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A delightful shop full of goods and gifts for everyone in your life. They also have a sparkle wall that is great for selfies.

Discover what causes Oregon’s dramatic winter King Tides, how they shape our coastline, and how to view them safely. Photo: C.L. Downing, Rockaway Beach By Rhiannon Bezore, Coastal Shores Specialist, Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development Published: December 2025 What Are King Tides? Each winter, the moon, sun, and earth are in alignment, the earth’s orbit is closest to the sun, and the moon is closest to the earth, creating an extra strong gravitational pull on our oceans, making the highest and lowest tides of the year. These extreme tides are known scientifically as Perigean Spring Tides, but they are more commonly referred to as King Tides. This season (2025 to 2026), we have three King Tide events. The first took place November 5 to 7, the second December 4 to 6, and the final event will occur January 1 to 4. Where the Term “King Tides”Comes From The term “King Tides” was coined in Australia nearly 20 years ago to describe the highest tides they observed each year, and the King Tides Project began to document how the tides were impacting coastal communities. From there, the project spread across the world. Photo: Pelirrojo Productions, Depoe Bay The Oregon King Tides Project The Oregon King Tides Project began 15 years ago as a partnership between the Oregon Coastal Management Program (housed within the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development) and Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition, along with partners from Oregon Coastal Visitors Association, Oregon Sea Grant, and Oregon Surfrider. The Oregon King Tides Project is a community science initiative that asks the public to submit their photos of the King Tides online to www.oregonkingtides.net . The project hosts a photo contest each year and shares all photos submitted to a public Flickr account ( Oregon King Tides’s albums | Flickr ) as well as with coastal planning departments, federal and state agencies, and researchers. The project is focused on documenting howKing Tides impact our coastal communities, be it flooding, erosion, or other compounding impacts from storms that add to the effects of the high tides. Seeing areas that are already being impacted by these high tide events gives us a glimpse into what future sea level rise may look like in our communities. What King Tides Tell Us About the Future Essentially, the water levels that we see during king tides now may be the normal high tide line in the future with sea level rise, with King Tides then raising water levels that much more each winter. Since King Tides occur during winter months, they often coincide with storm events too. This can lead to large waves and stormy conditions during peak high tide hours, increasing hazards like flooding, erosion, and sneaker waves along the coast. Staying Safe While Viewing King Tides It is very important that anyone visiting the coast be very careful when viewing King Tides. The ocean is incredibly powerful, sneaker waves can happen at any time, and King Tides often coincide with storms, producing large waves during already high water levels. People taking photos and videos should be a safe distance from the water and never turn their back on the water. Remember to stay off of logs and rocks, away from cliff edges, and on dry sand. There are plenty of safe places to view the King Tides without putting yourself in harm’s way. Contact Information For more information about the project, please contact: Rhiannon Bezore, Coastal Shores Specialist with the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development, (971) 375-7336, rhiannon.bezore@dlcd.oregon.gov Sam Derrenbacher, Community Science & Engagement Manager with Oregon Shores, (603) 340-4648, sam@oregonshores.org

A Beloved Fixture on the Central Oregon Coast By Steve Card Before most of Newport has finished its first cup of coffee, Amber Morris is already on the docks. The early morning air along the Bayfront smells of salt, diesel, and fresh catch as fishing boats ease into their slips. Deckhands unload totes heavy with rockfish, lingcod, and salmon, while gulls circle overhead and the harbor slowly wakes to another working day. Moving easily among the fishermen, Amber studies the catch with a practiced eye — lifting a fish here, checking the sheen of the skin there, already knowing which ones will make the best fillets by the time they reach the table. For more than four decades on the Central Oregon Coast, she has done this work with a quiet authority that fishermen respect and customers trust. Around Newport, many people know her simply as the Fish Goddess — a nickname that reflects both her deep knowledge of seafood and her tireless devotion to the fishing community. As the longtime fishmonger at Local Ocean Seafoods , located at 213 SE Bay Blvd on Newport’s historic Bayfront, Amber has become an essential link between the boats that land their catch each morning and the restaurants, markets, and households that depend on the ocean’s bounty. A fishmonger is a specialist in seafood — a professional who selects, prepares (like filleting), and sells fish, often working directly with fishermen to bring the freshest possible product to customers. Amber embodies every part of that traditional craft, rooted in a trade whose very name dates back to Old English, where “monger” meant a dealer or trader. Local Ocean captures her presence perfectly on its website, describing her as a “resident Fish Goddess” who spends her days answering questions, scouring the docks for the freshest catch, and filleting with precision behind the fish case. The affectionate nickname originated with past Local Ocean chef Charlie Branford and quickly became a community-wide title that has stuck ever since.   Building a Life in Seafood Amber’s career began more than four decades ago.“I started working at Depoe Bay Fish Company,” she recalled — a well known fish processing company owned by Jerry & Sheryl Bates. She began working in the crab room before quickly finding her way into the fillet room. When shrimp season opened, she worked side-by-side with experienced processors, learning rapidly. “Two weeks later, they put me in charge of the whole shrimp process, and I’d only been there three months,” she said. “Then they put me in the fish market, and I had every key in the place. I worked with Teresa Maynard, who taught me everything.” Amber stayed with that company for 17 years. But something bothered her: trucks would haul fresh fish from the Bayfront up to Portland to be processed, but it would be days before it made its way back to the coast and into the local restaurants or homes. “I thought, you know what, I’m going to go buy the fish when the boat comes in and bring it to the restaurants,” she said. And so she did. She acquired her wholesale license, began buying directly from local boats – primarily the F/V Helen B, a small dory captained by her son, Sterling Morris. She embarked on a one-woman mission to deliver seafood as fresh as physically possible. “I drove to every restaurant from Lincoln City to Florence. The fish spoke for itself,” she said. Midnight phone calls from a restaurant were not uncommon, and every day she dropped off fish that had been offloaded the night before. (She did this for about 8 years)   Joining Local Ocean Seafoods Amber first connected with Local Ocean because they needed someone to fillet fish. “I stopped by and helped for a few months,” she said. The company’s founder, Laura Anderson, hoped Amber would join them full-time. “She really wanted me to work here, but I was busy with what I was doing,” said Amber. Eventually though, in 2008, Amber began working there full-time. Laura Anderson said it was a perfect match.“It’s like it’s just her whole purpose in life to support the fishermen. She just lives and breathes it… When we started the fish market, all of the fishermen said, ‘You need Amber Morris.’” At first Amber balanced both her independent wholesale business and her role at Local Ocean, but over time she transitioned fully into the fish market. “I could just see how much she cared about the community, about the fishers,” Laura said. “It’s just pure love. She’s all heart.” Credit: Patty DiRienzo   A Passion for Fishermen and Fresh Seafood When asked what inspires her, Amber’s answer is simple:“The passion of taking care of the fishermen and providing fresh product to the people who want fish and to the restaurants.” That passion has ripple effects throughout the entire organization. According to company president and CEO Tony Bixler, Local Ocean purchases fish from between 35 and 70 vessels each year, and Amber manages all of those relationships. Fish she procures is used in the restaurant, sold in the market, or included in Local Ocean’s signature DockBox meal kits .   The 100 Percent Fish Initiative Local Ocean is committed to reducing waste and using every part of every fish — an effort known as the 100 percent fish initiative. In commercial processing, only 35 to 65 percent of a fish typically becomes fillet. Local Ocean aims to use it all. To help lead that work, they brought on Darlene Khalafi as their 100 percent fish business innovation specialist.“I deal with what’s left after Amber procures and buys it, (and) our Local Ocean team fillets it,” Darlene explained. “We separate the rest of the fish into usable parts — for pet treats, bone broths, or products for farmers and ranchers like compost or soil amendments.” Of her working relationship with Amber, Darlene said, “She is one of the first people you just have to know when you learn anything about Local Ocean or Newport and fishing. She not only knows your fish order but your dog’s name and probably your Zodiac symbol.” For Amber, the zero-waste philosophy is second nature. “I’ve kind of always had that approach,” she said. “That’s how I feel.”   A Community Icon Amber’s community involvement extends far beyond the fish market counter. In addition to supporting local fishermen, businesses and community members, she is very supportive of groups like the Newport Fishermen’s Wives , a nonprofit supporting fishing families and industry education. Taunette Dixon of that organization said, “I grew up in Newport, so I’ve known Amber as long as I can remember. She’s always supported the fishermen… She’s a treasure for us.” Taunette described Amber as the welcoming face behind the counter, someone who can explain every piece of seafood and teach both locals and tourists how simple it can be to prepare. “Educating a lot of the tourists about our seafood is so important for our industry, and she does a great job.”   A Lifelong Calling After more than 40 years living and working on the Oregon Coast, Amber has no plans to slow down. “I’m not going anywhere,” she said with a smile. “It’s my passion. I’ll get a phone call at 5 in the morning and I’m right there. All of the fishermen have my number, and I always pick the phone up; always.” In Newport, they already know that. The Fish Goddess is part of the tide, part of the fleet, and part of the heart of this coastal community — connecting people to the ocean’s bounty one fillet at a time.

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.