Less than 30 minutes from Depoe Bay is the coastal town of Newport. A fishing village turned popular beach resort, Newport offers its visitors a glimpse into coastal life and Oregon’s maritime past. If you are staying in Depoe Bay, Newport makes for a fun day trip to explore more of Oregon’s coast. From historic lighthouses and whale watching to the impressive Oregon Coast Aquarium and museums, here is how you can spend one day in Newport, OR.
Otter Crest Loop
As you make your way down to Newport, be sure to add to your trip by taking the Otter Crest Loop. This short scenic route brings travelers to some of the coast’s most interesting geological formations and views. Notable sites include the Ben Jones Bridge, Devil’s Punchbowl, and Flying Dutchman Winery.
Oregon Coast Aquarium
Begin your day in Newport, OR with a visit to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Learn about life underwater with popular attractions like the glass walkways that allow visitors to view the sharks and rays overhead. Other giants of the sea to see include seals, sea otters, and large Pacific octopus.
And if you can’t get enough of the intriguing sea creatures, take the Yaquina Estuary Trail (half-mile-long) to the Hatfield Marine Science Center to see aquariums, tide pools, and octopus feedings.
Newport Historic Bayfront
Stop and have lunch along Newport’s historic Bayfront. Stretching around Yaquina Bay, the Bayfront offers seafood restaurants, small shops, and art galleries along Bay Boulevard.
Go to the Beach
Newport is home to two popular beaches, Nye Beach and Beverly Beach State Park. Beverly Beach offers five miles of sand and plenty of waves for surfers, while Nye Beach is known for its sunset shows.
Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site
Visit the 32-acre park of Yaquina Bay, home to the restored 1871 Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, one of the first navigable lighthouses on the Pacific Northwest Coast. Because of its oceanfront location, visitors will also enjoy whale watching.
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
End the day watching the sunset at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. See Oregon’s tallest lighthouse towering 93 feet above a basalt headland. Discover hiking trails, tide pools, and harbor seals that call Yaquina Head home. This area is also one of the best places for whale watching in Newport, along with the Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay.
Stay at Whale Cove Inn
End your day in Newport, OR, with another night at Whale Cove Inn. Our luxurious boutique hotel has everything you need to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Enjoy oceanfront views, luxurious furnishings, and a private balcony with an outdoor soaking tub from your elegant suite. There truly is no better way to enjoy the Oregon Coast than with a stay at Whale Cove Inn!
