Situated on Oregon's Central Coast, Newport is a captivating city renowned for its exceptional marine attractions and beautiful beaches. It proudly hosts one of the nation's leading aquariums, where visitors can marvel at playful otters and walk through clear tunnels surrounded by sharks. Celebrated as the Dungeness Crab Capital of the World, Newport delivers an unparalleled seafood experience. This coastal gem promises an enriching visit, with abundant marine adventures. A delightful challenge for visitors often lies in choosing which of Newport's many inviting beaches to explore first.
The majestic Yaquina Head Lighthouse stands as a prominent symbol of Newport's rich heritage. This 19th-century beacon, along with the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area (which has an entrance fee for vehicles), is a must-visit. Here, you can admire Oregon's tallest lighthouse and traverse scenic hiking trails. The area also features Cobble Beach, distinguished by its unique volcanic rock formations and teeming tide pools, offering a glimpse into vibrant marine ecosystems.
Newport's culinary scene is a highlight, particularly its seafood. The Oregon Central Coast Food Trail showcases top local eateries, including Clearwater Restaurant and Local Ocean Seafoods. Both are key stops on Newport's Dungeness Crab Trail and are highly-rated seafood restaurants in the city. Clearwater Restaurant, an upscale establishment, serves gourmet dishes like Dungeness crab pasta and seared scallops. Local Ocean Seafoods offers seasonal delights such as bacon-wrapped tuna mignon and the Fisherman's Catch Roll. These restaurants are ideally situated on the historic Newport Bayfront, with Clearwater Restaurant offering views of the Sea Lion Docks, where sea lions frequently bask.
For an optimal visit to Newport, consider planning your trip during spring or summer. These seasons offer the best conditions for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing, including whale watching in nearby Depoe Bay. While some guided tours are seasonal, year-round attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area are always open. Packing layers is advisable due to fluctuating coastal temperatures. Newport offers diverse lodging options, from the charming Hotel Sylvia in Nye Beach to the highly-rated Ocean House B&B. Conveniently located within a few hours' drive from Eugene and Portland, Newport is easily accessible via Eugene Airport (EUG) or Portland International Airport (PDX), with direct flights from several major cities.