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The Newport Visual Arts Center , located at the historic Nye Beach Turnaround, is a facility built by the City of Newport as a public art exhibition space and for art education programs and maintained by the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts. Opening in 1983, the Newport Visual Arts Center (or “VAC”) is the largest facility on the Oregon Coast built specifically for the exhibition of visual art. The VAC includes three traditional gallery spaces, as well two classrooms/event spaces. The William Runyan Gallery occupies approximately 1,100 square feet on the 1st floor and features rotating exhibits throughout the year. ( Click here for Runyan Gallery layout ) The 300-square foot Upstairs Gallery , located on the 3rd floor, also hosts rotating exhibits — primarily featuring new and experimental artists in the northwest region. ( Click here for Upstairs Gallery layout ) The Coastal Oregon Visual Artists’ Showcase (COVAS) , established in 2011, is located on the 2nd floor. Rotating exhibits in this space are typically 3-dimensional and feature work from coastal artists. ( Click here for COVAS Showcase dimensions ) Hours: Wednesday-Saturday – 12pm to 4pm (unless otherwise noted) All exhibitions are free and open to the public. The Visual Arts Center also offers classes, workshops, and community events.

It's a family business... Jeff is an Oregon Coast native who has been blowing glass professionally for over ten years. He began learning to blow glass in this very space over 12 years ago. As time went on he met and was privileged to work with more and more knowledgeable glass craftsmen. Over the years Jeff has steadily been acquiring the knowledge to build his own studio. Things came together in 2016 shortly after the birth of his daughter Fern and thus began the family business. Jeff and his wife Amanda live in the area with their daughters Fern and Juniper. Glass craftsman Jeff... I live on the Oregon coast and love using glass to express myself. I find a lot of my inspiration and energy from nature and the Pacific Ocean. Living next to a huge body of water and the forces it generates has a profound effect on my life and my works in glass. I enjoy making things that people use every day, taking functional glass items and turning them into works of art that I hope bring a smile to your face, they do mine. I often work solo but my wife Amanda has been assisting me more often. She brings great energy and a fresh perspective to the shop. When I'm not blowing glass I'm off with her and our two girls exploring the world.

Features the following fresh items: Oysters in the Shell Oyster Meat Oyster Cocktails Smoked Oysters Steamer Clams Check out our Prices for more information. Ships oysters worldwide call 1-541-265-5078 or e-mail your order to oregonoyster@actionnet.net. HISTORY The Yaquina Bay oyster industry began with a shipwreck. In January, 1852, the schooner "Juliet" was forced ashore by storms, and her captain and crew were stranded in this area for two months. When they reached the Willamette Valley, the captain reported that the Yaquina River was abundant with oysters, clams and fish of all kinds. Other visitors also reported on the abundance of oysters, and in 1863, two commercial oyster firms appeared on Yaquina Bay. The first was Winant & Company, represented by James Winant and Solomon Dodge, who established a community known as Oysterville. The second was Ludlow & Company, represented by Richard Hillyer. At that time, Yaquina Bay was a part of the Grand Ronde reservation, and disputes quickly arose as to who could do what, and at what cost. The Indian agent, one Ben Simpson, demanded a fee of 15 cents for each bushel harvested be paid to the tribes. Winant & Company complied; Ludlow & Company did not. Instead, they filed a lawsuit, which they lost, and then left the area. In 1865, a Dr. Kellog from Portland entered the scene. He established a settlement called Pioneer about the site of today's Elk City, and built a warehouse. While he was away, soldiers tore it down. He appealed to the Superintendent of Indian Affairs in Salem, but received hostility instead of help. Being more determined than Ludlow & Company, Kellogg carried his fight to Washington, which found that the agency had exceeded its authority, and ordered an end to the harassment of the doctor. The battle for the bay caught the attention of other potential settlers, and they began to push for the opening of the area. In 1866, the Department of the Interior removed from the Grand Ronde reservation the area from the Alsea River to Cape Foulweather and settlement began. The oyster business flourished for a few years, until the stock of native oysters was nearly depleted. Attempts to grow eastern oysters in Yaquina Bay failed, and by 1900 only a handful of men were involved in oystering in the bay, and that on a very small scale. In 1907, the Wachsmuth family opened what is today Dan and Louie's Oyster Bar in Portland. After that they founded today's Oregon Oyster Farms to assure a supply of high quality oysters. In 1918, the Pacific oyster from Japan was introduced into the bay. While the Pacifics grew well here, they could not reproduce in the colder water, so each year growers would import seed from Japan. World War II brought an end to the importation of seed, and even though it was resumed after the war, it became increasingly expensive. Oyster growers began to look for a better way. In 1968, Professor Willy Breese and Dr. Anja Robinson, along with Newport's Tom Becker and Mo Niemi, built three insulated rooms at the Marine Science Center, began research into the feasibility of hatching Pacific oysters locally. From those three rooms and Breese and Robinson's research, combined with the research of others, gave us the oyster industry in Yaquina Bay as we know it today. The west coast has now surpassed the east and gulf coasts as the top producer of oysters.

Agate hunting in Newport is a popular and exciting activity that attracts both locals and visitors to the area. Newport is known for its beautiful coastline, and agate hunting offers a unique opportunity to explore the beaches while searching for these precious gemstones. Agates are semi-precious stones with beautiful patterns and colors, often resembling small, colorful marbles. They are formed from volcanic rocks and are typically found in the gravel and sand on the beach. Newport's beaches, particularly Beverly Beach and Agate Beach, are known to be rich in agates, making it a prime location for agate-hunting enthusiasts. To go agate hunting in Newport, all you need is a keen eye and a little patience. The best time to search for agates is during low tide when more of the beach is exposed, revealing a greater area to explore. Walk along the waterline and keep an eye out for small, roundish stones with translucent or banded patterns. Agates come in various colors, including shades of brown, red, orange, and even blue or green. It's essential to respect the beach and the environment while agate hunting. Make sure to follow any rules and guidelines set by the local authorities to protect the natural habitats and wildlife. Additionally, avoid disturbing marine life or removing rocks from tide pools. While agate hunting in Newport is a delightful experience, it's crucial to be aware of sneaker waves. Sneaker waves are sudden, powerful waves that can unexpectedly surge far up the beach, catching unwary beachgoers off guard. These waves can be hazardous and pose a threat to safety. To stay safe while exploring the coast, it's essential to keep a lookout for signs warning of sneaker waves and always maintain a safe distance from the waterline. Never turn your back to the ocean, and if you see a sneaker wave approaching, move to higher ground immediately. Agate hunting and sneaker waves are two sides of the same coin on Newport's beaches. By being mindful of your surroundings and practicing safety measures, you can have a fantastic time agate hunting while enjoying the natural beauty of Newport's coastline. Agate hunting in Newport can be a fun and rewarding experience for people of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned agate hunter or a first-timer, the thrill of finding these beautiful gemstones amidst the sand and rocks of Newport's picturesque beaches is an adventure worth embarking on. So, grab a bucket, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to uncover the treasures of the Oregon coast!

The Pacific Maritime Heritage Center (PMHC), in Newport's Bayfront, is one of two historic properties operated by the nonprofit Lincoln County Historical Society. The 30,000 SF flagship site, features panoramic views of Yaquina Bay, two changing exhibit galleries, three permanent galleries, the 121-seat Doerfler Family Theater, and a Museum Store. The Doerfler Family Theater includes an 18 ft screen and a self-serve menu of 18 short historic films created by the Lincoln County Historical Society for visitors to enjoy. The Center serves as a museum and interpretive center, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich maritime history and heritage of the Pacific Northwest, with a particular focus on the Oregon coast. Additionally, the PMHC offers classes, workshops, panel discussions, lectures, and other special events in conjunction with its rotating exhibit program. On August 12 visitors can observe Plein air painters in action on the center’s balcony overlooking Newport’s Commercial Fishing Fleet and the Yaquina Bay Bridge. “Our Beautiful & Wild Oregon Fisheries” exhibition is showing, which defines and explains the significance of Newport’s Commercial Fishing Industry. “Composition Series: Ernest Bloch in Agate Beach” runs from July 20 – November 12 and celebrates the creative talents of one of Newport’s most famous residents. Don’t miss “The Curious World of Seaweed,” a traveling exhibition from San Francisco author/artist, Josie Iselin in partnership with Exhibit Envoy. The exhibit is based on the book of the same name by Iselin (Heyday Books). The Curious World of Seaweed explores the history, art & science of seaweed and will be at the Center thru October 1st. For those interested in the rich maritime history of the Oregon coast and the cultural significance of Newport as a coastal town, a visit to the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center is a must. It is a place where history comes alive, inviting visitors to explore, learn, and appreciate the profound connection between the local community and the sea that has shaped its identity. The PMHC is located at 333 SE Bay Blvd. Hours of operation are Tuesday – Sunday 11 am – 4 PM. Onsite parking is available. Admission rates apply. Admission is free to LCHS Members, Active-Duty military, and children 12 & under. Family and group rates available. Serving the public for 75 years, the Lincoln County Historical Society preserves and interprets the collective memory of Lincoln County and includes the Log Cabin Research Library Archive and 1895 Burrows House located at 545 SW 9th St., Newport. A sampling of society’s vast historic image collection can be seen at: oregondigital.org. For more information visit: oregoncoasthistory.org or call 541-265-7509. Follow us on Instagram @lincolnco.historicalsociety or Twitter @maritime_center. — Please visit oregoncoasthistory.org for more information about the Pacific Maritime Heritage Museum and other offerings from the Historical Society. The Newport Chamber of Commerce is always ready to welcome you to the beach! Visit newportchamber.org for a detailed calendar of events and a list of local businesses that will take care of every aspect of your stay.

Plan a weekend in Newport on October 13th-15th to watch the 2023 Annular Solar Eclipse! The annular eclipse this year will be much different than the total solar eclipse we saw in 2017 because the entirety of the sun will not be fully hidden by the moon in totality as it was then. The eclipse is set to make landfall in Newport on October 14th at 8 AM and will reach “annularity” just after 9 AM. Annularity means “ring-shaped halo of the sun”, and it occurs when the moon is at its farthest point from the Earth and passes between our planet and the sun, and the moon’s entire disk is seen silhouetted against the sun. We can’t predict what the weather will be like during the eclipse, but if it cooperates, we’ll be able to see the event before anyone else in North America! Solar eclipses are amazing and rare events that remind us how incredible our universe is. It's important to remember that looking directly at the Sun is not safe for our eyes, especially during an eclipse. To watch a solar eclipse, get yourself special glasses or use other safe ways to observe it. There are many resources available online to help us learn about eclipses and teach us how to enjoy them safely. Plan to enjoy this unique experience in Newport by reserving your lodging options soon. Newport has many campgrounds and RV parks, hotels, inns, and motels, but we recommend planning for that weekend now, as availability may become limited as the date approaches. You can also plan a variety of other beach activities around October 14th, as the weather in early October can be amazing, you’ll be able to make a complete weekend getaway around the eclipse! For more information, check out NASA’s Solar System Exploration Site, and for a list of local lodging options, a detailed calendar of events, and a list of other businesses, visit the Newport Chamber of Commerce.

Biking is not only a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, but it also offers a unique perspective on exploring a city's hidden gems. Newport, with its breathtaking coastal beauty and bike-friendly infrastructure, is the perfect destination for cyclists of all levels. Whether you're a casual rider or a seasoned cyclist, Newport has something to offer. Before you set off on your biking adventure, remember to prioritize safety by wearing a helmet, following traffic rules, and being aware of your surroundings. When it comes to biking in Newport, you'll be delighted by the variety of routes and scenic trails available. The city features a network of bike lanes, dedicated paths, and picturesque coastal roads that showcase the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you choose to pedal along the Yaquina Bay waterfront, explore the coastal neighborhoods, or venture into more rugged trails, Newport offers a diverse range of biking opportunities to suit all preferences. Below are a few maps showing some suggested bike routes in Newport.

Volunteer to Clean Up after Independence Day SOLVE is calling on all volunteers to help clean up our beaches the day after Independence Day. Each year, on the 4th of July, thousands of Oregonians head to the beach, riverbanks, and parks to celebrate. While these festivities bring joy and create lasting memories, they often leave behind a trail of trash, harmful firework debris, and litter. That's where SOLVE comes in, working hard to promote beach cleanup events and make a positive impact on our environment. But we need your help! View the links below for more information about cleanup events. Help us restore our beaches' natural beauty with a beach cleanup event on the 5th of July. Agate Beach Cleanup - Surfrider Foundation - Newport Chapter Beverly Beach Cleanup - Surfrider Foundation - Newport Chapter Roads End Beach and Neighborhood Clean-up - Lincoln City Lincoln City - 15th Street Beach Access Cleanup - Lincoln City Nye Beach Cleanup - Surfrider Foundation - Newport Chapter Oregon Coast Aquarium Beach Cleanup - Newport Patterson Park and Beach Cleanup - Waldport Rockaway Beach Ocean's Edge Wayside Cleanup - Rockaway Seaside Treasure the Beach Cleanup - Seaside We believe that a clean beach is a happy beach, and we can achieve this goal with the collective efforts of passionate volunteers. As we gear up for the summer season, with the sun shining brighter and the temperatures rising, it's the perfect time to reflect on the significance of preserving our natural treasures. The beaches and waterways not only provide us with enjoyment but also serve as habitats for diverse marine life and contribute to the overall well-being of our coastal ecosystems. SOLVE has a calendar full of exciting events lined up, offering opportunities to make a difference while having fun. But we can't do it alone. We encourage volunteers to join us this summer for a season of volunteering and enjoyment. By participating in beach cleanup events and other initiatives, you'll contribute to the preservation of these precious resources and create a positive impact on the environment. Help us spread the word about our upcoming events by sharing links, photos, and information on your newsletters, websites, and social media platforms. The more volunteers we have, the bigger impact we can make. Together, we can ensure that our beaches remain pristine, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. Join SOLVE Oregon in protecting our beaches and waterways. Let's make this summer a season of caring, volunteering, and fun! For more details about our events and to get involved, visit our website at www.solveoregon.org. Together, let's make a difference and create a cleaner, healthier environment for generations to come. SOLVE was founded in 1969 with a focus on cleaning Oregon’s beautiful beaches. Nearly 55 years later we are continuing this tradition and we need your help. We are looking to create new beach cleanup events and looking for leaders to host them for our annual Beach and River Cleanup series. Every year, SOLVE hosts nearly 100 Beach & Riverside Cleanups in September. This year the events will be running from September 9th through September 17th, with the main events occurring Saturday, September 16th. If you are interested in leading in event or have any questions, please reach out to me at peter@solveoregon.org or visit our website at Beach & Riverside Cleanup (solveoregon.org).

The only thing better than cooking fish that you caught yourself is selecting seafood that was pulled out of the ocean hours before you’re ready to cook it! Newport offers the freshest fish available anywhere, and we’ve put together a guide to where you can source all of the delicacies that we harvest. These suggestions will have you buying fish straight from the source like a seasoned local! Fish Markets Newport’s fish markets offer a variety of locally sourced salmon, lingcod, rockfish, halibut, tuna, Dungeness crab, shrimp, clams, and oysters. The variety of seafood available in the markets will depend on what kind of seafood is in season, how much was caught that day, and how much is left in stock when you get there. Fishmongers at the markets will be able to answer all of your questions about what to buy, they might also have some suggestions on how to prepare specific fish and may even have recipes for you to try. Fish Peddler’s Market, Local Ocean Seafoods, South Beach Fish Market, and Ocean Bleu Seafoods are all excellent local fish markets and are ready to supply you with fresh seafood. Shop at the Docks In addition to fish markets, Newport also offers the unique opportunity to buy fish directly from fishers right off the docks in the Historic Bayfront and from specific boats in the South Beach Marina. Chelsea Rose and Del’s Fresh Seafood are regular vendors and can often be found down in the Historic Bayfront on the docks. When you go down to the docks, look for signs that advertise fish for sale, and make sure that you bring some cash with you, as many fishers only accept cash payment. The minimum amount that you can buy is one fish, so plan to freeze or share portions that you won’t be eating right away. For a small fee, most fishers will clean the fish for you or refer you to someone nearby who will. For more information about buying fish off the docks, visit the Shop at the Dock program from Oregon Sea Grant and Oregon State University. We want to ensure that you are able to find the freshest fish available anywhere! The Newport Chamber of Commerce is always ready to welcome you to the beach! Visit newportchamber.org for a detailed calendar of events and a list of local businesses that will take care of every aspect of your stay.

Everybody knows that Newport is the best place to be in the summer, and we’ve put together a list of the ten best things to do while you’re here! Of course, there are many more great places to visit and things to do than we’ve listed, but this will get you started. Visit the Lighthouses Newport is home to two historic lighthouses; one is perched on top of Yaquina Head and the other is at the edge of the Yaquina Bay. At 93 feet, the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse is Oregon’s tallest and is surrounded by the amazing wildlife preserve, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is in the Yaquina Bay Recreation Site next to the northern entrance to Yaquina Bay and is the only wooden Oregon lighthouse in existence, and the only remaining lighthouse with living quarters attached. Both lighthouses offer a unique experience, are easily accessible, and welcome visitors throughout the year. Explore the Historic Bayfront Spend the day exploring Newport’s Historic Bayfront, where beautiful murals cover the one-mile strip of canneries, fish markets, art galleries, gift shops, and various eateries coexist amid the cries of seagulls and the savory scent of fresh cooked Dungeness crab. Shop and dine in an atmosphere largely forgotten by time, visit the resident sea lions on the docks and enjoy all of the family-friendly attractions offered at Mariner Square. You may also want to buy fresh seafood right off the docks or try your luck crabbing in the bay. Stroll Nye Beach Nye Beach roughly stretches from the center of Newport to the North Jetty and extends up from the sand into a charming shopping district with a variety of shops, restaurants and visual arts center that complete the mixed-use neighborhood. The area is roughly twelve blocks long and two blocks wide and is very walkable from the seashore that extends beyond a turnaround and parking lot. The district continues south onto a cliffside that hosts the local performing arts center and great lodging options with stunning ocean views. Hike and Bike South Beach State Park South Jetty boarders the entrance to Yaquina Bay, with a rock wall against the channel on its north side and miles of grass-covered dunes and open beach that connect with South Beach State Park to the south. You can hike, walk, bike and even ride a horse through the many miles of trails that twist and turn through the dunes or on the beach. South Beach State Park has an established campground where you can stay, or you can use the park for free during the day. Popular activities at the park include fishing, clamming, scuba diving, and windsurfing. Visit the Aquarium For 30 years the Oregon Coast Aquarium has been the premier regional destination for exploring the mysteries of the ocean and the unique wildlife that call it home. You’ll love the dozens of displays of sea life and the many themed exhibits. The Animal Encounters & Experience Tours are also fun for the whole family; get up close and personal with the Sea Jelly Touch and the Octopus Encounters and learn the ins and outs of caring for the marine animals at the aquarium with a Behind the Scenes Tour. Eat and Drink at local Breweries Rogue Bayfront Public House and Rogue Brewers on the Bay invite you to become a member of Rouge Nation, or at least stop in for a visit! Rogue has had a solid presence in Newport for over 30 years, from humble beginnings in the Historic Bayfront to their World Headquarters in South Beach, Rogue is one of Oregon’s first and most beloved craft breweries. Bier One features a newer and much larger location right at the edge of the Deco District that provides a comfortable setting for socializing, boasts twenty rotating taps of their delicious craft beer and Kombucha, and offers select cocktails, tasty snacks, and great sandwiches. Wolf Tree Brewery is a family-run nanobrewery with a restaurant and taproom located near the campus of the Oregon Coast Community College in South Beach, and they use local ingredients as often as possible to create award-winning beverages that are as both original and bold. Newport Brewing may be the new kid on the block, but they have established themselves right away since opening in 2019. Their flagship brew is the Dungeness IPA, but other popular selections include the Hazy Crazy DIPA, Surfs Up Lager, The Guardian Hazy Pale Ale, and Tangerine Dream, and they offer a full liquor bar, wine, and great food. Surf the Pacific Ocean Surfers have long known that the Central Oregon Coast offers some of the best waves available anywhere. We have miles of uncrowded beaches, excellent breaks and clean waters that are perfect for surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced surfer, new to the sport, or interested in learning how to surf, Newport’s beaches are ready to exceed your expectations. Ossies Surf Shop, Pura Vida Surf Shop, South Beach Surf Shop, and Newport Surf Shop are great places to rent or buy boards and wetsuits and take lessons that are specific to your skill level. Kayak Yaquina River and Bay Have you noticed all of the kayaks in Newport’s waterways and just off the coast, and thought, that looks like fun? You’re not alone! Both locals and visitors alike can often be found paddling around the many aquatic bodies of water that our area has to offer. Whether you’re an experienced kayaker, new to the sport, or interested in getting started, we have some perfect locations and suggestions that cater to every skill level. Kayaking information, lessons, rentals and tours are readily available through Ossie’s Surf Shop and the Oregon Boating Foundation. Take a Fishing Charter Newport is the premier spot on the Oregon Coast for fresh seafood, and it’s also home to many sport fishing charter boats with experienced crew ready to embark on daily angling excursions. Tuna, salmon, halibut, cod, and a variety of rockfish are available, and local charter captains will skillfully guide you to where these fish can be found, and they will also have all of the equipment and licensing that you will need for your fishing trip. Contact Newport Oregon Fishing Charters, Yaquina Bay Charters, Lance Fisher Fishing, Prospectors Fishing Adventures, or Good Time Charlie Sportfishing for daily fishing excursions. Go Birding Are you an avid birder or interested in birding? Birding is a fascinating hobby full of opportunities to view unique coastal birds in their natural habitats. Birding in Newport is fun and exciting, from the beaches to the dunes to the coastal forests, you’ll find scores of birds to observe and document. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and Yaquina Bay are both designated as Important Bird Areas (IBA) nationally and by the State of Oregon. Yaquina Bay Road, Yaquina Bay Estuary Trail, Beverly Beach State Park, South Jetty and South Beach State Park are all excellent places to watch birds throughout the year. The Newport Chamber of Commerce is always ready to welcome you to the beach! Visit newportchamber.org for a detailed calendar of events and a list of local businesses that will take care of every aspect of your stay.

Blue Pig Bakery in Newport, Oregon. Open Thursday-Sunday, ​716 NW Beach Drive Nye Beach. ​Bakery, Pastries, Scones, Savories & Coffee... Oh My!

Cafe set in a turn-of-the-century cottage overlooking Yaquina Bay & serving breakfast & lunch fare.