Newport, Oregon, is a captivating coastal town known for its stunning ocean views, fresh seafood, and diverse attractions. Offering the perfect mix of natural beauty, coastal adventure, and small-town charm with plentiful outdoor activities, fresh seafood and unique points of interest. While enjoying Newports stunning coastlines stop and explore the tide pools at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, take in the breathtaking views from the historic Yaquina Bay and Yaquina Head lighthouses, or take a walk along Nye Beach. If you're into marine life, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is a must-see, featuring playful sea otters, sharks, and an incredible walk-through tunnel that gives you a diver's view of the ocean. Fishing and crabbing are also a huge part of Newport’s culture. You can try your hand at catching Dungeness crab right off the pier or book a fishing charter for an unforgettable experience out on the Pacific. And, of course, no trip to Newport is complete without indulging in the fresh local seafood—restaurants like Moe's chowder house serve up some of the best fish and chips, clam chowder, and crab you'll ever taste. For some family fun Newport has attractions like the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum and the Wax Works, which add a fun and nostalgic vibe to the trip. You can also visit the Hatfield Marine Science Center to learn more about ocean research and even interact with some of the sea creatures. Here are 12 fun things to do while visiting Newport, Oregon.
1. Visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium
One of the top attractions in Newport, the Oregon Coast Aquarium offers an up-close look at local marine life. Walk through the famous Passages of the Deep, a tunnel surrounded by sharks, sting rays, and other sea creatures.
2. Explore Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Home to the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse, this area offers breathtaking views, tide pools teeming with marine life, and opportunities to see seals and seabirds. The lighthouse itself is the tallest on the Oregon coast.
3. Walk Along Nye Beach
Nye Beach is a historic district with a beautiful sandy shore, art galleries, boutique shops, and great restaurants. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, beachcombing, or watching the sunset.
4. Visit the Hatfield Marine Science Center
Run by Oregon State University, this hands-on science center features interactive exhibits about marine life, coastal ecosystems, and even a giant Pacific octopus.
5. Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Local Restaurants
Newport is famous for its seafood, particularly its Dungeness crab and clam chowder. Mo’s Seafood & Chowder and Local Ocean Seafoods are popular choices.
6. Go Crabbing and Clamming
Yaquina Bay is a prime spot for catching fresh Dungeness crab or digging for clams. You can rent gear and try it yourself or take a guided crabbing tour.
7. Explore the Newport Historic Bayfront
This lively area is full of seafood markets, shops, and sea lion docks where you can watch playful sea lions lounging and barking. You’ll also find murals and sculptures reflecting Newport’s fishing heritage.
8. Take a Whale-Watching Tour
Newport is a great place to see gray whales, especially during migration seasons (winter and spring). Charter boats offer whale-watching tours, or you can spot them from the shore at Depoe Bay, just north of Newport.
9. Visit Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area
A short drive from Newport, this natural rock formation is a favorite spot for photographers. During low tide, you can explore tide pools, and during high tide, waves crash dramatically inside the bowl.
10. Hike the Nearby Trails
Enjoy scenic trails like the Mike Miller Park Trail, which winds through lush coastal forest, or the trails at South Beach State Park, which offer a mix of beach and woodland hiking.
11. Check Out the Rogue Ales Brewery
Beer lovers should stop by Rogue Ales & Spirits, which offers locally brewed craft beers, food and a fun atmosphere.
12. Visit the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and Wax Works Museum
Located on the Bayfront, these unique attractions offer a mix of oddities, illusions, and lifelike celebrity wax figures.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone who loves a good beach town, Newport has something for everyone. The combination of breathtaking scenery, fresh seafood, and fun attractions makes it a place worth visiting again and again.
