surroundings, and we will like to share it with you.
NYE Beach and breathtaking sunsets
This breathtaking Oregon Coast Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Newport. Spread out for miles, it offers gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean. Here, you can splurge in for a romantic picnic, endless walks, or swim in the summer. NYE Beach is where the sky touches the ocean and you can witness the most spectacular sunsets. It is the perfect place “to escape “and “fill your batteries”. Dog friendly, and easily accessible from beachside hotels, or town.
The majestic Otter Rock and surfing opportunities
Devils Punch Bowl Sate Natural area is a state park located about 8 miles north of Newport. There stands the “hidden marvel “of nature, the Majestic Otter Rock. Centered on a massive bowl, naturally carved in a rock cape, and partially opened to the Pacific Ocean, this beautiful place is a must see. Watch the waves “crashing” into the rocks, while enjoying mind-blowing sunsets. Outside the bowl, ocean conditions are very attractive to surfers, particularly near an immense offshore pinnacle Gull Rock. Thrilling, yet challenging because of its enormous waves, this place will be no disappointment even for the most experienced surfers.
Yaquina Bay Bridge and spectacular views
This bridge is of Conde McCullough’s most photographed bridges, due to its dramatic soaring steel arch. At each end this bridge has stairways leading to observation areas, and pedestrian walkthroughs. This bridge offers spectacular views of Newport, both day and night.
Yaquina Bay Lighthouse
This beautiful lighthouse was lit only from 1871 till 1874 but saw its light again in 1996.
Interesting Facts: It is the only wooden lighthouse on the Oregon Coast. Also, the only lighthouse on the Oregon Coast with living quarters.
The Bayfront and delicious local foods
Enjoy assorted restaurants, galleries and gift shops, at the home of the biggest commercial fishing fleet in Oregon. Observe directly how local fisherman dock in with outsized catches and enjoy the playful sea lions “lounging” on the waterfront. If you are visiting Bayfront at Newport, make sure you try their delicious dungeness crab at Clear Water Restaurant.
Interesting Fact: Newport, Oregon is dungenees crab capitol of the world.
While at the Newport Bayfront, also make sure you dine at the historic Mo’s Seafood and Chowder. Outfitted with a “rich” history of 75 years, and with delicious seafood, this place has the best Chowder soup in the area.
Ripley’s (Believe it or not) and Vax museum
Imagine traveling to over 200 countries worldwide, but never flying to get there! That’s what Mr. Robert Ripley did… Join the world of adventure, with his fun and engaging museum, located in the Historic Newport Bayfront. Whether you believe or not, is up to you, but this museum offers displays of the most unique, bizarre and educational things that Mr. Ripley discovered during his world travels. Check out his true in size wax figure of the world’s tallest man, refresh your knowledge about the astonishing discoveries of Nikola Tesla, and learn about the most interesting and unique world fashion throughout the years. This museum offers something for all of us. While here, indulge yourself in fun and interactive optical illusion rooms, a wax museum featuring popular artists and movie characters, and interactive games that offer no shortage of fun.
Oregon Coast Aquarium and learning about Pacific Ocean water world
This top 10’s Nation aquarium it’s a non-profit organization, that has a mission to create special and appealing experience, and to connect all visitors to Oregon Coast, as well as inspire Ocean Conservation. The Oregon Coast Aquarium offers amazing indoor and outdoor exhibits and is opened all throughout the year. In the inside area, you will find enormous water tanks with various fish and sea creatures.
Have you ever visited Newport, Oregon? What was the best and the most interesting thing about it? Let us know in the comments bellow.