If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly getaway on the Oregon Coast, we highly recommend spending a few days exploring Newport, Oregon! We just wrapped up an incredible 5 days, 4 nights there and had a blast. Between beautiful beaches, amazing seafood, and awesome educational stops for the kids, there’s so much to love. Here’s how we spent our time and what we recommend!
Where We Stayed
We camped at South Beach State Park, located just about 10 minutes south of Newport.
Campground Info:
- Electric and water hookups available
- Large park with playground for the kids
- Walkable or bikeable access straight to the beach
- Access to the Cooper Ridge Nature Trail
- Tons of loops to choose from — we highly recommend Loop G for a more tucked-away, private vibe!
Tip: South Beach can be windy, but it’s perfect for kite flying! 🎏 We brought ours and had a blast.
Fees:
- Campsites with hookups: $34–$42 per night
- Yurts are available for $69 Per Night
- Reservations can be made here which we highly recommend to make in advance.
Things To Do 🚀🐠
1. Oregon Coast Aquarium 🐡🐧
The Oregon Coast Aquarium was hands-down a highlight for us and the kids!
- Amazing exhibits featuring marine life native to the Pacific Northwest
- Walkthrough the Passages of the Deep underwater tunnel 🐟
- Interactive touch pools where kids can gently touch starfish and anemones 🌟
- Playful sea otters, puffins, and seals 🦦
- Awesome outdoor playground
Info:
Open Daily from 10am-5pm
Address: 2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd, Newport, OR 97365
- Adults (18–64): $27.95
- Youth (3–17): $17.95
- Under 2: FREE 🎉
TIP: Get tickets ahead of time here!
2. South Beach State Park Beach 🚴♀️🎏
Besides the campground, the beach at South Beach is awesome for walking, playing, and flying kites!
- Bring your bikes and hit the South Jetty Trail 🚲
- Great for little legs too — mostly flat and scenic!
Info:
- Beach access is open 24/7 🌅
- No extra fee if you’re camping! Otherwise, day-use parking is $5.
- Address: 5580 SW Coast Hwy, Newport, OR 97366
3. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area 🏛️🌊
Such a cool spot! Don’t get confused with the other Yaquina Lighthouse location in southern Newport, OR! There’s apparently 2! We only visited the one mentioned here since it was larger and more to see.
- Explore the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse 🗼
- Walk down to Cobble Beach from the lighthouse parking lot to check out the tidepools filled with colorful sea life and view seals hanging out on the rocks 🦀
- Visitor center with hands-on exhibits about the coast 🌊
Info:
- Open Daily: 8:00 AM – Sunset
- Vehicles: $7 per day (or free with an America the Beautiful pass!)
- Address: 750 NW Lighthouse Dr, Newport, OR 97365
Pro tip: Check tide charts before you go if you want the best tidepool viewing!
4. OSU Hatfield Marine Science Visitor Center 🧪🔬
A hidden gem we were so glad we visited!
- Interactive science exhibits kids loved (and adults too!) 🐙
- Learn about marine research and the coastal environment 🌎
- Touch tanks, tsunami education, and more
Info:
- Wednesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Only $5 per person above the ages of 5!
- Address: 2030 SE Marine Science Dr
5. Newport Pier
Reminds me of a mini version of Fishermen’s Wharf in San Francisco
- Experience Sea Lions up close and free!
- Lots of cute stores to check out along Bay Blvd.
- Tons of restaurants to dine in!
Info:
- Open whenever the Sea Lions are there
- Cost: Free!
- Address: Port Dock One, 325 SW Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365
Where We Ate
South Beach Fish Market 🦀
- OMG — the crab sandwiches here are BOMB!!! 🦀🔥
- No frills, just super fresh seafood. A must-visit.
- Open Daily: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Address: 3640 S Coast Hwy, South Beach, OR 97366
Rogue Brewery Headquarters 🍺🍔
- Famous for craft beer but also great food options 🍻
- Family-friendly seating and cool waterfront views
- Open Daily: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Address: 2320 SE Marine Science Dr, Newport, OR 97365
Camp One Coffee and Donuts 🍩☕
- Adorable drive through coffee stand with delicious donuts 🍩💖
- Great coffee to fuel your Newport adventures!
- Open Monday–Saturday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Address: 121 NE 15th St, Newport, OR 97365
RISE Coffee Newport ☕🌟
- Located on the OSU campus, we were surprised by how GOOD the lattes were!
- Super friendly staff and cozy vibes. Perfect quick stop before hitting the beach.
- Open Monday-Friday: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Address: 2030 SE Marine Science Dr, Newport, OR 97365
Final Thoughts
We loved every minute of our time in Newport and already can’t wait to return. Between the beach, the marine science activities, and the AMAZING food, it’s the perfect Oregon Coast family destination. Let us know if you visit — and don’t forget your kite! Happy adventuring!
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