4 Places to Fall in Love with in Newport

If you’re vacationing in Newport this fall, there are four places that you have to check out. Bonus? They’re all inexpensive or free! If you and your family love spending time outdoors and exploring what the natural Oregon coast has to offer, come check out the following attractions: The Hatfield Marine Science Center, Donald A. Davis Park, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, and Devil’s Punch Bowl State Park. All of these places are within minutes of your vacation rental in Newport, South Beach, and even fairly close to Depoe Bay.

The Hatfield Marine Science Center is the perfect place for young scientists to explore and learn about the natural life surrounding the ocean and the animals that inhabit it’s deep watery recesses. The people at the Hatfield Marine Science Center will help you learn all about sustainable fishing, tidal pools, erosion, and much more. Outside of the center, look for whales and other marine animals, or watch the sunset as it settles over the Pacific. Located at 2030 SE Marine Science Dr in Newport, Oregon, you can walk down to the beautiful Yaquina Bay Bridge and take amazing photos of the waterfront or get food and drinks at Rogue Ale’s Brewery while you’re waiting for your group to exit the center.

The Donald A. Davis Park, located at 840 W Olive Street in Newport, is a lovely area perfect for the entire family. Situated right by the ocean, this park has gorgeous views of the Pacific ocean and even lovelier views of the sunset, especially during the summer months. With a cute, cobblestone pathway, benches and other sitting areas, and even a gazebo, the Donald A. Davis Park is a great spot to host a picnic. Along with the great views and plenty of seating, this park features a Vietnam Veterans Memorial and some other artwork.

The Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area can be found at 750 NW Lighthouse Dr in Newport. You can find Oregon’s tallest lighthouse in this area, along with plenty of grass to sit down on and enjoy a nice picnic or sunbathe. This is a popular area for marine wildlife viewing and is also home to Cobble Beach. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is perfect for the family or even a date. Come watch the sunset with your loved ones near a lighthouse that’s been in existence since August 20, 1873!

Devil’s Punch Bowl State Park is located right off of Hwy 101 in Newport. This beautiful scenic point is a must see and is well known for its’ punch bowl like shape. Geologists believe that Devil’s Punch Bowl was created when two sea cave roofs collapsed. Either way, it’s an amazing thing to see for yourself. With plenty of picnic areas around the area to settle down and enjoy lunch on, you can even do some whale watching from this state park. Fun for the whole family, come enjoy the sunset down at Devil’s Punch Bowl State Park and make sure to capture all of your memories of this incredible natural landmark.