Ocean-view dining overlooking Agate Beach featuring locally sourced seafood, coastal cuisine, and seasonal ingredients. Open for breakfast and dinner.

Family Activities on the Oregon Coast From whale sightings offshore to marine science exhibits and miles of sandy shoreline, Newport offers families a variety of ways to experience the Oregon Coast together. Whether exploring aquariums, riding bikes along the bay, or watching waves roll in from the beach, the coastal town provides memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. Whale Watching Oregon Coast Aquarium Discover Marine Science at Hatfield (think coastal OMSI) Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Wax Museum Newport’s Beaches Bike Friendly Trails for Kids Newport Discovery Zoo Whale Watching Season Begins March 21 marks the start of an active whale watching period along the Oregon Coast as gray whales migrate north. Visitors in Newport often spot whales from coastal viewpoints or from charter boats leaving the historic bayfront. During this time of year, it is common to see whale spouts just offshore, making it one of the best opportunities for families to witness these massive marine mammals along the coastline. One of the most reliable places to spot migrating gray whales is Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area , just north of Newport. The headland sits high above the Pacific and offers sweeping views of the coastline, making it a popular location for whale watching during the spring migration. Visitors can walk the paved paths around the lighthouse and scan the ocean for whale spouts as the animals travel north along the coast. Rangers and volunteers are often on site during migration periods to help visitors spot whales and answer questions. The park entrance fee is around $7 per vehicle , and the views from the cliffs provide one of the best land based whale watching locations on the Oregon Coast. Learn more: https://www.blm.gov/visit/yaquina-head-outstanding-natural-area Families who want to get out on the water can book a whale watching trip with Tradewinds Charters in nearby Depoe Bay , about 20 minutes north of Newport. Tradewinds offers guided whale watching trips led by experienced captains who help visitors spot whales, seabirds, and other marine wildlife. Typical pricing is approximately: $45 to $55 for adults $35 to $45 for children Learn more: https://tradewindscharters.com Oregon Coast Aquarium One of Newport’s most popular family attractions is the Oregon Coast Aquarium , where visitors can walk through the famous Passages of the Deep underwater tunnel as sharks, rays, and schools of fish swim overhead. The aquarium also features sea otters, seabirds, and interactive tide pool exhibits that allow kids to explore Oregon’s coastal ecosystems up close. Admission ranges from $20-$30. Children two and under are admitted free. Learn more: https://aquarium.org Marine Science at Hatfield Just across the bridge from the aquarium is the Hatfield Marine Science Center Visitor Center , operated by Oregon State University. The visitor center offers hands-on exhibits about marine research, ocean conservation, and coastal ecosystems. Kids enjoy viewing live marine animals in tanks while learning how scientists study the ocean. Admission is $5, free for visitors 4 and under.  Learn more: https://hmsc.oregonstate.edu/visitor-center Newport’s Maritime History (with interactive exhibits) The Pacific Maritime Heritage Center , located along Newport’s historic bayfront, tells the story of the region’s fishing industry and maritime traditions. Exhibits include historic photographs, fishing equipment, and stories from the generations of fishermen who helped shape Newport’s coastal community. There are ongoing exhibits and areas where kids can experience the process of catching fish and then selling them in a market.  Admission is approximately $5 for youth, $10 for adults and free for children under 12. Learn more: https://oregoncoasthistory.org/maritime-center/ Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Wax Museum For something a little different, families can visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not  on Newport’s bayfront. The attraction features unusual artifacts, interactive exhibits, and optical illusions that entertain visitors of all ages. Admission is typically between $20-$30.  Learn more: https://www.ripleys.com/newport Newport’s Beaches No trip to Newport is complete without time on the sand. Nye Beach  is a favorite for families with its wide shoreline, tide pools, and nearby cafés and shops. South Beach   offers another scenic stretch of sand where families can fly kites, watch surfers, or explore the dunes. Beverly Beach State Park  is a favorite for families thanks to its long sandy shoreline and easy beach access beneath the Highway 101 bridge. The park is a great spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and exploring tide pools. Spencer Creek runs through the park and often attracts wildlife, making it a fun place for kids to explore nature. Agate Beach  is a wide stretch of shoreline known for ocean views, surfing, and occasional agate stones that wash up after storms. Families often visit to walk the beach, fly kites, or watch the waves roll in along the Oregon Coast. Bike Friendly Trails for Kids Families looking for outdoor activity can enjoy bike friendly paths around Mike Miller Park  and the South Beach area near Yaquina Bay. These relatively flat trails offer scenic views and provide a safe place for kids to ride while exploring Newport’s waterfront and marina areas. Learn more: https://newportoregon.gov/dept/parks/parks/mmiller.asp Newport Discovery Zoo Located inside Pirates Plunder in the South Beach District of Newport , the Newport Discovery Zoo  offers families an interactive experience with a variety of animals including reptiles, birds, and other unique species. The small educational zoo focuses on hands on learning, allowing visitors to see animals up close while learning about habitats, conservation, and wildlife from knowledgeable staff. Its location in South Beach makes it an easy stop for families visiting nearby attractions such as the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center. Admission is typically around $10-15 per person , with add on experiences. Hours and pricing may vary. Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/Newportzoo/ Where can families stay at the coast? There are many places to stay in Newport for 4+ travelers (families or small groups). The below mentioned lodging partners typically have suites, multiple beds, or condo-style rooms. If you are staying at a hotel and want adjoining rooms, our recommendation is to call the hotel to book directly. A great example is that Agate Beach Inn  can put groups in multiple adjoining rooms. Inn at Nye Beach – family suites, ocean views, pool, pet friendly and breakfast included. https://www.innatnyebeach.com Hallmark Resort Newport – larger 2 queen suites, family suites, pool, beach access, pet friendly rooms. https://www.hallmarkresortnewport.com/ Best Western Plus Agate Beach Inn – oceanfront rooms, pool, pet friendly, adjoining rooms. https://www.agatebeachinn.com La Quinta Inn & Suites Newport – large rooms, indoor pool, very pet friendly, breakfast. https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/laquinta/newport-oregon/la-quinta-newport/overview Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites – oceanfront rooms, some with sofa beds, family suites, breakfast included, some pet friendly. https://www.elizabethoceanfrontsuites.com/ Holiday Inn Express Newport – family suites, breakfast included. https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/newport/onpor/hoteldetail The Allred – boutique style queen suites, pool, vacation homes. https://www.allredhotel.com/ Embarcadero Resort Hotel & Marina – condo style rooms, marina views, pool, full kitchens. https://www.embarcaderoresort.com/ Sweet Home Vacations – full homes for larger families. https://www.sweethomesrentals.com/ Inn at Nye Beach - a family friendly destination!

Located in the heart of Newport's historic Nye Beach district, Ultralife Cafe offers an exceptional experience. This premier destination for craft and community specializes in handmade donuts, artisan bagels, and a vibrant all-day brunch menu that includes signature acai bowls, rice bowls, and sandwiches. The coffee program features specialty espresso and fresh, locally roasted beans. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Ultralife Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a premium, craft-focused experience with a seaside view or grab a fresh pastry to go. Visit Website

As summer fades and the crisp, cool air of fall sets in, the Oregon Coast offers an exciting opportunity for nature lovers: foraging. September marks the beginning of one of the best times to explore the coast’s rich natural bounty. From wild mushrooms to coastal plants and late-season berries, the Oregon Coast—and Newport, in particular—offers foraging opportunities that appeal to both seasoned foragers and curious beginners alike. Safety First Always be cautious when consuming foraged foods. If you are unsure about the safety of a plant or mushroom, do not eat it.  Avoid foraging in areas that have been sprayed with pesticides, near dog parks, or along busy roadways. Also, avoid foraging plants that appear unhealthy. Some wild plants and mushrooms can be toxic or cause allergic reactions. If in doubt, consult a local expert or use a foraging guide. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to wild edibles. The Bounty of the Coast Foraging on the Oregon Coast is a rewarding experience because of its diverse coastal ecosystem. With temperate rainforests, sandy beaches, and tidal zones, the area is home to a variety of edible treasures. Fall is the perfect time to explore this abundance as wild mushrooms, berries, and coastal plants thrive in the cooler, damper weather. Wild Mushrooms Fall is prime mushroom season, and September is when the magic starts. In the Newport area, you can find a variety of wild mushrooms, including the highly sought-after chanterelles. These golden mushrooms grow in moist, wooded areas and are a favorite among foragers for their distinctive flavor and versatility in cooking. Other species such as lobster mushrooms, hedgehog mushrooms, and porcini may also be found in forested areas near Newport. Where to Forage In and around the coastal forests near Newport, such as the Siuslaw National Forest and nearby state parks, you can find a wealth of mushrooms. Make sure to forage responsibly, avoid private lands, and be sure you can positively identify any mushrooms before consuming them. A great local resource for identifying mushrooms is the Oregon Mycological Society  ( https://www.wildmushrooms.org  ). Coastal Edible Plants The Oregon Coast is also home to several edible coastal plants. Sea beans (also known as glasswort), wild fennel, and even some types of edible seaweed can be foraged along the shoreline. Sea beans thrive in salt marshes and tidal areas, while wild fennel can often be found growing along coastal paths. These plants are perfect for adding a coastal flavor to your meals and are surprisingly abundant. Where to Forage Head to the shoreline near Yaquina Bay or South Beach to look for edible seaweed and sea beans. Always be mindful of protected areas and ensure that foraging is permitted where you explore. The Oregon State Parks  website ( https://stateparks.oregon.gov  ) is a helpful resource for rules on foraging within state parks. Berries If you missed the peak summer berry season, September still offers late-season options, including blackberries and huckleberries. While many berry patches may be past their prime by this time, foragers can still find plenty of ripe berries lingering on bushes, especially in shaded areas or coastal forests where the cooler temperatures extend their growing season. Where to Forage The forests and trails around Newport are often filled with blackberry and huckleberry bushes. Try the trails at Beaver Creek State Natural Area  or along the forested areas around Yaquina Head. Foraging Tips and Cautions Identification is Key:  When foraging, it’s essential to correctly identify what you're collecting, especially with mushrooms and unfamiliar plants. Bring a field guide or use an app like iNaturalist ( https://www.inaturalist.org/  ) to help identify species. Forage Sustainably:  Only take what you need and be sure to leave some behind to maintain the natural ecosystem. Permits and Guidelines:  Foraging in state parks or on public lands often requires a permit. Check with local ranger stations or visit the Oregon Department of Forestry  website ( https://www.oregon.gov/odf/  ) for information on obtaining permits. Safety First:  Always be cautious when consuming foraged foods. If you are unsure about the safety of a plant or mushroom, do not eat it.  Avoid foraging in areas that have been sprayed with pesticides, near dog parks, or along busy roadways. Also avoid foraging plants that appear unhealthy. Some wild plants and mushrooms can be toxic or cause allergic reactions. If in doubt, consult a local expert or use a reliable foraging guide. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to wild edibles. More Safety Considerations Foraging can be a fun and educational activity, but always ensure safety comes first. Wear proper clothing, especially if trekking into forested or overgrown areas, and be aware of the local wildlife. If you are new to foraging, it may be helpful to join a foraging group or take a guided foraging tour to learn from experts. In Newport, the Oregon Coast Community College  offers courses and workshops related to sustainable living and foraging, which can be a great way to learn more about the local ecosystem. Newport, Oregon, is a haven for coastal activities and scenic beauty as well as a treasure trove for foragers. September offers a chance to immerse yourself in the natural offerings of the area, from mushrooms and berries to coastal plants. Whether you're a beginner looking to try your hand at foraging or a seasoned pro, Newport's diverse ecosystem provides the perfect backdrop for this rewarding activity. Be sure to check local regulations, forage responsibly, and enjoy the fresh flavors of the Oregon Coast this fall! For more information and resources, visit: Oregon Mycological Society Oregon State Parks Oregon Department of Forestry Fin and Forage : in-depth guides on foraging for wild foods along the Oregon coast and in forests, with a focus on seaweed, mushrooms, and shellfish. finandforage.com Eat the Planet : lists various foraging tours, walks, and classes available throughout Oregon. Wild Food Adventures : provides classes and multi-day intensives centered around foraging for edible wild plants, sea vegetables, and shellfish in Northwestern Oregon. That Oregon Life : seasonal tips and guidance on foraging wild mushrooms, berries, and other plants in Oregon.

With a stay at La Quinta® by Wyndham Newport, you can experience all the beauty this coastal town has to offer. We provide comfortable accommodations right off US-101, making it easy to reach Nye Beach and the Newport Historic Bayfront. You'll also be just a few minutes from the renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium. At our hotel, enjoy excellent amenities including an indoor pool and hot tub, free WiFi and breakfast, and a fitness center. If you need to get work done, we also offer a convenient business center. (La Quinta website)

Old-school seafood shack supplying ocean-sourced fare, from live & steamed crabs to fish & chips.

Classic steak & seafood fare is offered in a chill sports-bar setting with TVs, trivia & happy hour. Visit Website

Locally sourced fish market & seafood cafe with a dog-friendly patio & an unassuming interior. Visit Website

Easygoing Irish pub offering a pot pie–centric tavern menu & pints of Guinness, plus live music. Visit Nana's Facebook page for current events and info.

Thai specialties, bubble tea & a take-out option offered in an understated, bayside locale. Visit Website

Local chain serving seafood, burgers & pasta, plus cocktails, in a casual setting. Visit Website

Low-key seafood cafe serving hearty breakfast & lunch fare like chowders, oysters & fried fish.