From fishing to watching storms along the rugged Coast, there’s no shortage of things to do in the winter! Plan an intimate escape where you can cozy up with your sweetheart in your suite or brave the elements for amazing sights when you add some of these top 10 things to do this winter along the Oregon Coast to your itinerary!
1. Whale watching
In the winter, you’ll catch sight of migrating whales as they make their way toward Mexico. Take a trip out on the water for a closer look at these majestic mammals, stop by the Whale Watch Center right here in Depoe Bay to learn more about them, or simply relax on your private balcony at Whale Cove Inn and watch them pass by. View our whale watching tips to make the most of your whale watching time!
2. Find a float
Head down to the beach in Lincoln City and see if you’re lucky enough to find a handcrafted glass float! Each winter, float fairies will drop off these special floats and if you find it, it’s yours as the program is called “Finders Keepers!”
3. Storm watching
Similar with whale watching, you can do this from the comfort of your balcony, with the warmth of your suite, or by heading out to Oregon State Parks or other popular landmarks, like Boiler Bay or Devils Punch Bowl, to catch sight of these fantastic storms rolling off the Coastal sea.
4. Indulge at Restaurant Beck
Treat yourself to a lavish and mouthwatering meal at Restaurant Beck, right here on site at Whale Cove Inn! Savor each drop of wine, each bit of fresh and local produce and meat, and of course save room for a divine chocolate creation for dessert!
5. Get pampered
Enjoy the stunning ocean views as you wait for your massage therapist to work on your muscles from the privacy of your suite with an in-room massage!
6. Tour the breweries and wineries
Oregon is no stranger to exceptional bottles of wine and creative craft brews and you can stay warm, inside and out, with tastings at some of our popular wineries and breweries. You can also stay in town and visit Depoe Bay Winery for wine tasting and to pick up a commemorative bottle for your trip!
7. Go fish
Schedule a fishing charter if you’re ready to brave the winter sea and take home a good catch! Dockside Charters offers fishing trips and has information of fish you can catch year-round as well as offers whale watching tours.
8. Visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium
Take a little drive to the Oregon Coast Aquarium where you can get kissed by a seal or sea lion, see the sea otter splash about, or be dazzled by the colorful varieties of fish, octopi, lizards, and other sea creatures.
9. See the light at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Just north of Newport is the historical 1872 Yaquina Head Lighthouse. It’s Oregon’s tallest lighthouse at 93 ft. and has been active since August 1873. It’s worth a stop if you’re planning on driving the Coast during your getaway.
10. Warm up with chowder
Stop by Gracie’s Sea Hag, a local’s favorite, for their famous clam chowder for lunch! Though we will admit you really can’t go wrong with any of their fresh and delicious seafood menu items!
Start planning your romantic getaway this winter by finding the perfect suite to retreat to – or simply lock yourselves in – at Whale Cove Inn!