Welcome to Newport Oregon, an exciting town on the beautiful Oregon coastline that is definitely worth a visit!
There is no shortage of fun Newport Oregon activities to enjoy, including exploring stunning beaches near Newport Oregon, memorable viewpoints, and unique natural areas.
In addition, don’t forget to explore fun Newport Oregon things to do in town like the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the Newport historic bayfront, and local bakeries and restaurants Newport has to offer.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about planning your visit, including what to see, where to eat, and the best places to stay in Newport Oregon!
We love Newport and have been here many times to surf, hang out on the beach, and enjoy other things to do in Newport Oregon!
We are excited to share our knowledge of Newport Oregon activities with you. So, pack your sense of adventure and let’s plan your visit!
Newport Oregon: Overview
The city of Newport Oregon is a relatively large beach town on the central Oregon coast with so much to offer visitors.
Within town, enjoy exploring the Oregon Coast Aquarium, historic bayfront, the Nye Beach area, and great options for dining in Newport Oregon.
Outside of town, it is just a short drive to beautiful natural areas, state parks, and beaches Newport Oregon has to offer.
In fact, the activities in town and ample number of things to do around Newport Oregon make this area great for multi-day visits.
Whatever you’re into, Newport Oregon has something for you!
Newport Oregon Map
Use the interactive map below to get your bearings. You will see the locations mentioned in this article. You can also expand the map to view it in a new window.
Getting to Newport Oregon
Newport is located on the central Oregon coast at the intersection between Highway 101 and Highway 20.
Newport Oregon is about 2.5 hours from Portland, 45 minutes from Corvallis, and 1.5 hours from Salem.
As a result, Newport Oregon makes for a great day trip from many places in the Willamette Valley.
At the same time, an overnight stay makes for a more immersive experience! We’ll cover the best places to stay in Newport Oregon below.
When to Visit Newport Oregon
On the Oregon Coast, Summer generally has the warmest temperatures, but it can be foggy when it’s extra hot inland.
Spring and Fall can have both really nice days and not so great days. Winter is the most windy, rainy, and stormy.
However, there’s more to consider. You may enjoy the chaos of dramatic winter storm watching, or seeing whales during their spring migration, or getting the best sunsets in spring and fall.
Learn way more in our full article about when to visit the Oregon Coast.
Things to do in Newport Oregon
There is no shortage of fun things to do in Newport Oregon and also spots within a short drive. Check out these places to see in Newport Oregon.
Stroll the Quaint Nye Beach Newport Area
Nye Beach, Newport Oregon is a fun and walkable part of Newport that has tasty restaurants and cafes, as well as cute shops and easy beach access.
As a result, Nye Beach is a great place to spend a few hours walking around and taking in the vibe, especially if you are hungry, or in need of a coffee or local beer.
Local tip: We recommend the Panini Bakery (affordable and delicious) and the Taphouse at Nye Creek (big portions and local beer).
In addition, there is a parking lot right next to the beach, which is great for those who can’t walk too far or if you have a wagon, cooler, or other gear.
From what we have seen, this is one of the more accessible beaches Newport Oregon has to offer.
Local Tip: Parking at Nye Beach can be tough. Don’t be surprised if you have to search a bit for a parking spot. You can also park just up the street at the Newport Performing Arts Center.
Walk the Charming Newport Historic Bayfront
Located in the heart of the city along Yaquina Bay, the Newport Historic Bayfront is a dynamic waterfront area with shops, restaurants, cafes, pubs, murals and views.
In our opinion, if you only have an hour or two in Newport, you should spend it here.
Stroll the bayside docks and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the marina. Enjoy fresh seafood like clam chowder and fish and chips.
In fact, some restaurants like the Clearwater Restaurant and Mo’s Seafood and Chowder have tables overlooking the bay.
Local tip: You can often see sea lions lounging on the docks near the Clearwater Restaurant. This spot is actually called “Sea Lion Docks” on Google Maps.
Overall, you could easily spend 2 hours or longer in the Newport Historic Bayfront. It’s also a good idea to come hungry and find a bite to eat.
The Historic Bayfront has some of the most accessible Newport Oregon sights, with great views of the docks, marina, and Yaquina Bay bridge just steps from your car.
Local Tip: You might pop into the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center for a glimpse into how the ocean has shaped Newport as it stands today.
Also, one of the more unusual things to do in Newport Oregon is the Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum.
Discover Local Marine Life at the Oregon Coast Aquarium Newport
The Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport Oregon will capture the interests of the entire family.
With multiple engaging indoor and outdoor exhibits and helpful staff, you are sure to have an educational and memorable experience learning about the animals that all the coast home.
The Oregon Aquarium Newport Oregon is a large facility that showcases live animal exhibits. From touch and feel tanks, to walk through tunnel aquariums, to sea otters and an aviary, there is so much to explore!
The whole family can spend a few hours here. In addition, there is also an outdoor playground area, a cafe, and a gift shop. Overall, we highly recommend a visit here.
Local Tip: If you’re into bird watching, or just appreciate a good quality estuary, check out the Yaquina Bay Estuary Trail right next to the aquarium.
Learn Local History at the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center
Looking to learn about the maritime history of Newport and the Oregon Coast? Add the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center to your Newport itinerary.
This insightful and thought-provoking educational center will teach you about the history of the local fishing industry through film, art, and other engaging exhibits.
In addition, there are great views of Yaquina Bay and the historic bayfront. Overall, this is a great stop to learn how the ocean has supported industry and shaped Newport into what it is today.
Enjoy a Beach Day at Agate Beach Newport
Newport Oregon Agate Beach is a welcoming beach just a few minutes north of Newport.
Agate is a great beach for a long walk, setting up a blanket, having a bonfire, or even surfing!
There are two parking lots to access Agate Beach (a north and south lot) and both rarely fill up.
Local tip: We recommend the north access point because the beach there is protected by Yaquina Head, which usually means it’s less windy.
It is about a 5-minute walk from the parking lot down a hill and a set of stairs to the beach, so don’t bring too many things unless you want a workout.
We love to surf at Agate Beach, and if the conditions are good, you’ll likely see people surfing which can be fun to watch.
Local Tip: There is a surf shop called Ossie’s Surf Shop right across the street from the parking lot. This is a great place to rent surf gear or take a lesson!
Learn more in our full article about Agate Beach Oregon.
Explore the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Yaquina Head is just north of Agate Beach, only a few minutes from Newport. In fact, the full name of this beautiful chunk of rock is Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area.
It lives up to the lofty name by offering excellent hiking, expansive viewpoints, a lighthouse, unique beaches, and an excellent visitor center.
Whether you do one or all of these activities, we think Yaquina Head is super cool and definitely worth a stop.
In fact, you can spend anywhere from 1 hour to a full day here taking in the views and learning about the history of this area in the visitor center.
When you visit, don’t miss the one and only Yaquina Head Lighthouse Newport, Oregon has to offer.
We also recommend taking a look at Quarry Cove, which is an old quarry that is now a playground for the waves, birds, and seals.
Local Tip: A fee is required to enter but it is worth it. Learn more about eligible passes. You can also enjoy a ranger-led tour of the Yaquina Head lighthouse.
Hike, Bike, or Camp at South Beach State Park
Located just south of Newport, South Beach State Park offers an excellent campground and day use area.
There are several places to access the beach, and lots of fun hiking and biking trails to explore, with both paved and unpaved options.
We love the trails through the dunes that lead to the beach and even provide views of the Yaquina Bay Bridge.
The South Beach State Park Campground is our favorite place to camp near Newport because of the great trails, pleasant campsites, and proximity to town.
South Beach State Park is especially great to enjoy by camping, but the day use area is still nice to visit without spending the night.
Be aware: The beach here is unprotected and usually windy. If you want to set out a blanket and have a fire, check the weather forecast. You can always go to Agate Beach or Otter Rock instead.
Otter Rock and Devil’s Punchbowl
Located 10 minutes north of Newport, Otter Rock and Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural is one of the best attractions near Newport Oregon.
There is a unique sandstone cliff that provides a great vantage point over the beach below and the beautiful coastline.
Also, Devil’s Punchbowl is the name for a huge hole and arch in the sandstone, which is quite interesting to witness. You can even walk down inside the punchbowl during low tide.
In addition, you can walk down a long set of stairs to access Otter Rock Beach (on the south side of Otter Rock) which is pretty and a nice place to explore.
Overall, you could spend anywhere from 10 minutes to 2 hours exploring Otter Rock, and longer if you want to hang out on the beach.
Be aware: There is very limited parking, which can fill up on busy weekends. Be respectful of the community and don’t park in people’s yards.
Learn more in our full article about Otter Rock and Devil’s Punchbowl.
Day trip from Newport: Drive to Cape Perpetua
If you are interested in exploring a unique part of the Oregon Coast near Newport, drive south on Highway 101 for 30 minutes until you reach Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.
This rugged and rocky part of the coastline is a spectacle to behold, offering incredible hiking trails, amazing views, and an excellent visitor center.
In fact, the Cape Perpetua headland is the highest viewpoint accessible by car on the Oregon Coast!
These old growth rainforests, expansive vistas, and unique rocky cliffs will take your breath away.
Overall, Cape Perpetua is one of the best things to do near Newport Oregon, if you are willing to drive half an hour.
Local Tip: Stop for a bit to explore the town of Yachats and enjoy other roadside viewpoints along the way.
Enjoy Great Food and Drink: Newport Oregon Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars
There are a variety of great flavors to explore at the best Newport Oregon restaurants. In fact, we have found the food in Newport Oregon to be exceeding our expectations overall.
Coffee, Cafes, Bakeries in Newport Oregon
For your morning coffee, breakfast, and pastries, check out these options:
| Location | Description |
| Panini Bakery | An excellent bakery in Nye Beach with pastries, coffee, smoothies, sandwiches, bread, and pizza for an affordable price. |
| Coasties Roasties | A coffee shop with tasty brews and lovely baked goods. |
| Blue Pig Bakery | A highly rated bakery in Nye Beach with amazing baked goods, soups, and sandwiches. Their cinnamon rolls and truffles are popular. |
| Camp One Coffee and Donuts | A small shop serving donuts, coffee, and breakfast burritos. There is a drive through but no indoor seating. |
| Nye Beach Cafe | A cozy restaurant and cafe in Nye Beach offering a variety of tasty food including breakfast burritos, biscuits and gravy, omelets, and sandwiches. |
| Cafe Stephanie | A solid breakfast joint in Nye Beach offering french toast, quiche, omelets, crepes, hashes, and more! This is one of the top breakfast restaurants in Newport Oregon. |
Restaurants Newport Oregon
When it comes time to fill up the tank for lunch and dinner, check out some of the best Newport Oregon restaurants. These places to eat in Newport Oregon will tingle your taste buds!
| Location | Description |
| Georgie’s Beachside Grill | A beachside American restaurant with seafood focused menu and views of the ocean. Perfect for enjoying a sunset with dinner. |
| Clearwater Restaurant | A restaurant serving fairly fancy fare including seafood, pasta, sandwiches and cocktails in the historic bayfront. |
| Chowder Bowl | Fish and chips and bread bowls whipped up in the upbeat Nye Beach area. |
| Pacific Kitchen at Nye Beach | Seafood, burgers, beers on tap, and cocktails. What more can you ask for? |
| Local Ocean Seafoods | Salads, sandwiches, and seafood served at an inviting location in the historic bayfront. |
| Zurita in Nye Beach | An incredible and authentic Spanish tapas restaurant with excellent food and decor to match. |
Breweries, Taphouses, Pubs, and Wineries
If you want to sample the local beer and wine, check out the following options.
| Location | Description |
| Newport Brewing Company | Newport Brewing Company is a brewery and restaurant in Newport, Oregon, offering a variety of craft beers including their flagship Dungeness IPA, vegan options, and a dog-friendly outdoor patio. |
| Rogue Bayfront Public House | Rogue Bayfront Public House is Rogue’s oldest pub in Newport, Oregon, offering 35 taps of Rogue brews, a full menu, and a dog-friendly patio with a view of the historic bayfront. |
| Bier One Brewing | Bier One Brewing is a popular brewpub in Newport’s Deco District, known for its rotating selection of craft beers and ciders, casual atmosphere, food, and entertainment options like pool and darts. |
| The Taphouse at Nye Creek | The Taphouse at Nye Creek is a welcoming bar and eatery in Newport, Oregon, known for its cozy covered patio, diverse beer selection with over 30 taps, and a menu featuring wood-fired pizzas and pub classics, catering to various dietary preferences including vegan and gluten-free options. |
| Myril Eatery & Wine Bar | A newer wine bar and restaurant in the historic bayfront that is up and coming! They serve great food and drinks with a nice view of the harbor. |
Shopping in Newport Oregon
Although Newport is a small town, there are still some great options for Newport Oregon shopping. Check out the following options for shopping in Newport Oregon.
The Nye Beach Area offers a variety of shopping experiences, including boutique stores like Mind Body Soul Journey for spiritual readings and energy work, Archway Market for PNW souvenirs and treats, and Nye Beach Book House for a diverse selection of books.
Additionally, the Historic Bayfront area features unique shops such as Made in Oregon for local artisan foods and souvenirs, Specifically Pacific for clothing, The Galley Kitchen Shop for kitchen supplies, and Newport Candy Shoppe for a wide selection of sweets.
Both areas provide a rich assortment of items ranging from handcrafted art and jewelry to gourmet foods and wines, ensuring a memorable shopping experience for visitors.
Places to Stay in Newport Oregon
In between all those fun activities, you’ll need a place to rest your head. There are a variety of lodging Newport Oregon options, including some excellent Newport Oregon hotels on the beach.
You can choose between Newport Oregon hotels, resorts, RV parks, and vacation home rentals when choosing from Newport Oregon places to stay. These are some of the best hotels in Newport Oregon.
Sylvia Beach Hotel Newport Oregon
One of the more unique places to stay in Newport Oregon, the Sylvia Beach Hotel is a historic hotel built in 1912.
It’s not your typical seaside resort, but rather a literary-themed haven for book lovers and writers.
Needless to say, this is one of the more unique places to stay in Newport Oregon. In fact, each of the 21 rooms in the Newport Sylvia Beach Hotel is decorated and named after a famous author, such as J.R.R. Tolkien, Mark Twain, and Alice Walker.
You can immerse yourself in the world of your favorite writer, enjoy the ocean view from the windows, or curl up with a book in the library or on the deck.
The hotel also offers a quality breakfast included in the cost of the room. Delicious dinners are also served every night for a great price.
Overall, Sylvia Hotel Newport Oregon is a charming and relaxing place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, especially for bookworms.
Best Western Newport Oregon
The Best Western Plus Agate Beach Inn in Newport, Oregon, also called the Agate Beach Best Western, is a full-service hotel that provides a comfortable stay with amenities like air conditioning, hot tub, in-room refrigerators and microwaves, and cable satellite TV.
Guests can enjoy the Sea Glass Bistro & Lounge for dining, and the hotel’s location offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Agate Beach, and the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.
The Best Western Agate Beach Oregon is also pet-friendly, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the coastal getaway. Overall, this is an excellent option among Newport Oregon accommodations.
Comfort Inn Newport Oregon
The Comfort Inn in Newport Oregon offers a convenient and comfortable stay just a short walk from the scenic Nye Beach.
Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free high-speed internet, a daily hot breakfast, and a fitness center.
The hotel’s location also provides easy access to local attractions such as the Oregon Coast Aquarium and the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore the area.
La Quinta Inn Newport Oregon
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Newport, often shortened to La Quinta Newport Oregon, offers a relaxing stay with amenities like free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen cable TV, and an indoor pool and hot tub.
Located near the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Nye Beach, it’s an ideal spot for accessing fun things to do in Newport Oregon.
The hotel also features a fitness center, business center, and pet-friendly rooms, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.
Embarcadero Hotel Newport Oregon
The Embarcadero Resort in Newport, Oregon, offers guests a serene bayfront experience with rooms that boast views of Yaquina Bay.
The Embarcadero Newport Oregon features an indoor heated pool, hot tub, and sauna. You can also rent a crabbing boat and pots, then cook up your haul using boiling pots or a BBQ.
Accommodations range from spacious studios to suites, all equipped with modern conveniences like microwaves, refrigerators, and flat-screen TVs.
The resort’s location is ideal for exploring local attractions, including Rogue Ales Public House and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Little Creek Cove Newport Oregon
Little Creek Cove in Newport, Oregon, is a beachfront hotel offering a unique stay with each unit featuring a fully equipped kitchen, ocean views, and private beach access to Agate Beach.
The accommodations range from cozy studios to spacious suites, all with fireplaces, full kitchens, and private terraces facing the ocean.
Guests can enjoy the tranquility of the property’s wildlife pond and the convenience of free Wi-Fi and EV charging, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the coast.
Hallmark Resort Newport Oregon
The Hallmark Resort in Newport, Oregon, is a beachfront property offering stunning ocean views from every room, some with balconies or patios.
Guests can enjoy amenities such as an indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, and fitness center. Dining options include the on-site Georgie’s Beachside Grill, serving northwest coast cuisine.
The resort is conveniently located near attractions like Yaquina Bay Lighthouse and the Historic Bayfront. Not to mention the beach is just steps from your door at Hallmark Newport Oregon!
Other Places to Stay in Newport Oregon
You can also find a number of excellent Newport Oregon vacation rentals, including Airbnb Newport Oregon. These Newport Oregon beach rentals offer a different (potentially better) way to stay in Newport, depending on your requirements.
You can also check out what options Vacasa Newport Oregon and VRBO Newport Oregon has to offer.
Newport Oregon FAQ
These are some of the most common questions about Newport!
Why is Newport Oregon famous?
Newport is known for its beautiful beaches, nearby natural areas, and cute parts of town. In addition, the numerous restaurants and unique Newport Oregon hotels are a draw for many people.
Furthermore, there are a number of great tourist attractions Newport Oregon has to offer like Nye Beach, the Historic Bayfront, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Is Newport Oregon worth visiting?
Yes! Newport is most definitely worth visiting. There are lots of fun things to do in Newport Oregon including visiting nearby natural areas, exploring fun Newport activities in town, and enjoying excellent restaurant and accommodation options.
How to spend a day in Newport Oregon?
A day in Newport can be spent exploring the Historic Bayfront, visiting the Oregon Coast Aquarium, and enjoying the scenic beaches like Nye Beach.
What does Newport Oregon have to offer?
Newport offers a rich maritime history, stunning natural landscapes, and attractions such as the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon Coast Aquarium, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
As you can tell, there are lots of cool things to do in Newport Oregon!
What is the main industry in Newport Oregon?
The main industries in Newport include commercial and sport fishing, fish processing, shipping, tourism, and lumber and wood processing.
What to wear in Newport Oregon?
Due to the variable coastal weather, it’s recommended to wear layers, including a waterproof jacket, and to bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the beaches and town.
Can you swim in the ocean in Newport Oregon?
Swimming in the ocean is possible but should be done with caution due to cold water temperatures, strong currents, and frequent rough conditions.
Does Newport Oregon have a beach?
Yes, Newport has several beautiful beaches, including Nye Beach and Agate Beach, which are popular for their expansive sandy shores and recreational activities.
Does Newport Oregon have an old town?
Newport’s Historic Bayfront serves as Newport’s “old town district”, offering a glimpse into the town’s past with its array of shops, restaurants, and a museum.
It’s hard to define a true downtown Newport Oregon area, but the Historic Bayfront is perhaps the best place for visitors to walk around.
Is Newport Oregon a nice place to live?
It depends on who you ask! As with the entire Oregon Coast, the weather can be rainy and windy, especially in the winter months.
That said, it rarely snows or freezes, so that is a plus for many folks. In addition, the weather is mild during the summer, rarely exceeding 75 degrees.
Conclusion
Hopefully you found this article helpful when planning a visit. As you can see in this article, there is so much fun stuff to do in Newport Oregon.
If you’re interested, check out our other articles about the Oregon Coast. We love the Oregon Coast and are excited to share our knowledge with others!
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