Spring Break 2008: The Oregon Coast Newport

The Oregon coastline boasts several unique attributes-one important one being that all beaches are publicly owned. If you are searching for a fun place to go for spring break, consider visiting Newport, which is located about 130 miles from Portland and is on the central coastline.

Where to stay

Camping-Newport offers several area campgrounds and YURTS (Year Round Universal Recreational Tents). For the adventurous minded who doesn't shy away from rain, tent camping is available. Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so you could just as easily enjoy milder temperatures and some sunshine. It just depends on what the weather is doing when you go. South Beach State Park is just two miles outside of Newport, but I suggest going a little further up to Beverly Beach State Park, which is about 7 miles North and is a much more comfortable place to stay at. It is a very wooded area, which gives protection from the wind. It is incredibly beautiful and has all sorts of hiking trails and easy access to a wonderful beach. There are quite a few YURTS available in case you want to experience camping with a little more protection from the elements.

Hotels-As you drive through Newport, you'll find all sorts of hotels ranging from super expensive like the Embarcadero Resort Hotel, many bed and breakfast places and even a few that are a little more budget friendly. We always camp when we go to Newport, so I can't offer any firsthand recommendations, but there are many rooms that are available in town, so you shouldn't have any trouble securing a place to stay.

There is a hostel in Newport as well.

What to do

Aside from flying kites, building sandcastles on the beach and just kicking back with a good book, the city of Newport has a slew of activities that will entertain you.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is in Newport (2820 SE Ferry Slip Road) , which is probably best known for being home to Keiko the Whale. The aquarium is a fun place to explore and you can enjoy some special spring break programs they have planned. There is a fee to get in ($14.25 for adults and $8.75 for kids).

The Hatfield Marine Science Center (Oregon State University, 2030 SE Marine Science Dr) has a visitor's center that is a bargain because they just ask for a donation. You can see all sorts of sea creatures here and enjoy free lectures on all sorts of interesting topics (this month they are talking about sea turtles). Go during public feeding times and you can see the octopus or wolf eel being fed. (Eel feedings are Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:30 am, Octopus feedings are Monday, Thursday and Saturday at 1 pm.)

Ripley's Believe it Or Not Museum
Newport Wax Museum
Undersea Garden
On Bay Boulevard you'll find all three of these family favorites and you can buy a combined ticket to see all three. According to my kids, there is really not much point in going to Newport unless you are going to visit this trio. I think it is kind of expensive, but you can make most of a day out of it and get a better value for the money. Bring a picnic lunch and you can sit and watch the sea lions on the dock nearby (you will find them easily just by listening!) The cost to see one attraction is $9.95 for adults, $5.95 for kids, or you can see all three for $21.95 for adults and $12.90 per child.

Where to eat

If you want to experience some of the best clam chowder on the west coast, you'll need to stop by Mo's Restaurant (657 SW Bay Blvd.). Aside from excellent food, you'll also enjoy a fabulous view of the ocean, sea lions, gulls and boats.

Newport has all sorts of fast food places, so you can eat for less. There is also a really good Izzy's Pizza Buffet (5251 N Coast Highway) where you can get all you can eat pizza, chicken, salad, dessert and drinks. I get hungry just thinking about it!

Getting there:

DiscoverNewport.org offers these directions:

Driving from the North

From Portland, take I-5 South to Corvallis, Exit #228 to Hwy 34 West. Head west on Hwy 20 to Newport. Or take Hwy 99 West to Hwy 18 to Lincoln City. Head south on Hwy 101 to Newport. Driving from the South

From Eugene or further south, take I-5 North to Corvallis, Exit #228 to Hwy 34 West and then take Hwy 20 to Newport.