Before we get to all the things to do, why Pacific City? First of all, it’s little. With just over 1,000 permanent residents, it’s not a bustling, sprawling city. That means you can easily explore the little Oregon Coast town and feel at home right away.

Next up, Pacific City is home to some of the most stunning scenery on the Coast. Haystack Rock sits a mile off-shore and acts as both a landmark and beacon—so you can always answer the question of where you are. (Answer: Right where you should be!)

I wish I could bottle up how special Pacific City, Oregon is. (I’d be a bajillionaire.) Since I can’t, though, I did the next best thing… and got it tattooed on my arm. Seriously.

So if you’re wondering where to go on the Oregon Coast, may I recommend Pacific City?

Read on for the most fun things to do in Pacific City, Oregon, the best restaurants, where to stay and more!

Things to do in Pacific City, Oregon

Since Pacific City is small, you won’t find a ton of big-city activities. That’s kind of the point, right? You will find plenty of things to do in Pacific City, Oregon that revolve around the outdoors.

This beautiful Oregon Coast town is full of outdoor activities, from hiking and surfing to splashing and beach combing.

Read on for my 7 favorite things to do in Pacific City, OR.

1. Explore the sand dunes of Pacific City

Rolling dunes run alongside the ocean in Pacific City, creating a sandy wonderland! I dare you to run down the sand dunes and not giggle like a little kid.

Sure, the dunes require extra effort to walk up and down—and you’ll need to cross them to reach Pacific Beach in some parts. Worth it? Absolutely.

I recommend checking out the dunes at Bob Straub State Park. (Also, how fun is it to say that name?!) While it may be tempting to walk barefoot from the parking lot, wear your shoes. That way your feet aren’t poked by the burrs from dune grass. Ouch!

The sand dunes also make an amazing spot to post up with a lawn chair and your favorite beverage. You can people watch as well as whale watch from these great vantage points!

2. Watch the dory boats

A fleet of about 300 dory boats is based in Pacific City and launches from the beach next to Pelican Brewery. This one-of-a-kind fishing fleet is amazing to watch in action. Without a harbor or pier, the fishermen and women literally run their small boats into the water.

The traditional fleet catches salmon, tuna, rockfish and crab—some of which you can eat in local Pacific City restaurants!

3. Check out Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda juts into the Pacific Ocean, creating a calm spot for launching dories. It also provides plenty of fun things to do in Pacific City!

The sandstone headland overlooks Haystack Rock and the ocean beyond—great for whale watching. Make sure to admire the view from within the fenced-off area. The land is made of sandstone, which can easily crumble beneath your feet. People have died from venturing past the fence—just don’t do it.

Once you park in the day use area ($10/vehicle), get ready for a steep climb up the dunes. The walk is beautiful and well worth the effort! You may want to run full-tilt down the dune on the south end of the park. You’ll be shocked at how fast your body moves!

4. Hike at the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Just a few miles south of Pacific City, you can explore the beautiful Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This preserve is full of wildlife—bring your binoculars to go bird watching, see elk and even spot whales.

Hike some of Nestucca Bay’s many trails. Some wind through the woods; others take you to a viewpoint overlooking the ocean. During the spring and early summer, you might be rewarded with gorgeous hillsides full of wildflowers!

5. Admire Haystack Rock, Pacific City

This is confusing, but there are actually two famous Haystack Rocks on the Oregon Coast. One lies off the coast of Cannon Beach; the other is here in Pacific City. It seems like folks could have come up with different names for these enormous sea stacks, but I don’t make the rules.

The Pacific City Haystack Rock is actually larger than the one in Cannon Beach. It only appears to be smaller because it’s farther away, about a mile offshore. Unlike its namesake farther south, the Haystack Rock in Pacific City can’t be explored up-close.

Still, it’s a gorgeous landmark—and one that makes Pacific City’s views unique!

6. Pacific City surfing

Pacific City, Oregon has become a popular surfing destination. Consistent breaks draw seasoned surfers along with beginners. You can rent boards and wetsuits in town.

Even if you don’t want to get in the water yourself, you can watch the surfers catch waves. If you’re visiting Pacific City in the fall, check out the Cape Kiwanda Longboard Classic. This surfing contest and celebration is also a fundraiser to build a local skate park.

7. Catch the sunset

One thing you can usually count on at the Oregon Coast: epic sunsets.

Pacific City, OR is no exception.

You can’t really pick a bad place to catch the sunset in Pacific City. That said, you won’t be disappointed while watching the sun go down from Cape Kiwanda, the dunes at Bob Straub or while sipping a microbrew from Pelican Brewery.

Pacific City Beach

It’s no surprise that the beach is one of the biggest draws to this Oregon Coast beach town. Pacific City Beach stretches from Cape Kiwanda down south through Bob Straub State Park. With access points throughout Pacific City, there’s literally no bad place to explore Pacific City Beach.

Recently my sister-in-law asked if the Oregon Coast was a swimsuit kind of a place. I laughed because she asked me this in January (brr!), but truthfully you can sometimes swim in the ocean here. Proof:

While Pacific City weather typically skews toward dip-your-toes-in-the-ocean, rather than full-on submersion, the beach here is beautiful.

My favorite spot to access Pacific City Beach: Bob Straub State Park. The parking lots are at the south end of town and are free, despite it being a state park. I like this beach because fewer people hang out here than the beach in front of Pelican Brewery.

The best Pacific City restaurants

Seafood is a big draw at the best Pacific City restaurants. Some of the fish and crab is incredibly fresh—as in caught that day—so it’s hard to go wrong!

You can find plenty else to eat besides seafood if that’s not your thing. Many Pacific City restaurants don’t require (or don’t accept) reservations, though the more upscale ones do during peak hours and the summer season.

Pelican Brewery

The most popular Pacific City restaurant is definitely Pelican Brewery. It’s not hard to figure out why: The food is great, and the location is perfect.

Situated directly on the beach, with impressive views of Haystack Rock and Cape Kiwanda, you get incredible landscapes alongside your meal. The outdoor seating makes you feel as if you’re eating directly on the beach.

Pelican Brewery also has a great kids’ menu and gluten-free options. (I’ve particularly enjoyed their GF pizza bread.) If your kids get antsy while they wait, they can step outside and play in the sand right next to the table!

Pelican Brewery gets really busy during peak times, especially on weekends. Prepare yourself for a wait or eat outside of the most popular hours.

If you’re using the public parking directly next to Pelican Brewery for beach access, you can stop at Pelican Brewery’s to-go window. Grab a growler or can of beer to go or to accompany your beachfront picnic. (Just brown bag it, as technically you’re not supposed to have open alcoholic beverages on the beach. To my knowledge this technicality isn’t really enforced.)

Oar House

The Oar House is a combination pub and restaurant, with more emphasis on the menu than a typical bar. Unsurprisingly, it has plenty of fresh seafood options, including crab. Its prime rib night on weekends draws plenty of locals, too.

Ben & Jeff’s Burgers

This walk-up restaurant is great for a quick to-go meal. Order your burgers and take your meal down to the beach for an easy picnic.

Not into burgers? This Pacific City restaurant also serves tacos and breakfast burritos.

Hotels: Pacific City, Oregon

Now that you can’t wait to visit, your next question may wonder about where to stay.

You’ll find short-term rentals in neighborhoods (some of which come with boogie boards and bicycles—yes please!). You may also want to stay at one of the great hotels in Pacific City.

Since the town is small, you don’t have to choose from among dozens of Pacific City hotels. (Isn’t it nice to have fewer choices sometimes?) With hotels and lodging at different price points, you’ll be able to find a great place to stay.

Do your best to book a Pacific City hotel well in advance if you’re visiting during the summer. Off-season trips can be more easily booked at the last minute.

What are you waiting for? If you’re anything like me, you’re already hankering to hit the road. Pacific City, Oregon is ready!

The post Gorgeous Pacific City, Oregon: Things to do, restaurants + more appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Did I mention the beaches?

If you’re wondering what to do in Newport, I’ve highlighted the best activities and attractions below. But that’s not all. I’ve basically collected all the info you need to make this Oregon Coast vacation unforgettable.

In this guide to Newport, Oregon, you’ll find out about:

• The best attractions and things to do in Newport, including the Oregon Coast Aquarium
• Nearby hikes
• The most gorgeous Newport beaches
• Newport, Oregon restaurants (oh my goodness the seafood!)
• Hotels and other lodging
• And more!

If—somehow—you’re still on the fence about reading all about this Oregon Coast town, keep scrolling down. You’re in for a treat—i.e. photos of adorable sea otters! Squee!

Get ready to learn all you need to know to take a Newport, Oregon vacation.

What to do in Newport, Oregon

If you’re looking for Newport, Oregon activities, you’re in luck! That’s because there are so many fun things to do in this Oregon Coast town.

You’ll never feel bored or at a loss for what to do—especially with the below recommendations of activities. Read on to learn about all these Newport, Oregon activities:

• Oregon Coast crabbing
• Newport Farmer’s Market
• Newport, Oregon hikes
• Oregon Coast Aquarium
• Downtown Newport and the Historic Bayfront
• Hatfield Marine Science Center
• Aquarium Village
• Oregon Coast murals

Get ready to have fun with these fun things to do in Newport, Oregon.

Oregon Coast Crabbing

If you want to go crabbing on the Oregon Coast, you can rent a boat and traps, then head out into the water. You don’t have to, though: Crabbing in Newport makes it easy.

In fact, Newport is nicknamed the Dungeness Crab Capital of the World!

Simply rent or buy crabbing traps (aka crab pots), then head to a crabbing pier in Newport. You can park in the public parking area near Rogue Brewery, then walk to the public pier in South Beach. (Other crabbing spots are in the Historic Bayfront—look for Abbey Street Pier or Bay Street Pier.) Add bait, tie the crab pot to something along the pier, and wait about 45 minutes. Pull up the pot to check what you’ve caught!

You can also charter a boat to take you crabbing out on the water.

When is Crabbing Season in Oregon?

So you’re interested in crabbing on the Oregon Coast. Great! You’ll probably be wondering: When is crabbing season in Oregon?

You can crab year-round in Oregon. You can set out crab pots and traps from jetties, piers, and bays in any month. That said, the fall is typically the best time to catch crab because they’ve put on more meat.

When it comes to ocean crabbing for Dungeness, the season closes from October 16 to November 30.

Note: You’ll need a valid and current shellfish license to go crabbing. You’ll also need a tool to measure the crab you catch so you keep only ones that are large enough.

Newport Farmer’s Market

When I travel, I love to eat local—and one way to do that is to shop at farmer’s markets. Newport, Oregon is no different!

The Newport Farmer’s Market is open outdoors seasonally on Saturdays. You can find produce (you’re in luck if you come during strawberry season! Buy all the Hood strawberries you can), honey, eggs and more. You’ll also find prepared food, coffee and espresso stands, and locally made gifts. Sure, you can buy a mass-produced souvenir, or you could bring home a memento crafted by a local artisan.

Newport, Oregon Hikes

I love hitting the trails, so it’s no surprised I’m eager to tell you about Newport, Oregon hikes!

Hatfield Marine Science Center Estuary Trail This paved trail takes you around Newport Bay. It’s not exactly a strenuous hike, but you’ll have a chance to see the bay at a slower pace than you would driving by. Park in or near the Hatfield Center. 1.1 miles.

Yaquina Head Natural Outstanding Area This beautiful area on the north end of Newport offers several very short hikes in Newport. You can walk from the parking area at the visitor’s center to Cobble Beach and then to the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Read my full article on the Yaquina Head Natural Outstanding Area for more details.

Devils Punchbowl Drive 15 minutes north of Newport to get to Devils Punchbowl. Most folks park and admire this natural rock formation from above. But if you go at low tide, you can get down to the beach and then walk inside the collapsed cave. Find out how by checking out my post on hiking Devils Punchbowl.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

A trip to Newport, Oregon isn’t complete without a visit to the Oregon Coast Aquarium! The aquarium became famous in the mid-1990s because it was home to Keiko, the orca from the movie Free Willy. Keiko was later, well, freed, and the aquarium is still well worth a stop.

Otters, sea lions, jellyfish, giant spider crabs and one very secretive octopus: See these underwater animals (and many more) when you visit. The Passages of the Deep exhibit, which takes you through a glass tube underwater, is my girls’ favorite part of the aquarium.

You’ll need between 1.5 and 2 hours to explore this Newport, Oregon attraction, depending on how quickly you go and if you watch feedings.

We have been members at the aquarium for years, so don’t miss my insider’s guide to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. I also wrote all about the overnight sleepover at the aquarium, which we can’t wait to do again! (Face masks are required at the aquarium for COVID safety precautions.)

Explore Downtown Newport and the Historic Bayfront

The Historic Bayfront, the heart of Newport, is full of fun things to do as well as a fully functional harbor. That’s what makes this neighborhood so exciting.

Edie in particular loves watching the boats come and go. Fishermen dock here, bringing in the day’s catch to sell.

Newport’s Historic Bayfront is also home to many places to eat, especially seafood restaurants, as you’d expect!

Even if you’re not hungry or wanting to buy souvenirs, I still recommend walking around the Historic Bayfront. This neighborhood definitely gives you a sense of Newport’s character.

Buy Fresh Fish on the Historic Bayfront, Newport

If you’re staying at a home rental in Newport and want to cook the freshest fish you’ve ever eaten, Newport is your spot. You can buy fish right off the boat in the Historic Bayfront.

In the spring through fall, go to docks 3, 5 and 7 to buy your future dinner from local fishermen. (The fish available depends on the season and availability, of course.) You may be able to find salmon, tuna, black cod, halibut and ling cod.

You can also ask them to filet the fish for you.

Some boats sell canned fish as well. Canned tuna and salmon makes a unique (and very welcome!) gift for the folks who weren’t lucky enough to join you in Newport, OR for vacation.

One last note about buying fish from fishermen in Newport: Buying direct means the maximum amount of money from the sale goes straight to the hardworking people who caught your food. You get the absolute freshest catch, and you support independent businesses. It’s a win-win.

Hatfield Marine Science Center

At the Hatfield Marine Science Center, you can watch a giant Pacific octopus play, touch sea urchins and create tiny tsunamis in a wave simulator. The visitor center is run by the science center, part of Oregon State University’s marine biology program.

More good news: The Hatfield Marine Science Center is a free thing to do in Newport, Oregon! The center is located just north of the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

COVID-19 update: The Hatfield Marine Science Center was closed to visitors during the peak of the pandemic but is now open!

Wander Aquarium Village

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located south of Yaquina Bay, not in the Historic Bayfront (where many people assume it is). Unfortunately, that means the area around the aquarium isn’t walkable: You’ll need to drive there.

If you’re looking for more fun things to do in Newport, drive a little farther south and you’ll reach the Aquarium Village.

The Aquarium Village is a short distance from the Oregon Coast Aquarium. This Newport, Oregon attraction is made up of a few blocks of colorfully painted buildings. Home to shops, restaurants and even an escape room, families can have fun checking out the Aquarium Village.

Find Oregon Coast Murals

Long-term readers of To & Fro Fam know how much my kids and I adore street art. If you do, too, you’ll love keeping an eye out for murals in Newport.

As you might expect, most of these murals are ocean-themed. You’ll find them painted on buildings in the Historic Bayfront as well as around Aquarium Village.

Order an ice cream from BJ’s or Doodle Bugs, then walk around the bay. You’ll stumble across some gems! Beautiful street art tops my list of fun Newport, Oregon attractions.

Newport Beaches

You’ve come to the Oregon Coast for a reason, right? I’m betting at least part of that reason has to do with Newport beaches.

The Oregon Coast can be temperamental. Some days are fogged in; others are rainy and chilly; still others are so warm you’ll mistake the beach for California!

That said, please don’t bet on sunny and hot weather. You risk being disappointed. Instead, plan to enjoy Newport beaches—or any other spot on the Oregon Coast—no matter the weather. (If you end up visiting in crummy conditions, read my post on things to do on the Oregon Coast when it rains.)

Newport beaches are gorgeous—you’ll want to visit all of them! Here are our favorites.

Nye Beach, Newport

Nye Beach is both an historic neighborhood as well as a beach in Newport, OR. The neighborhood is home to cute shops, and old-timey ice cream spot and Coast Park, which has an enormously tall slide.

Nye Beach is another beautiful sand beach. Access it next to the public parking lot on NW Beach Dr., past the Chowder Bowl restaurant.

Take a rest on the benches that overlook this Newport, Oregon beach, or bring your kite. This beach’s wide open space and windy days make it an excellent kite flying spot!

Yaquina Bay Beach

When we go to a Newport, Oregon beach, we typically head to the one within Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site. To get to the beach, you walk down a path through wind-twisted trees.

The wide, fine-sand beach is well worth the short hike. This beach makes it feel as though you could run until your legs gave out—and still be on the same stretch of sand!

My kids also love climbing on the driftwood here. At the south end of the beach, a jetty juts into the ocean, protecting Yaquina Bay.

Yaquina Beach is located just north of the bridge that crosses Yaquina Bay. I typically find parking easily here, and there are restrooms as well as a spigot to wash sand off your feet.

South Beach

Just south of the Newport bridge, on the other side of Yaquina Bay, is South Beach. Miles of fine-sand beach stretches south of the South Jetty and is accessibly by this state park.

If you want a break from the beach, you can access hiking and biking trails here. Or try your hand at disc golf! You can get a map for the disc golf course at the visitor center.

Know that the area around South Beach is marshy, which means mosquitoes are an issue beginning in mid- to late-June. Bring insect repellant.

Agate Beach

Agate Beach, on the north end of Newport, is another wide and sandy stretch that’s perfect for beach combing and playing in the waves. But contrary to what its name suggests, this is not actually a good spot to find agates! Changes in the nearby jetties have caused sand to build up at Agate Beach. That’s good news for people who like wide beaches but bad news for rock hounds.

(For suggestions on other, better places to find agates, check out my recommendations on Oregon Coast beaches.)

When you look north, you’ll see the Yaquina Head Lighthouse in the distance. The view alone makes Agate Beach worth a stop.

Beverly Beach

My kids and I love Beverly Beach, which is just north of Newport, OR. This sandy stretch also has a creek where kids and dogs love to splash. The water in the creek is warmer than the ocean, which makes it more comfortable for a quick dip!

The best part about Beverly Beach, in my opinion, is that you can find tons of fossils here. Look in the sandstone cliffs and the rocks for fossilized shells.

For all the details—including camping at the state park here—read my full post on Beverly Beach, Oregon.

Cobble Beach

Cobble Beach, in the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, is unique. It’s made up of countless round stones. These volcanic rocks clack together when the waves rush in, making for one of our favorite Newport, Oregon attractions. This makes a distinctive noise that gave the beach its nickname: Laughing Beach.

You’ll need to walk a flight of stairs down to the beach, so it is not ADA accessible. Once you’re there, you can explore tide pools at low tide. You will also need to stay clear of an area popular with sea lions: It’ll be roped off.

While you’re visiting Cobble Beach, don’t miss checking out the rest of the area. Read all about things to do there, including checking out an historic lighthouse, in my full post about the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area.

Newport, Oregon Lodging

I love small towns on the Oregon Coast, but they can be very limited for places to stay. That’s not the case with Newport, Oregon lodging.

Here, you’ll find plenty of options. You can stay in a short-term home rental. You can stay in one of many Newport, Oregon hotels. Heck, you can even go camping!

When you’re looking for lodging, check out Google maps. It will show you how close it is to Newport beaches. I always recommend people stay on the west side of Highway 101, if possible. That way you can more easily walk to the beach. (It can be irritating to cross Highway 101, especially if you’re all sandy!)

Newport, Oregon Hotels

If you’re going the hotel route, you have a whole range of choices. If you’re particular, you can search for oceanfront properties or Newport, Oregon hotels with an ocean view.

When you look for where to stay in Newport, consider if you want to prioritize beach access, cost, or proximity to the Historic Bayfront. It’s really, really hard to get all three of those factors!

As a general rule, oceanfront hotels are more expensive. You’ll probably pay more for a room on the west side of Highway 101 vs on the east side.

If you’re looking to get fancy, can I recommend the Inn at Nye Beach? It’s a gorgeous spot in an historic neighborhood within easy walking distance of the ocean. The best part: the Inn at Nye Beach is home to an infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean—the only one of its kind in Oregon!

For a range of other lodging options, check out these Newport, Oregon hotels:

Newport, Oregon Camping

Would you rather pitch a tent or drive your motorhome to the Oregon Coast? Then you might love these Newport camping options.

South Beach State Park. Expect a standard Oregon state park campground: decently sized sites, flush toilets, garbage pickup, and tidy campground. You’ll also have easy access to South Beach.

Pacific Shores MotorCoach Resort As its name suggests, this Newport, Oregon camping option is for RVs only. (That excludes travel trailers, if I’m not mistaken.) The RV campground includes an outdoor pool and beach access.

Beverly Beach State Park Just north of Newport, you’ll find Beverly Beach State Park. (If you remember, this is the Newport beach with fossils!) You can easily walk to the beach from the campsites or stroll the campground’s nature trails. Beverly Beach also has reservable yurts that have electricity.

Newport, Oregon Restaurants

Has enjoying all these Newport, Oregon activities worked up an appetite? If so, you’re in luck! This Oregon Coast town of course specializes in seafood, but that’s not the only option you have.

Newport, Oregon restaurants also include brew pubs, American food, Thai cuisine and more. But—if you’re not vegetarian—why not take advantage and dine on what the sea provides?

Local Ocean

Local Ocean is probably my favorite seafood restaurant in Newport. The food is incredibly fresh (most of the catch comes directly from the boats that dock just across the street!). The restaurant works directly with roughly 50 fishermen.

Like its name suggests, Local Ocean specializes in seafood. I’ve had their tuna kebabs, skewered scallops, and bites of a friend’s Dungeness crab cakes. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on this Newport restaurant’s menu. If you can’t decide, close your eyes and point to the menu. Whatever your finger lands on is sure to be delicious!

Rogue Brewery

Quick story: I once took Edie to Newport for a mother-daughter date, just the two of us. She ate hardly any lunch, and we played for three hours on South Beach in uncharacteristically beautiful weather. By the time we finished, we were both starving.

I took Edie to Rogue Brewery for dinner. She ordered a cheeseburger—and devoured it in record time. I’m sure that hunger was an important seasoning here, but she *still* measures every single cheeseburger she eats against the legendary Rogue Brewery burger. So far nothing else has measured up!

I can’t promise you’ll be as obsessed with your Rogue meal, but I bet you’ll enjoy it. Expect a typical brew pub menu and a great kids’ menu. I usually order the Northwest garden salad but sub the dressing, as I think the basil vinaigrette is overly sweet.

One fun thing about eating at Rogue in Newport is you walk through the brewery to get to the restaurant, which is on the second floor. It’s cool to see the enormous tanks where the beer is brewed, including the famous Dead Guy Ale.

Rogue is located mere minutes away from the Oregon Coast Aquarium, which makes it a perfect Newport, Oregon restaurant for before or after a visit. (I much prefer it to the other nearby restaurants on that side of the Bay.)

The Chalet: Gluten-free fish and chips!

The Chalet is impossible to miss: It’s the bright blue building on Highway 101. What this Newport restaurant lacks in architectural appeal it makes up for in **gluten-free fish and chips!**

If you’re GF like me, you’re probably bummed that you can never eat fish and chips when visiting the Oregon Coast. After all, those pieces of fish are breaded with, well, bread.

That’s why I’m beyond excited that The Chalet offers gluten-free fish and chips. Finally!

Fish Peddler’s Market and Restaurant

When you first walk into Fish Peddler’s, you might not realize that it’s actually a restaurant. It looks more like a fresh fish shop. In reality, it’s both!

In fact, the unique thing about this Newport seafood restaurant is that you can pick the fish you want to eat—right from the counter.

It’s definitely a different experience. You know the fish is high quality and super-fresh because you can see it. This informal Newport, Oregon restaurant is also incredibly kid-friendly.

Mo’s: Famous clam chowder

Mo’s is an iconic restaurant with several locations along the Oregon Coast. It’s most famous for clam chowder, which you can eat while looking across the bay.

You’ll need luck to snag a window table, since Mo’s is packed (especially on weekends and peak meal times). If you want a better chance of watching the resident sea lions or boats going by, eat at Mo’s on a weekday or “off” times.

All the rest you need to know

Be honest: What’s Newport, Oregon weather really like?

Yes, yes, I know that Oregon has the reputation of constantly raining. Newport, Oregon weather isn’t so terrible, though!

Let me be more specific. Between November and April, it rains roughly half of all days. Yes, that’s a lot of rain. The amount of rain is less than you might think. In Oregon, drizzles are more common than outright downpours.

Newport, Oregon weather gets dryer and sunnier in the summer. Rainy days decrease between May and September. In July, the city averages only two rainy days!

The temperate weather is one reason why people love visiting Newport. Temperatures are nearly always mild, both in the winter and summer. For example, the average high temperature in December is 50 degrees. In July—the sunniest month—high temps average 61 degrees! So bring both warm layers and sunscreen when you visit Newport, Oregon.

What about the tides in Newport, OR?

Just like everywhere on the Oregon Coast, the tides change daily. You’ll need to look at a tides chart to find out when low and high tides are.

Newport Oregon Tides Chart

As always, keep a keen eye on the ocean. Always be aware of the tide so you know if it’s coming in. Tides can rise quickly, and you don’t want to be caught by an unexpected wave.

What’s Newport known for?

Newport, Oregon is known for its fishing and crabbing. As a working harbor, Yaquina Bay allows fishermen to dock and unload their catch. Ling cod, halibut, rockfish and albacore tuna are all caught in the Pacific Ocean here.

Three types of salmon also congregate in the waters around Newport. Coho, chinook and chum salmon can all be caught here.

As you read above, Newport is also well known for its aquarium, which once held the orca made famous in the movie Free Willy.

Is Newport Oregon worth visiting?

YES. Newport, OR is a lovely Oregon Coast town to visit for a day trip from Portland or much, much longer.

I love that just about everyone can find something to love about Newport. The adventurous can charter a deep sea fishing trip. Kids adore the aquarium. And folks who just want to chill out can stroll the many Newport beaches.

Tell me: What would be first on your list of things to do in Newport, Oregon??

PS – Don’t forget to pin this post for an upcoming Oregon Coast vacation!

The post Charming Newport, Oregon: Restaurants, lodging, beaches + attractions appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Recently, Maxine, Edie and I stayed at Cape Lookout campgrounds. We were later joined by one of my closest friends and her daughter. The kids built sand castles, rode scooters around the campground and roasted s’mores at this amazingly family friendly camping spot. We moms were happy to chat and “eat” all the sand cupcakes, sand smoothies and sand sandwiches the kids made us.

This state park, next to Netarts and Tillamook, Oregon, is known for more than its beautiful campgrounds. It’s also the landing site of parasailers! You can watch them zoom in for a landing right over your head on the stretch of beach.

Speaking of beaches, Cape Lookout State Park’s 3 miles of beaches stretch wide, ideal for beach combing and playing with kids. You can go whale watching from the beach or up on the cliffs from Cape Lookout Trail.

If you’re into glamping—or doing shoulder season camping with kids in Oregon—you’ll love the yurts and cabins! Both have electricity and covered porches, which is helpful if the weather turns out to be rainy.

No matter the weather, though, I’m betting you’ll heart Cape Lookout State Park camping. I’m head over heels for the campground, beaches and experience of watching the hang gliders. Get ready to fall in love, too.

Cape Lookout camping

Cape Lookout State Park camping is one of my favorite places to set up a tent (or cozy up in a yurt) on the Oregon Coast. The campgrounds are impeccably maintained and have easy access to the beach.

At just an hour and a half from Portland and 15 minutes south of Tillamook, Cape Lookout State Park is an easy choice for camping. Even though it’s close to the Portland metro area, the campground feels like a world away.

Campgrounds nestle among Western red cedars, Sitka spruce, Douglas firs and salal. Trees grow together, their roots twining around each other—and creating a natural jungle gym for kids. Red-winged blackbirds call to each other; keep an eye out for bald eagles soaring overhead.

The Cape Lookout State Park campground includes 170 tent sites, 38 full-hookup RV sites, 13 yurts and 6 cabins with heat and running water. The campground also includes bathrooms with flush toilets and hot showers. Campsites don’t have ocean views—a human-made dune separates the beach from the campground to protect the sites. You can clearly hear the ocean waves from the campground, though!

The park hosts in Loop C sell firewood for $5 a bundle, as well as ice for $2 per bag.

Group sites are currently closed because of COVID precautions. All other Cape Lookout campground reservations can be made on Reserve America.

My kids are already asking to go back to the Cape Lookout State Park campground!

Cape Lookout yurts

When we recently camped at Cape Lookout, we stayed at one of the pet-friendly yurts. Yurts are located in Loop C, just a short walk from beach access.

Oregon State Park yurts have electric and heat, which makes them perfect for shoulder season camping. (The weather in Oregon’s spring and fall can be hit or miss. Staying cozy inside a yurt while it rains makes everyone comfortable!)

Yurts are outfitted with a small table and chairs, a bunk bed and a futon that folds out into another bed. You can comfortably fit five people inside.

I also noticed that yurts now come with an air purifier. These air purifiers are left running after staff clean the yurt between guests. That said, we always leave the yurt door open while we unpack to get some fresh air inside.

Yurts, like tent sites, each have their own picnic table and fire ring. You can fit two cars in the parking spot, though a second car requires a $7 per night additional fee.

Cape Lookout cabins

Cape Lookout State Park is special for many reasons—including the cabins you can rent to glamp on the Oregon Coast!

Six deluxe Cape Lookout cabins are available to reserve in advance. These cabins fill up incredibly quickly—as you can imagine, there’s quite the demand for only a few cabins. To reserve one, you’ll need to be aware of when state parks open for reservations. (Reserve America typically opens a month of calendar days at a time, six months in advance. So in March, you can reserve through September.)

Cape Lookout cabins are equipped with electricity, heat and hot water. They also include a microwave and small fridge. A bathroom within the cabin includes a flush toilet and shower. Bring your own bedding and supplies such as dishes.

You can sit out on the covered porch if it’s raining, and in good weather eat outdoors at the picnic table. The state park includes only six cabins, which are located separately from yurts and tent sites, so you’ll have a more secluded experience with hardly any neighbors.

You’ll need to walk about 250 feet from the parking area down a gravel path to reach cabins. Three cabins are pet-friendly.

Rates for Cape Lookout cabins are $106 per night. This fee may vary depending on when you reserve and if you are bringing pets.

Cape Lookout beaches

The beaches at Cape Lookout are some of my favorite on the Oregon Coast. The beach runs more than three miles, a flat and beautiful stretch where you can find your perfect spot.

Access the beach at Cape Lookout in a handful of places. The easiest to access is from the day use area. Here, park in the lot (which also has restrooms). Just remember to pay the $5 day use fee—the fees are enforced by state park rangers.

A short hill leads from the parking area down to the beach. (I’m acutely aware of the accessibility of beach access points ever since I broke my foot. This point was not easy for me to navigate in my iWalk/peg leg.)

This is the beach where you can watch paragliders land!

Nearer to the Cape Lookout campground, reach the beach via several short trails. You’ll need to walk up a bit over the dune then back down again to the beach. These access points were easier for me to navigate.

Currently, the road to beach access points at the north end of Cape Lookout State Park is closed. If you’re camping here, though, you can walk or bike along this road. Since it’s less easily accessible, the northern stretch of the beach is much less popular. You’ll probably have the whole beach to yourself!

As with any beach on the Oregon Coast, take safety precautions. Be aware of weather and sea conditions. Never turn your back on the ocean. Watch for sneaker waves.

Cape Lookout Trail

As of this writing, Cape Lookout Trail is damaged due to storm damage. A strong wind storm in late 2020 blew down trees, making this trail unusable. Double-check AllTrails or another user generated hiking guide for up-to-date trail status.

This out-and-back trail winds along the cliffs of Cape Lookout, giving you incredible views across the Pacific Ocean. Cape Lookout Trail has little elevation gain. Instead of focusing on strenuous up-and-down trail conditions, then, you can take in the scenery.

Just under 5 miles, Cape Lookout Trail stretches along the peninsula about 400 feet above the sea. You’ll hike through dense forest with glimpses of the ocean before reaching the viewpoint. Here, take a rest on the bench overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

This hike is one of the best spots on the Oregon Coast to see migrating gray whales, which swim along this point close to the cliffs.

Cape Lookout Trail is often muddy so bring sturdy shoes and, if you have them, hiking poles for stability. People have placed boards and branches over the muddiest spots, but you’ll still need to carefully tiptoe around mucky areas. Keep an eye out for exposed roots.

If you’re hiking with kids, keep them nearby. It’s easy to trip in places. When you get near the lookout at the turnaround point, keep children close. The viewpoint is roped off from the cliff but better safe than sorry.

Another tip if you’re hiking with kids: A B-17 bomber crashed here in 1943. Authorities never accounted for all the wreckage. Tell them the story—they’ll love keeping an eye out for plane parts!

Bring your binoculars, too. On a clear day, you can see south to Cape Kiwanda and Cape Foulweather and north to Cape Meares and Maxwell Point.

Campground nature trail

If you park in the lot next to the registration booth (or walk the short distance from the campground), you’ll find the nature trail. This short, family-friendly trail loops through a flat area in the forest.

Markers signal points of interest. Pick up a brochure from the registration booth or look at a digital version here to learn about the area’s plants and history.

At the very least, check out the nature trail to learn the names of the native trees and other plants (like skunk cabbage!).

Cape Lookout paragliding from Anderson’s Viewpoint

Cape Lookout is famous for its parasailing, paragliding and hang gliding. On days with good wind conditions, you’ll see these adrenaline seekers land on the beach mere feet from you!

From the Anderson’s Viewpoint parking lot, soarers walk a short way up the hill to the launch site. They may spend hours gliding over the coastal cliffs, riding winds and taking in the incredible views.

Cape Lookout is also one of the most dangerous paragliding spots on the Oregon Coast. Only experienced soarers should fly here. If you’re new to paragliding, try this sport with an experienced guide or outfitter.

If you’re more interested in watching paragliders than launching yourself into the air 330 feet above the ocean, Cape Lookout State Park is perfect for you, too! From the day use parking lot, walk onto the beach. You’ll see a cone and wind sock that acts as a landmark for paragliders.

You can watch landings from a safe distance directly next to the cone or farther along the beach in either direction. Please be courteous to anyone who asks you to move for safety.

We were thrilled to see people land. Edie can’t wait to try paragliding for herself! She’s already planning a trip with Hubs; I’ll watch (aka try not to panic) from below, once Edie is old enough to try.

The post Scenic Cape Lookout State Park, Oregon: Camping, beaches, trails, paragliding + more! appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

About halfway between Newport and Depoe Bay/Lincoln City, Beverly Beach stretches like so many miles of heavenly sand. This wide-open area is one of the most pristine spots on the Oregon Coast.

As you’ll read here, Beverly Beach State Park has campgrounds, day use beach access and even… drum roll… oodles of fossils! Let me walk you through all the details to explore and enjoy this amazing Oregon Coast beach.

Gorgeous, wide beaches

Beverly Beach is part of a 5-mile stretch of sand between Depoe Bay and Newport, OR. On a clear day, you can see all the way north to Cape Foulweather and all the way south to Yaquina Head.

This wide, flat beach is a popular destination for both camping and day trips. On a recent day, Maxine, Edie and I spent hours playing on the beach here.

One reason I love this Oregon Coast beach: It’s wide and flat, allowing my kids to run at full speed until even they got out of breath! The beach’s size also made it easy to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining social distance.

Spencer Creek cuts across Beverly Beach. This rocky and chilly creek is one of my kids’ favorite parts of this amazing Oregon Coast beach. They love wading into the water.

If you want a more secluded area of the beach, simply cross Spencer Creek to the north side of the beach. Fewer people go this way—maybe they don’t want to get their feet wet!

Beverly Beach campground

It can be hard to snag a reservation at the Beverly Beach campground, especially in summer, but this amazing spot is worth the effort!

Most sites are wooded, so even though sites are about the standard state park distance from each other, the trees make sites feel more private.

You can expect the usual amenities, such as potable water, flush toilets and showers. Beverly Beach Campground is a great spot for people who want to camp—but don’t want to go super-rugged.

The campground also includes a playground, meeting area, information center and picnic area.

2021 note: Some campground facilities are closed to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Campground playgrounds, information center, meeting hall and picnic shelters are temporarily unavailable.

Beverly Beach yurts

Beverly Beach State Park camping is popular—and this Oregon Coast park is well known for its yurts!

These circular semi-permanent structures are a middle ground between cabins and tent camping. The yurts at Beverly Beach State Park include bunk beds, a futon, heat and electricity. They do not have cooking facilities (bring a propane stove or cook over the open fire!).

We love staying in yurts on the Oregon Coast. For us, yurts extend the camping season because we don’t have to worry as much about crummy weather. When it’s rainy, we just hang out indoors. Then as soon as the weather breaks, we head out to the beach!

Some of the Beverly Beach yurts are animal-friendly. When you reserve yours, pay close attention to which one you get if you’re bringing a four-legged friend. Several yurts are accessible.

Finding fossils at Beverly Beach

Beverly Beach is one of the best places to find fossils along the Oregon Coast. The cliffs that line the beach are made of two different kinds of rock formations: Sandstone from the 15-million-year-old Astoria Foundation, and volcanic ash and mudstone from the 20-million-year-old Nye Foundation.

(Are you geeking out on this geology as much as I am?!)

The exposed seawalls along Beverly Beach make it easy to find fossilized shells and other prehistoric marine life.

Once you spot a fossilized shell, you’ll see many more. It’s as if seeing one opens your eyes to all the other ones! Also look for the impression left from prehistoric shells.

Walk along the seawall slowly, keeping a watch for scalloped shells or clam-like creatures. We saw one fossil almost as big as Edie’s hand!

Also look closely at the rocks on Beverly Beach. You might spot some with fossilized snail shells inside! (Technically, these rock-like things are called concretions, which are hunks formed by minerals and other matter.)

Be aware that you are not allowed to remove fossils from seawalls on the Oregon Coast. Ones on the beach are fair game, though.

If you’re into dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals (like Edie and Max are), try this favorite activity: Bury toy dinosaurs in the sand and then excavate them like archaeologists! Then stop by Prehistoric, an amazing fossil store in Lincoln City, where you can see dinosaur teeth, claws and bones!

Things to do near Beverly Beach, OR

If you’re here for Beverly Beach camping, you might want to explore a bit beyond this area. A few minutes north, you’ll find Devils Punchbowl. (Read my post on hiking into Devils Punchbowl at low tide!)

Drive up Highway 101 a little farther and you’ll hit Lincoln City. This is one of our favorite Oregon Coast towns because of the beautiful beaches, the Siletz Bay (with its resident seal colony) and other offbeat things to do. If you want more info, check out my full guide to Lincoln City.

To the south, you’ll pass Yaquina Head. This stunning area is home to one of the Oregon Coast’s historic lighthouses and unique Cobble Beach. This is also a great spot to watch for whales!

A little farther down Highway 101, explore Newport and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

And if you want to learn allllll the things, click over to my full-out guide to the Oregon Coast. It’s mega-packed with things to do, towns to visit, epic hikes, beautiful beaches and more.

The post Beautiful Beverly Beach State Park + Campground, OR: Oregon Coast gem appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

This out-and-back trail takes you through old growth forest to a wide-open meadow and incredible vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Chitwood Falls.

Hart’s Cove, and this hike, takes you through the UNESCO-designated Cascade Head Biosphere Reserve. This protected area includes habitat for elk, black bear, bald eagles and sea lions, as well as the endangered spotted owl, marbled murrelet, Oregon silverspot butterfly and Coho salmon.

I’m hoping this post and photos give you a little taste of Hart’s Cove, Oregon. I can’t wait for you to experience it for yourself.

Starting out on the trail

Hart’s Cove trail (#1303) starts out in dense woods, dominated by Sitka Spruce and Western Hemlock. This first part of the trail can be dim and even foggy, even if the day is clear just a few miles away.

The first half-mile of this hike switchbacks down the steep and forested hillside. (Remember that this is an out-and-back trail so you’ll have to hike up those switchbacks at the end, too!) The trail can be narrow with very steep drop-offs so watch your footing.

These steep trails are why I don’t recommend this hike for young children.

Cross a sweet little bridge over Cliff Creek: This landmark signals that you’re entering an older part of the forest. The trail also gets less strenuous from this point. As you continue on, listen for sea lions barking.

About 1.5 miles from the trailhead, you’ll reach a wooden bench that overlooks the cove. Even though you’re looking through branches, this is your first real glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. If you’re anything like me, it’ll give you a boost of excitement to reach the prairie at Hart’s Cove!

Final leg of Hart’s Cove Trail

The forest in the last mile of the trail becomes more sparse. Watch to your left for glimpses of Hart’s Cove and the Pacific Ocean.

You may need to scramble over a fallen log or two. Most of the obstacles have been sawed through, so you end up walking through a “doorway” made from massive tree trunks—some even 5 feet across!

About ¾ mile from the Hart’s Cove vista, you’ll need to cross a stream. As of the time of writing this post, the bridge was washed out. The creek is pretty narrow and shallow, so it’s not too hard to cross without getting your feet wet.

Once you cross, you’re about 20 minutes away from the meadow that looks out onto the Pacific Ocean.

Chitwood Falls and Hart’s Cove

When you emerge from the trees, your view opens up to take in the expansive Pacific Ocean. The vibrant blues are just stunning.

A meadow of native grasses stretches to the edge of the cliffs on Cascade Head. This field is habitat to rare plants and animals; in summer, you might see wildflowers, too.

Follow the path down toward the cliff. (When I recently hiked here, this stretch of the trail was actually the most slippery section, so be careful!) You’ll see spurs branching off to the east and west for different vantage points.

Each view is gorgeous. You’ll look down into Hart’s Cove, where waves crash onto the rocks. Some days, the water here is a brilliant turquoise color.

Look inside the U of the cove to spot Chitwood Falls, which plunges into the Pacific Ocean. It’s quite far away from the headland so you may want to bring binoculars to get a better view.

Safety note: Please, please be incredibly careful as you explore. There are no fences on the headland, so if you go too far while trying to get a better view or the perfect shot, you could slip. There’s nothing to stop you from going over the cliff. Yikes!

To return to the trailhead, just head back the way you came. Make sure to safeguard a little energy in your tank for the steep uphill switchbacks at the very end!

When to hike Hart’s Cove, Oregon

Hart’s Cove is closed from January 1 through July 15 to keep important habitat undisturbed. That leaves nearly 6 months to enjoy this amazing hike near Lincoln City, Oregon!

So when should you go? The totally unsatisfying answer: There’s something to love about this Oregon Coast hike all of the time. But here I share what makes each season special.

Hiking Hart’s Cove in the summer

Look for wildflowers in the meadow, including lupine, cow parsnip and yarrow. The prairie grasses grow uninterrupted for the first half of the year, since there are no hikers allowed to keep them shorter! (That’s a good thing, since many of the native grasses and flowers here provide important habitat and food for threatened species.)

So if you hike Hart’s Cove in July or August, expect to walk through tall, dense grasses. I recommend wearing long pants or leggings, even if it’s hot.

Hiking Hart’s Cove in the fall

The forest on Cascade Head is primarily evergreen—you’ll see spruce, hemlock and of course oodles of ferns—so you won’t see dramatic fall colors here. Still, autumn can be a wonderful time to do this hike near Lincoln City.

Fall in Oregon can bring surprisingly clear and warm days. That’s a good combination with the post-summer, lighter traffic on Hart’s Cove Trail. In the fall, you might also spot fishing boats in and around the cove.

Hiking Hart’s Cove in the winter

Anyone who has spent any time on the Oregon Coast knows that this area gets a lot of rain in the winter. I don’t recommend hiking Hart’s Cove in the rain. The rain not only makes the trail slippery; you may not even see the cove and Chitwood Falls through the clouds and mist.

That said, this popular hike is much less trafficked during the winter. When I hiked here on a recent December day, I saw maybe a half-dozen people.

Note that in the winter, the sun sets here as early as 4:30 pm. Make sure you leave yourself enough time to hike while the sun is still up.

Getting there

The road to Hart’s Cove Trail is not well marked, and cell service is spotty. So instead of relying on an app to get you there, grab the printer-friendly directions at the bottom of this post.

In sum: From Highway 101, look for Forest Service Road 1861, an unmarked road on the west side of the highway between mileposts 101 and 102. Look for a wide gravel area and a metal gate. If you see that then you’re in the right spot!

If you miss the road going north, you’ll find a gravel shoulder about a ¼ mile up Highway 101 where you can safely turn around.

Then follow the gravel road for four miles. It’s fairly well maintained with only minimal potholes and washboarding. About halfway to the trailhead, the road splits but keep to the left. (There’s a small sign that directs you that way but you have to squint to see it.)

It’ll take you 10-15 minutes to drive the gravel road to the parking lot at Hart’s Cove Trailhead.

This beautiful Oregon Coast hike is 11 miles north of Lincoln City and about 5 miles south of Neskowin, OR.

Are you excited to hike Hart’s Cove Trail? Find a nearby hotel to start planning your trip! (affiliate link)

Must-know details to hike to Chitwood Falls and Hart’s Cove

First and foremost: This hike is closed from January 1 through July 15. The closure protects sensitive species such as rare butterflies, brown pelicans and bald eagles.

Dogs are allowed on-leash.

This hike does not have beach access.

Hart’s Cove Trail is often muddy. Wear sturdy shoes and bring hiking poles if you’re able. They really help steady you going over slippery ground! (I use adjustable hiking poles like these ones affiliate link)

As with every outdoor activity in the Pacific Northwest, dress in layers. When I recently did this Oregon Coast hike, I started out in a fleece, vest, hat and gloves. By the time I arrived at the meadow, I was hot in my t-shirt!

Hart’s Cove Trail is narrow in many parts. It’s impossible to maintain a 6-foot distance when passing others. Please wear a mask or gaiter properly when near anyone else. Do your best to leave as much space as you can between yourself and other hikers. (I prefer wearing a gaiter when hiking because it’s easier to pull up and down rather than mess with ear straps. I like these gaiters—they can even double as headbands! affiliate link)

There is no restroom at this trailhead.

You will likely have no cell or data service on this hike.

So what do you say? Are you now itching to visit this Oregon Coast hike and see the stunning Chitwood Falls? Is the Hart’s Cove Trail now on your Oregon bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

Finally, don’t forget that I’m sharing detailed directions below. These directions are printer-friendly—important since you won’t have service once you drive up the forest road!

Directions to Harts Cove Trailhead, Oregon

Print

Looking for one of the best Oregon Coast hikes around? Hart's Cove Trail is famous for its views. But there's no cell service there, and some map apps don't include directions to Hart's Cove Trailhead. Here's how to get there.

Instructions

1. On Highway 101, drive north from Lincoln City and the junction with Highway 18. (If you're coming the opposite direction, drive south of Neskowin.)
2. Turn west onto Forest Service Road 1861. This is an unmarked road on the west side of Highway 101 between mileposts 101 and 102. You'll know you're in the right place by the wide gravel lot and metal gate.
3. Drive up the gravel forest road 4 miles. Keep left where the road branches about 2 miles up.
4. The road dead-ends at the Hart's Cove Trailhead. Park here to start your hike.
5. Note: Please drive carefully along the forest road. The road is narrow and you'll need to pass other cars very carefully.

Notes

Hart's Cove Trailhead is open July 16 - December 31. The forest road gate is closed and locked the rest of the year to protect sensitive habitat for threatened species.

Recommended Products

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• 
  Compact budget binoculars to watch for migrating whales
• 
  Adjustable hiking poles help on the slippery, steep trail
• 
  Gaiter to wear while passing hikers on the narrow trail

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Oregon trails are known for their beauty, but not many have a dramatic suspension bridge hanging above a river! Add in a waterfall and you have an unforgettable hike.

The next time you’re near the Oregon Coast and Lincoln City, make a short detour to the Drift Creek Falls trail. You won’t be disappointed.

Drift Creek Falls trail

Not too long ago, a group of girlfriends and I hiked Drift Creek Falls together. We may or may not have drunk too much champagne the night before, so fresh air and some exercise was just what we needed.

What else we needed, apparently: A good laugh at how yours truly nearly peed her leggings while walking across a suspension bridge swaying 100 feet over a narrow canyon below.

The Drift Creek Falls trail runs just under 3 miles round-trip. It’s an out-and-back trail with less than 500 feet elevation gain. So aside from a few gradual ups and downs, it’s overall a flat and easy hike.

Most of the dirt trail is well graded. That said, you’ll want to keep an eye out for roots sticking up through the ground. Don’t twist an ankle!

The Drift Creek Falls trail crosses a burbling creek. If it looks like too small a stream to result in a dramatic waterfall, that’s because it is! Several creeks and underwater streams combine to cascade over the 75-foot-high waterfall.

Drift Creek Falls suspension bridge

Only a few dozen suspension bridges exist in Oregon, and Drift Creek Falls is one of the most easily accessible. That doesn’t mean it’s less than spectacular!

The Drift Creek Falls suspension bridge runs 240 feet above a river 100 feet below. It looks sturdy, and it is: The bridge can hold 165,000 pounds—that’d be about 12 T Rexes. (Though OMG if you’re on the bridge with 12 ferocious dinosaurs best of luck to you.)

The suspension bridge is sturdy—and it sways. The movement as you walk across the bridge is actually part of its structural design, allowing it to stay standing even in the wind or if a group of hikers with a death wish stomp across behind you.

As you cross the bridge walking in the direction away from the trailhead, you’ll see the waterfall to your right.

Once you’re on the other side, hike down toward the creek. You’ll catch a better view of the falls down there.

Oregon Coastal Range forest

The Oregon Coast Range is covered in dense forest. These pristine areas are full of ferns, Doug firs, cedar, wildflowers and so much more.

Keep an eye out for seedlings growing on fallen logs. The forest district leaves old, fallen timber in the forest (only cutting off sections that block the trail). That’s because mosses, ferns, fungi and even new trees use these “nurse logs” for habitat.

They grow on the fallen logs, since they end up growing a bit higher up than the plants on the forest floor. That means more sunlight and less competition.

You also might notice that the forests along the Oregon Coast don’t fluctuate much in temperature. That’s partly because the trees grow close together, creating an insulating bubble for the ground below. The branches almost weave together—and may even make a bit of an umbrella if it rains!

As you walk along the Drift Creek Falls trail, you’ll pass old growth trees as well as newer growth. Old and new combine for a healthy ecosystem, making habitat for birds, salamanders, deer and elk. Even bear and cougar call these forests home, though they steer clear of well trafficked trails like Drift Creek Falls in Oregon.

Details to hike Drift Creek Falls, Oregon

Drift Creek Falls is about 40 minutes inland from Lincoln City, OR. You can google directions to the Drift Creek Falls trailhead, which is trail 1378. I recommend downloading the map in case you lose service in the hills. 

Much of the road to the Drift Creek Falls trailhead is windy and narrow. If you get car sick, make sure to take car sickness prevention medication before your drive. It doesn’t really work if you take it once you’re already queasy.

This popular trail gets quite busy, especially on weekends and during the summer. To avoid crowds, go as close to sunup as you can, or hike on a weekday.

There is a toilet at the Drift Creek Falls trailhead, but I’d only use it if the need were dire. Take care of biology business before you arrive.

Some parts of the trail are narrow. Step aside the best you can when you pass others on the trail. Maintain social distance so everyone can safely enjoy the outdoors, and keep a mask on-hand for when you can’t stay more than 6 feet away from others.

Safety note: The trail itself is easy to moderate. It’s not strenuous, and it doesn’t climb a lot of altitude. That said, I’m still not comfortable taking my young kids on this hike near Lincoln City.

That might be because of my extreme and almost-paralyzing fear of heights. But I just don’t trust my young kiddos, who are 5 and 7, to stay safe near the suspension bridge.

This hike is excellent for older kids and parents who wear their littles in a hiking backpack or baby carrier. But personally, I don’t recommend bringing kids younger than about 9 or 10.

If you’re able, though, don’t miss this stunning Oregon Coast hike. It’s a short 40-minute drive from nearby Lincoln City and 100% worth a stop.

If you’re in the area, don’t miss my thorough post on the best things to do in Lincoln City, OR!

The post Hike Drift Creek Falls: Oregon Coast trail with suspension bridge! appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Devils Punchbowl naturally formed in the rock beside the Pacific Ocean. The cavern’s ceiling collapsed ages ago, leaving this breathtaking site open to the sky. You feel as if you’re walking into an enormous bowl when you explore inside.

Most visitors see this formation only from the top. The Devils Punchbowl Natural Area includes an easy-to-access viewpoint where you can watch waves crashing into the open-air cavern. Fewer people, though, time their visit to hike into Devils Punchbowl. In fact, not many people realize it’s even possible!

Consider yourself in the know. Below, I share how to hike into Devils Punchbowl, how to get there and what you’ll find.

How to get to Devils Punchbowl Natural Area + hike

Devils Punchbowl Natural Area is located on a piece of land that juts into the Pacific Ocean. The natural area lies between Depoe Bay and Newport. (It’s also a ten-minute drive from the famous Yaquina Head Lighthouse.) What’s more, Devils Punchbowl is a terrific stop if you’re on an Oregon Coast road trip along Highway 101.

To get there, turn off Highway 101 onto Otter Crest Loop. The road is well marked—look for a sign that announces Devils Punchbowl and the Inn at Otter Crest.

Follow the road to the end of 1st Street, where there’s plenty of parking and a public restroom. Most people just head to the viewpoint overlooking Devils Punchbowl. But here’s how to get to the hike.

From the parking area, walk north on C Avenue. Halfway between 3rd St. and the dead end. you’ll see a path on your left (marked by a star on the map above). Simply follow the path to the beach.

You’ll have to climb a bit to get to the beach from the path, as the tides have thwarted attempts to maintain the end of the trail. That means this beach access point is difficult for people with mobility limitations, and it’s not stroller-friendly.

Walking Otter Crest Beach

Otter Crest Beach stretches between the cliffs at Otter Crest to the north and Devils Punchbowl to the south.

This isn’t a long stretch of beach but it is diverse. At low tide. you can walk along the flat sand alongside tall cliffs. And low tide reveals shelves of rock you can (carefully) explore.

Tide pools here shelter critters most people see only in aquariums (like the nearby Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport). Look for sea anemones, sea stars, barnacles, limpets, little fish and crabs.

Level 10 travel tip: The best way to see wildlife in a tide pool is to wait patiently. Stay still and you’ll see a bump you thought was just sand reveal itself as a fish, or watch as a crab wanders around looking for a snack.

The rocks here are covered in seaweed, which makes footing slippery in places. Be extremely careful and help little ones maneuver the rocks.

Hike to Devils Punchbowl

From the beach access trail, turn left to walk south along Otter Crest Beach. I call this a hike, but it’s more of a quarter-mile stroll. You’ll need to clamber over rocks and carefully step your way toward the entrance to the Devils Punchbowl cave.

As you walk, watch for smaller caves and hidey holes in the cliff. Kids love exploring these naturally occurring caves! They also make terrific photo spots.

A two-story arch marks the entrance to the cave of Devils Punchbowl. (Look in the horizontal cracks at about knee level to spy crabs and sea stars here!)

Exploring inside Devils Punchbowl, Oregon

Low tide reveals hundreds of rocks and boulders on the floor of Devils Punchbowl. A second archway leads to the ocean, where waves crash even during calm seas. The most dramatic feature of Devils Punchbowl, though, is the overhead opening.

Carefully climb over rocks to explore this enormous, hollow rock formation. The opening at the top is narrower than the base of the bowl, so it feels as if you’re gazing up out of a crater.

Geologists suspect that this was once a cave open only to the ocean, not from above. The roof of the cave likely collapsed years and years ago, leaving the bowl formation behind. Since then, waves continue to shape the cave little by little.

Devils Punchbowl is made of both basalt and sandstone. Basalt, a hard, volcanic rock, erodes much more slowly than sandstone. So over the years, the tide and the elements wore down the sandstone more quickly than the basalt. That’s why grotto-like undercuts ring the base of Devils Punchbowl.

The force of waves also moves rocks and debris around in the cave so it’s different every time you visit. On our most recent trip, we found a jaw bone! At first we thought it might be from a sea lion, but texting with a marine biologist friend revealed we were way off. Turns out it was the jaw bone of a deer.

While you’re inside Devils Punchbowl, look through the second, smaller arch that leads to the ocean. You’ll see waves crash on the rocks surrounding the cave. Water rushes a little way into the cave, too, which gives you an inkling of what happens as the tide rises.

When I recently visited, we spent about a half-hour inside the cavern. That’s plenty of time to explore the area.

Must-know details of Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area

Remember that hiking into Devils Punchbowl is only safe at low tide. Always keep an eye on the tide, time and waves. If the water rose when you weren’t paying attention, you’d be stuck inside the punchbowl and drown.

**Link to low tide times for Devils Punchbowl**

If you hike inside Devils Punchbowl, wear sturdy shoes. Flip flops will slide off your feed and you’re likely to twist an ankle.

This area is public and free; there is no access fee.

Cliffside Coffee & Sweets and the Flying Dutchman Winery are right next to several of the parking areas. As of the time of publication, these spots are open for to-go orders only. Picnic tables overlooking the Pacific make terrific lunch spots!

So tell me: After reading this, are you as excited to check out this unique thing to do on the Oregon Coast as I am? Keep your eye on the tide chart and plan your visit now!

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Located less than two hours from Portland, OR, Lincoln City is an easily accessible beach town close to the city. Lincoln City is one of our favorite stops on the Oregon Coast. Highway 101 runs all along the coastline. Lincoln City is about halfway between Newport and Tillamook, OR—an ideal stop on an Oregon Coast road trip!

Read on for all the best things to do in Lincoln City, OR. From hiking and agate beaches to kite festivals and lighthouses, you’ll never face a dull moment in this Oregon Coast town.

This post contains affiliate links. By clicking and buying, I earn a small commission so I can continue to bring you free travel content. This does not affect prices for you!

Quick note: Make sure to get a copy of my book, Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids, before your Oregon Coast road trip! It includes instructions for 33 super-fun games good for littles and grown-ups, plus free activity printables. Click the image below to get your copy!

Visit the beach (of course!)

It should go without saying that one of the best things to do in Lincoln City, OR is to visit the beach. The beaches on the Oregon Coast are gorgeous, even in rainy weather. Do like a local and don’t let a little wet stop you from exploring the beaches!

Fun fact: Did you know Lincoln City has the longest stretch of beach among all Oregon Coast cities?

These are a few of the best beaches in Lincoln City.

South Beach

We typically access this stretch of the beach in Lincoln City via 51st Street. Plenty of parking and public restrooms make this a convenient spot to hit the beach.

We also like walking west, past Mo’s and along the mouth of the Siletz River. It’s fun to wander beneath the pier. The water of the Siletz is shallow here (and a bit warmer than the Pacific).

Finally, you can borrow (for free) a beach wheelchair from the Looking Glass Inn.

D River Beach Access

This stretch of beach is probably Lincoln City’s most famous coastline. The wide, flat beach seems to stretch forever.

Kids love to play in the D River here, too. Just watch out for seagulls: These birds know that the beach gets a lot of visitors, so keep an eye on your picnic supplies!

The D River State Recreation Site also has public restrooms.

Road’s End State Park: North Beach

This stretch of beach in Lincoln City also has huge rocks exposed at low tide. You know what that means: tide pools!

The thing that makes this part of the beach unusual is that cars can drive onto the sand in a designated area. A paved ramp on NW 15th St leads down to the beach, where you can park to watch the sunset or set up for a day of play.

Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area

I love the beach at Fogarty Creek, a few minutes south of Lincoln City. As the name suggests, a creek runs through this beach. You can access both sides of the beach (without getting your feet wet!) by following either path from the parking lot.

You’ll also want to keep an eye out for agates. Fogarty Creek is a terrific agate beach near Lincoln City.

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Hike and bird watch in Siletz Bay

On the south end of Lincoln City, the Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to songbirds, waterfowl, newts and hundreds of other species. Coho and Chinook salmon also make their way from the ocean upriver to their spawning grounds via the Siletz River, making this area critical to preserving these at-risk fish.

Wildlife are best seen in the morning and evening, but you’re likely to see animals anytime. What’s more, the type of animals you see will vary by season as well as the tide, so you might see different creatures each time you visit.

Walk the half-mile nature trail, bring your binoculars for bird watching or paddle the Siletz River by canoe, kayak or paddle board. Just know that dogs are not allowed in the wildlife refuge.

Explore Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Cobble Beach

Just a half-hour south of Lincoln City, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse stands watch over the dramatic cliffs of the Oregon Coast. Oregon’s oldest lighthouse also overlooks seabird nesting grounds and a resting spot for local sea lions.

One of my favorite things to do at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse is to explore Cobble Beach at low tide. This unique beach isn’t made of sand but rather round volcanic rocks. And when the tide is out, you can check out the many creatures that live in the tide pools here.

For more details, read my guide to visiting Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

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Explore the cave in Devils Punchbowl

Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area is a dramatic and beyond cool stop on the Oregon Coast. Over centuries, the relentless waves carved a cave into the cliffside here. Then the roof of the cave collapsed, leaving a hollow rock formation shaped like, you guessed it, a bowl.

Incoming waves churn and bubble in the punchbowl during high tide. At low tide, you can hike into the cave and explore the tide pools on the north end of the park. This is an easy, kid-friendly walk that starts on a steep path then continues along the beach. Just make sure to keep an eye on the tide tables. You don’t want to get caught by the incoming tide.

Devils Punchbowl is also a popular spot for whale watching. You might be able to snag a picnic table for an open-air lunch, but know this is a busy site.

Curious! Click for all the details to visit Devils Punchbowl!

Find a float in a beach-wide treasure hunt

Year-round, locals hide handmade glass floats along the seven miles of coastline in Lincoln City. They tuck these gorgeous floats behind driftwood, under seaweed and in the sand above the high tide mark. And while the city used to hide these floats one weekend a year during a festival, glass blown floats are now hidden on the beach year-round through the Finders Keepers initiative!

You never know when you might find one. Local artists donate 3,000 floats every year—that’s nearly 10 a day—so it might just pay off to keep an eye out for a beautiful glass orb! And if you do find one, register it on the Finders Keepers float web site. You’ll get information about the artist who created the float.

Note: Float Fairies, aka the people who hide the glass floats in Lincoln City, have temporarily stopped the program during COVID-19. Check the organization’s web site for details on reopening.

Walk among flowers at the Connie Hansen Garden

I’ve been visiting Lincoln City, OR my entire life—and only discovered the Connie Hansen Garden this year!

This hidden gem on the Oregon Coast is tucked away on a residential street. Pretty much only locals know about it, which makes this garden a restful spot year-round.

Botanist Connie Hansen turned this land from a swamp into a beautifully curated garden. She grew her favorite flower, the iris, along with rhododendrons, azaleas, primroses and more. Then, when she passed away, her family turned the estate into a Lincoln City park.

Stroll along the winding paths and over adorable footbridges, pause at the ponds and listen to songbirds. The Connie Hansen Garden is now one of my favorite things to do in Lincoln City.

Ready to start planning your trip to Lincoln City? Find a place to stay!

Find fossils at Prehistoric Oregon

Prehistoric Oregon is one of the many shops along Highway 101 in Lincoln City. Stop by to browse the gifts, and don’t miss taking a look at the many fossils in this shop!

Depending on the day’s stock, you might see a megalodon tooth, a cave bear skull, trilobites or a spinosaurus claw. The shop also sells jewelry, rocks, gems and minerals.

Browse books at Robert’s Bookshop

I love independent book stores and my kids, both voracious readers, have inherited my obsession. That’s just the first reason why we love Robert’s Bookshop in Lincoln City, Oregon.

Yes, the narrow aisles between packed bookshelves are perfect to get lost in. But the most unique thing about this Oregon Coast book store is the plane that sticks out of the wall!

Yep, you read that right. The quirky owner of Robert’s Bookshop bought an old plane and installed it in the wall. It looks as if the plane is crashing through the side of the building. In reality, the owner uses it as an office.

Make sure to stop at this unique book store, along Highway 101, the next time you stay in Lincoln City.

Find antique treasures

Like many towns on the Oregon Coast, Lincoln City hosts dozens of antique stores. Vintage clothes, collectibles, antique furniture, first editions and more—these densely packed shops hold just about every treasure you can think of (plus many more you never knew you wanted!).

I like the Streetcar Village, on the south end of Lincoln City, OR, in part because each of the shops is housed in old streetcars. (My kids think it’s so cool.) Or check out the Little Antique Mall, which isn’t little at all. With roughly 80 vendors, this spot is the largest antique mall on the Oregon Coast.

These shops are also locally owned, so your money stays in this coastal community.

Watch artists blow glass

I’ve never been able to figure out exactly why, but the Oregon Coast is glassblowing central. Shops up and down Highway 101 sell art, ornaments and orbs handcrafted by local artists. Check out the blown glass galleries (carefully!) or watch artists in action at the Lincoln City Glass Center. You can see glassblowers turn hard hunks of colored glass into a vase or float by turning their work in piping-hot kilns. Keep an eye out for other blown glass galleries, too.

The Lincoln City Glass Center also offers classes and workshops on glassblowing if you want to try your own hand at the ancient craft.

Dive into the past at the Northern Lincoln County Historical Museum

The Northern Lincoln County Historical Museum is a volunteer-run site that shares this area’s history. Learn about how logging shaped this region and how fishing still fuels the economy.

Our favorite part, unsurprisingly, was the terrific kids’ area. On the second floor, a big room includes dress-up clothes, coloring pages, books, games and a forest’s worth of hand puppets. Maxine didn’t want to leave!

Downstairs, check out gigantic sea floats and artwork from the area’s Native American tribes.

The historical museum in Lincoln City’s admission is free/by donation, so you have nothing to lose by stopping by. You’ll definitely learn something.

Check out the murals in Lincoln City

We love stopping for a picture in front of the Oregon mural in Lincoln City. They paint the current year, so we can keep track of our many visits to Lincoln City—and how much our kids grow!

The Oregon mural in Lincoln City is located on the wall of the Lincoln City Collective, a local shop selling t-shirts, hats and more. A public parking lot is directly next to the shop. This mural is also directly across the street from the Northern Lincoln County Historical Museum.

We also stop at the To the Beach mural in Lincoln City. This mural is located on the corner of Highway 101 and SW 51st St. This is where you turn to go to Mo’s Clam Chowder.

Finally, stop at the awesome crab mural next to the D River Wayside Park. The street art is on the wall of Pier 101, a seafood restaurant off Highway 101.

Fly a kite

Throughout much of the year, steady winds make Lincoln City, OR an ideal spot to fly a kite. Pick any of the town’s many beaches, unspool a bit of string and let your kite soar!

Lincoln City is full of shops that sell kites, if you don’t have your own.

Finally, the Lincoln City Kite Festival brings hundreds of enthusiasts to the beaches in the summer and fall. These aren’t only your usual diamond-shaped kites, though. At the festivals, they come in all different shapes (whales, squids, giant teddy bears) and sizes (big, bigger, biggest!). Fun activities, from a kid’s parade to expert performances, make the festivals all-day activities.

Hike across a suspension bridge

If you’re not afraid of heights (or are willing to muscle up, buttercup), don’t miss Drift Creek Falls. This easy 3-mile hike takes you across a 100-foot-high suspension bridge. Looking down is optional!

This Oregon Coast hike is just a 40-minute drive from Lincoln City. Want more? Read my full post on the Drift Creek Falls trail.

Play in Siletz Bay

Do like the local wildlife and play where the Siletz River stretches to the Pacific Ocean. Siletz Bay’s northern side includes a wide stretch of sand at low tide (though it’s largely underwater at high tide). 

You’ll recognize it from the very determined tree growing on a tiny island in the bay. 

Walk toward the ocean to explore under the docks and get close to the resident seal colony. Or climb over the driftwood closer to Highway 101. Either way, you’ll have plenty to explore in this unique thing to do in Lincoln City!

Bike on the beach

Have you ever heard of a fat tire bike? These specially designed bicycles have extra-wide tires to grip the sand so you can cycle up and down the beach.

Sounds fun, right?!

You can rent fat tire bikes at a handful of spots in Lincoln City. Check out fat tire bike rentals here.

So many things to do in Lincoln City

With all these things to do in Lincoln City—and more—it’s no wonder that my family continues to return to this Oregon Coast town again and again. We visit as often as we’re able, and we still haven’t explored all the attractions here.

If you’re as excited about Lincoln City, OR as I am, check out the hotels in the area so you can visit ASAP!

I’m excited to continue to update this guide of things to do in Lincoln City as we discover more beaches, hikes, gardens, parks and more!

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The Yaquina Head Lighthouse is one of Oregon’s many historic lighthouses. At t 93 feet tall, it’s the states tallest and has been guiding ships away from the rocks at Yaquina Head for nearly 150 years. The lighthouse is within the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. (Yes, we made many bad jokes about the park being outstanding. How could we resist that softball?)

Visiting Yaquina Head Lighthouse with kids was easy peasy. The paths are paved and mostly gradually sloping, allowing for easy walking for little legs. And the barriers between the paths and the park’s vegetation were plentiful so I didn’t worry as much about kids slipping through fences.

Visiting the Yaquina Head Lighthouse

The Yaquina Head Lighthouse is iconic—you’ve likely seen it on postcards or book covers before. (And if you haven’t, you may have seen it in the horror movie The Ring!) Plenty of people come with their DSLRs and tripods to capture their own shots of the lighthouse.

Edie was very disappointed we didn’t get to go inside the lighthouse—you need to reserve tour tickets ahead of time. (That makes sense since it this Oregon lighthouse stills operates.) Luckily, there’s plenty of other things to do at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

For instance, you’ll want to watch the bajillions of birds resting on the rocks around Yaquina Head. Tens of thousands of seabirds nest in the rocks, and you can hear them before you spy them. It’s a good idea to bring your own binoculars, as there was only one working spotter when we visited, and it costs 50 cents to view.

The rocks around Yaquina Head are home to cormorants, gulls, guillemots and oystercatchers. What’s more, this is one of the West Coast’s largest nesting spots of the Common Murre.

We also kept an eye out for harbor seals, which swim and fish in the waters there year-round. And sea lions rested on the beach just below the lighthouse.

Whale watching at Yaquina Lighthouse

Another time we visited, we watched a whale that came to Yaquina Head to feed. It swam back and forth mere feet from where we stood on Cobble Beach. A park ranger explained that the whale swam on its side, using one fin to stir up shrimp clinging to kelp, then feasted. We must have watched the whale for more than a half-hour—it was magnificent.

Hubs and I still talk about that whale sighting. I’m pretty sure we’ll still be remembering the whale’s performance when we’re old, wrinkled and toothless.

You might get lucky and spot a whale, too. Gray whales live in the area June through October, and this part of the Pacific Ocean is like a whale highway during migration seasons (December and January, then March and April).

Tidepools at Yaquina Head

A short walk from the parking lot at the Yaquina lighthouse, steps lead down to Cobble Beach. (If that small parking lot is full, park at the lot at the visitor center. You can walk a paved path to the Cobble Beach access from there.)

Level 10 travel tip: You’ll also want to make sure the entire family is wearing sturdy shoes; flip flops will slide off your feet and don’t make for easy exploration on the tide pools.

Cobble Beach, also known as laughing beach because of the sound the smooth volcanic basalt rocks make when waves push them against one another, lies just below the cliffs where the lighthouse stands. And although the round rocks here are unique, the tide pools are the real draw.

Low tide reveals a whole beach of tide pools. These bowl-like indentations in the rocks stay full of water when the tide is out, so the animals that make them their home are still active and visible.

Watch for sea stars, sea urchins, sea anemones, crabs, little fish and other critters.

Level 10 travel tip: Stay still and watch the same tide pool for longer than you think you need to. The longer you watch, the more you’ll see, as your eyes adjust to the subtle movements of sea creatures.

Maxine and Edie love scrambling across the rocks, searching for particularly large sea stars. And we pause often to gently touch the animals. When you put your finger on the tentacles of a sea anemone, the sticky ends hold on to your skin. If you carefully put your finger between the spines of a sea urchin, the spines close around your finger—giving you an urchin hug!

Part of the beach may be closed because sea lions are resting there. People are not allowed near them to keep humans and sea lions safe.

Even if you come to the Yaquina Head Lighthouse at high tide, definitely visit Cobble Beach. It’s equally gorgeous in a totally different way. Know, though, that you’re not allowed to take any rocks or driftwood, since this is a protected area.

Always remember: The sea can change without any advance notice. Keep an eye on the ocean and never turn your back on the waves.

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Yaquina Head Interpretive Center

“I want to come here every day!” Edie said when we first went inside the Yaquina Head Interpretive Center. The girls had a blast checking out the historical replicas, showing me the animal statues they discovered and pushing buttons to make animal noises. The center does a great job of making education kid-friendly, as little ones have plenty to touch.

In the main lobby, the girls played with period toys such as a ball-in-cup game. They also played dress-up in old clothes, and they colored—you just have to ask the front desk for coloring pages and crayons.

Once we were done inside, we stepped out the back door and walked a very short ways to a viewing area. We watched people below surf and stand-up paddle board in the waves. The kids thought walking below cars in the tunnel was super cool.

There are also picnic tables outside the interpretive center, which are sheltered from the wind by a tall cliff. Just be careful to not let the park’s many birds steal your sandwich!

Yaquina Head Lighthouse: Details

Directions: The Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is about 5 minutes north of Newport on Highway 101 and about 20 minutes south of Lincoln City. Don’t confuse it with the much less impressive Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, which is at the opposite end of Newport (near the bridge and the aquarium).

Hours of operation: The hours vary seasonally, but the area is usually open 8am to sunset. The Yaquina Head Interpretive Center is open 10am – 4pm.

Features: Hiking, bird watching, tide pools, interpretive center

Good for: Families, toddlers, strollers; dogs on leash are allowed in some areas

Must-know: Yaquina Head was originally called Cape Foulweather, so let that be a signal to bring layers: The wind can get cold, and you don’t want to freeze while you whale watch or investigate tide pools. Ranger-led tours don’t run consistently, so check the web site before you go to find out if the (free) tours are running while you visit. Kids must be 5 years or older to go on a tour.

Getting in: Entry for passenger cars is $7, and you can use the pass for three days. You can park in multiple places, including by the interpretive center, alongside the lighthouse and at various viewpoints.

What’s your favorite family friendly activity in Newport, OR or on the Central Oregon Coast?

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Nearly every day in the weeks leading up to our overnight sleepover at the aquarium in Newport, she’d ask me how many sleeps until we got to do our behind the scenes stay. Our excitement built until earlier this summer, when we drove to Newport for our aquarium sleepover.

Edie was beyond thrilled with her birthday gift. Before our overnight sleepover was even finished, she asked me, “Can we do this every week?”

We won’t be sleeping with the fishes at the Oregon Coast Aquarium every week, though I will continue to say “sleep with the fishes” until someone makes me stop.

And speaking of things I can’t stop talking about: I gush about our Oregon Coast Aquarium sleepover to anyone who will listen, so it’s past time I wrote about it here! Below, you’ll find our Newport aquarium sleepover review, what’s included in the overnight stay, logistics for the overnight sleepover, tips to make the aquarium sleepover go smoothly, and my bottom line takeaway.

If you’ve ever gone to an aquarium and wondered what happens after the crowds leave, you’ll definitely want to read on.

Oregon Coast Aquarium sleepover review

Newport aquarium sleepover: What to expect on Day 1

Edie and I arrived at the Oregon Coast Aquarium just before 6pm, when the aquarium closes. We saw the final stragglers leaving the aquarium—just as we were getting ready to explore it!

We met up with the rest of the group staying overnight in the aquarium classroom, south of the main entrance. We were 24 adults and kids, plus three aquarium staff. The room felt all buzzy, as if we were waiting for a celebrity to join us. #FishFanGirl

After a quick orientation talk that went over our schedule and the safety rules, we took our overnight gear to the Passages of the Deep. This is my favorite area in the Oregon Coast Aquarium, where you walk along a tunnel surrounded by tanks where fish, rays, eels and sharks swim freely.

After dropping off our things, we went to the aquarium café for dinner, which included pizza, salad and orange slices.. Edie and I had already eaten so we played in the lobby, where a pretend submarine stands. I pretended to be a hungry shark and Edie was a mermaid, naturally; I think the other parents thought I was somewhat nuts.

They’re not that far off.

After dinner, we got to what we were all there for: exploring the aquarium after-hours! The 24 of us had the entire Oregon Coast Aquarium to ourselves. Edie and I spent most of our time by the Touch Pool, where you can touch urchins, starfish, sea cucumbers, anemones and more sea creatures. Edie and the other kids (as well as the adults) giggled in delight as the urchins and anemones “hugged” their fingers with their spines and tentacles. I couldn’t stop laughing when an abalone thought my finger was dinner: The critter pulled my finger halfway into its shiny shell before I was able to (gently) wiggle my hand free.

The aquarium staff also brought out interactive scavenger hunt games to play in the aquarium. (Personally, I prefer my own aquarium scavenger hunt, which is more accessible to pre-readers and kids just learning to read.) Edie soon lost interest in it, leaving us free to explore the exhibits without an agenda.

I’m thrilled that we didn’t spend all our time trying to match the scavenger hunt clues to animals in the tanks because that meant more time for the aquarium’s new exhibit, Seapunk. This addition to the aquarium, which opened May 2019, had Edie flitting from one spot to the next. She was so excited by the strange, industrial, curiosity-sparking features that I could hardly keep track of her as she explored on fast forward!

After about an hour of hanging out in the aquarium, the staff rounded us up to return to the Passages of the Deep. It was time to get ready to sleep with the fishes!

(There I go again. Nope, I’m not over it yet.)

Before we set up for the sleepover, an aquarium security guard led us through a safety routine. The fire marshal requires it so overnight visitors know what to do in case of emergency.

Finally, it was time to get ready for bed. We picked up our sleepover gear and chose which of the three tanks to sleep in—Orford Reef, Halibut Flats or Open Sea. Edie and I picked Orford Reef instead of the shark-filled Open Sea for a few reasons: We wanted to be in the tank where the fish constantly hung out where we could see them, and also there were a few girls who said they were going to have a midnight dance party. Edie and I were both too tired to even entertain the possibility of late-night shenanigans.

Everyone laid out their sleeping bags, changed into pajamas in the bathrooms and set up for bed. Edie was exhausted—by this time, it was after 10pm and way past her usual bedtime. We whispered, smiling at each other from inside our sleeping bags, until lights out at 10:30pm.

With the lights off, I could barely see silhouettes of the rock fish floating all around us. A steady hum from the tank pumps sounded like the white noise machine Edie uses at home. Both of us fell asleep within minutes.

Newport aquarium sleepover: What to expect on Day 2

The morning of our aquarium sleepover, I woke up around 6am. Everyone else was still snoozing, including my beyond adorable daughter. I couldn’t help but marvel at how big she has gotten. Just six years ago, she was basically a tadpole floating inside me. Now look at her:

I watched the fish swim around us as the tanks gradually lightened. At 6:45, the aquarium staff woke up the adults. We grown-ups used the bathroom and changed before all the kids woke up at 7am.

I expected Edie to be tired and groggy, having gone to bed so late and having slept on the floor. But she woke up as excited as she went to sleep. Mere minutes after she opened her eyes, she spotted an enormous wolf eel swim past her head!

After everyone got dressed and packed up their sleeping gear, we went back to the aquarium café for breakfast. Breakfast included a blueberry muffin cake, hard boiled eggs, cereal and oatmeal. All the adults went straight for the brewed coffee, while I poured hot water over some much-needed black tea. I only wish I’d remembered to bring my own tea, as I don’t love the generic teas the aquarium had on hand.

Once everyone had refueled, we followed the aquarium employees through a staff-only door. We walked up a set of stairs to the level above the Passages of the Deep tanks. We saw a trio of volunteer scuba divers slip into the tanks for routine cleaning and maintenance.

While we were above the tanks—or “behind the scenes,” as Edie kept repeating in an excited whisper—we learned about how the aquarium takes care of the many, many animals there. I got to add a ton of info to the animal trivia file inside my brain. (You should see how stuffed it is. Seriously. And if you ever want to get me to talk a lot, ask me about random animal facts!)

Next, we walked downstairs and went into the aviary. One of the bird experts met us there, where she told us about the puffins, auklets and oystercatchers that live at the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

Lastly, during the final minutes of having the aquarium all to ourselves, we got to see the octopus and sea mammals. The octopus must have gotten up on the right side of the (sea)bed—it seemed as though it were giving us a special show!

The sea lions and seals were incredibly active, too. They zipped and looped in the tank right before our eyes. I swear I could see their joy. They moved as if they were simply delighted to be alive on such a beautiful, sunny morning. To be honest, I knew exactly how they felt.

The sea lions were my favorite animal sighting at the aquarium sleepover—until I saw the sea otters. Typically at the Oregon Coast Aquarium, it’s nearly impossible to see these charismatic critters because a crowd always gathers around their tank. This morning, though, we were the only ones there! So Edie and I had an unimpeded view of the otters as they groomed themselves, spun somersaults in the water and nipped at each other, beginning the day’s very important play.

Finally, we were ushered into the Oregon Coast Aquarium gift shop. I understood the need to wrap up and get us out of the aquarium—after all, staff needed to get the grounds ready for the day’s visitors—and I respect that sales at the gift shop support the aquarium. But having our last stop be the gift shop put us parents in a very tight spot. All the kids wanted to buy stuffed sharks and jelly fish hats and octopus key chains.

I counted myself lucky to escape having bought only a handful of post cards and a few Melissa & Doug mermaid sticker books.

Aquarium sleepover logistics

The Oregon Coast Aquarium runs sleepover nights on select Fridays and Saturdays all year long, though more often during the summer. The Sleep in the Deep starts at 6pm and ends around 9:15 am the following day. Click on their sleepover schedule page to see if available dates work with your family vacation plans.

Cost of Oregon Coast Aquarium sleepover

The sleepover costs $80 per person, or $75 if you’re a member. This price includes all activities, dinner and breakfast.

Who can do an overnight stay at the aquarium?

Sleepover participants must be at least 6 years old. (Maxine was devastated she wasn’t old enough, but Edie kept reminding her we can come back when she turns 6. What a good big sister!)

Some sleepover nights are reserved for particular groups, like Girl Scouts or homeschool families, but others are open to any families who want to join.

That said, I wouldn’t recommend an aquarium overnight for kids who have nightmares often, who don’t sleep through the night, who wet the bed, or who are afraid of the dark.

What to pack for an aquarium sleepover

To stay comfortable during your overnight stay, bring:

• A sleeping bag and pillow
• A sleeping pad (remember, you’ll be sleeping directly on the ground, so you’ll want some cushion beneath you!)
• Your child’s lovey (anything that helps her sleep—Edie brought Lulu, the doll I made for her two summers ago, who goes everywhere with us)
• Long sleeves or layers (the aquarium got a little chilly, even during the summer, toward the end of the night and in the morning)
• Camera
• Phone charger (I somehow forgot mine and was super bummed because my battery was at 3% by the time we headed for our sleeping bags. A friendly dad let me borrow his, thank goodness!)
• Toiletries
• Pajamas
• A change of clothes
• Any foods you need, if you have dietary restrictions
• Anything you need to wake up in the morning (next time I’ll bring some good tea!)
• Sleep aids like ear plugs and a sleep mask, if they’ll help you sleep better

What not to bring to an aquarium sleepover

You’ll want to leave some things at home to make the most of your overnight at the aquarium. Don’t bring:

• Electronics like video games or tablets (you’ll want your kids to focus on the experience, not on a screen)
• Food (you’re not allowed to snack outside the aquarium café)
• Books, magazines, etc (you won’t have down time in between activities)
• Flash lights (you’re not allowed to use a flash light, or even your phone’s light, after 10:30: apparently even a little bit of light can keep the fish awake!)

The bottom line: Should you stay overnight at the aquarium?

If you haven’t already gathered, Edie and I had an amazing time during our overnight stay at the aquarium. When we left, she and I wrote post cards together to our friends and family, sharing the highlights of the trip. Edie dictated to me what she wanted to stay and drew pictures of her favorite parts. She kept talking about how excited she was to go “behind the scenes!”

Edie and I are already looking forward to our next sleepover.

Tips for a smooth sleepover at the Newport aquarium

1. Park in the wolf eel parking lot. This lot is not the usual place where we park for the main aquarium entrance. Instead, as you drive toward the aquarium, turn right. The third lot is the wolf eel lot. From there, you have about 100 feet to walk to the classroom.
2. Pack light. You’re responsible for carrying all your overnight gear to the opposite end of the aquarium. It’s not that far, but it feels like quite a distance if you’re carrying 100 pounds of stuff.
3. Bring a wagon. One super-smart mom brought a foldable wagon to wheel her family’s gear in. I’m definitely copying her next time!
4. Bring special food you’ll need for dinner or breakfast. If you or your kids can’t eat breakfast foods commonly found in a continental spread, or you have dietary restrictions, BYO meals.
5. Charge your phone or camera before you go. Edie and I wanted to take all the pictures!
6. Decide on a gift shop policy ahead of time. Tell your kids you’ll end in the gift shop—and choose what, if anything, they’re allowed to buy. If you leave the decision until that moment, you’ll be too sleepy to put up a fight.
7. Plan on a nap. You and your kids will probably be more tired than usual the next day. Edie was pooped! If your kid’s a napper (unfortunately, Edie hasn’t napped since before her 2^nd birthday), plan on a longer-than-typical snooze the day after your sleepover.

An unforgettable Sleep in the Deep

The Oregon Coast Aquarium Sleep in the Deep experience was one of the most fun things I’ve done with Edie. What’s more, it was even more memorable because it was a mommy-daughter day: a special trip with just the two of us.

My family has been to the Oregon Coast Aquarium many times before—after all, we’re members—but never like this. I wholeheartedly recommend this unique Oregon experience if you’re looking for things to do that are off the beaten path.

Let me know if you plan, or hope, to go. And if you schedule a sleepover for next summer, we might just see you there! I’m staying true to my promise to Edie: We’ll be back every year.

If you want a free printable aquarium scavenger hunt, click on over—it’s one of my most popular posts!

The post Oregon Coast Aquarium Sleepover: Sleep with the fishes behind the scenes! appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

But when we got to the beach in Neskowin, she was all in. We went during a minus tide (aka an unusually low tide), which meant even more of the Neskowin Beach was revealed—yes, including Oregon’s Ghost Forest.

These ancient tree stumps are only revealed during low tide; they’re covered by sand and water the rest of the time. So if you’re looking for different things to do in Oregon, you have to see the Neskowin Ghost Forest. Very few people—even folks who have lived in Oregon their whole lives—have ever seen these “ghost trees.” Most have never heard of them.

Luckily, you have an inside scoop.

Read on for how to see the Neskowin Ghost Forest and how this incredible landmark came to be.

By the way! If you’re taking an Oregon Coast road trip—or a drive of any sort—you’ll want my book Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids!

This book includes instructions for 33 games, plus free printables. Most of them are great for adults, too, to keep you entertained on the road.

Just click the link below to get your copy today!

How to see the Neskowin Ghost Forest

To see the Neskowin Ghost Forest, you’ll drive to Neskowin, Oregon. This tiny town of only 134 permanent residents is a 2-hour drive from Portland, 13 miles north of Lincoln City on the Oregon Coast.

Remember, the Neskowin Ghost Forest only appears at low tide. So before you plan a trip, look at the tide chart and plan to arrive an hour before low tide. That will give you enough time to park, make your way to the beach, cross the creek and check out these ancient trees.

You’ll find a spot in the public parking lot across from the Neskowin Trading Company, a great spot to grab drinks and snacks. (It also does made-to-order sandwiches and pizzas, plus a deli bar, if you want to get a picnic to eat on Neskowin Beach.) Just don’t park in the spaces designated for the trading company; you might get ticketed or towed.

Then walk the few feet to one of many public beach access points.

What you’ll see on Neskowin Beach

The first thing you’ll notice is the enormous rock, Proposal Rock, at the center of Neskowin Beach. Except since you timed your visit perfectly, the rock—usually surrounded by water—isn’t an island anymore. At low tide, you can walk around Proposal Rock and check out the many creatures that have made their home here.

When we recently came to see the Neskowin Ghost Forest, Edie—remember, she’s the one who didn’t want to go—made a bee-line for Proposal Rock. We circled it, discovering sea stars, anemones, crabs, mussels and more in its tide pools. I even freaked out Edie by picking up a crab… until it made a jump for it and leaped to the ground!

At low tide, you can also climb onto Proposal Rock and hike around it. Just wear sturdy shoes—it’s quite dense—and keep a close eye on the tide. You don’t want to get stranded up there and have to wade through the water when the tide comes back in!

But what you really came to Neskowin, Oregon to see was the Ghost Forest, right? Let’s talk more about that.

Exploring the Ghost Forest in Neskowin, Oregon

You’ll cross a creek that runs next to Proposal Rock to get to the south side of Neskowin Beach. That’s where the ancient tree stumps are… at least, until they disappear at the next high tide!

Throughout this section of Neskowin Beach, dozens of gnarled, ancient tree stumps are revealed when the Pacific Ocean pulls back twice a day. What’s remarkable is that we’re able to see the Ghost Forest at all:

It was just in the 90s that the Neskowin Ghost Forest reappeared, after a particularly bad winter storm that eroded parts of Neskowin Beach. Finally, the rumors and legends of an ancient forest underneath this beach were confirmed.

Scientists believe that the Neskowin Ghost Forest formed in the 1700s when a cataclysmic earthquake rocked this area. An entire forest of Sitka spruces collapsed as the earth’s plates shifted. The stumps were covered by sand, where the 2,000-year-old trees were mostly preserved.

Now we can see what remains of this forest. Some of the stumps have become home to sea life like barnacles. And they’re all fascinating to see.

Seeing this mysterious hidden gem in Oregon

I was amazed at how few people turned up to see the Neskowin Ghost Forest, even on a recent holiday weekend. It just goes to show how few people know about this off-the-beaten-path destination in Oregon.

But now you know how to see the Oregon Ghost Forest, when to come and why this stretch of Neskowin Beach is so cool.

Whether to let your kids believe it’s actually haunted is up to you.

The post Neskowin Ghost Forest: Oregon Coast’s Disappearing Trees appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

If you haven’t yet visited Manzanita, Oregon, you’ll want to include it in your getaway plans ASAP. It’s a tiny town of just over 600 people on the Oregon Coast. It’s smack dab in the middle of Seaside and Tillamook on Highway 101, yet it remains a (mostly) hidden treasure.

Unique things to do in Manzanita, Oregon

If you’ve never heard of Manzanita, Oregon, you’re not alone! Most people living elsewhere in Oregon stick to the better-known cities, and many Oregonians have never been to Manzanita.

So I don’t blame you for wanting to know just what makes this Oregon Coast town special. Well, I have alllll the details for you below with my favorite things to do in Manzanita.

If you’re stopping by Manzanita, OR on an Oregon Coast road trip, don’t forget to snag your copy of my book, Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids! (I promise it’s fun for adults, too!) The e-book and paperback versions include instructions for 33 games, plus ideas to customize each one to suit your crew’s preferences. Simply click the image below to get your copy!

Eat your heart out at the best Manzanita, Oregon restaurants

On a recent trip to Manzanita, we ate at the San Dune Pub (not a typo; it’s actually spelled like that—I know, very confusing), since I’d read they serve chocolate pie off-menu. Alas, the bartender—who had made the pies before her shift started for something like 14 years—got tired of all that baking, so no more chocolate pie. *sob*

The Sand Dune Pub is one of the main Manzanita restaurants in town and has basic pub fare. My table ordered burgers, fried oysters and salad. The main garden salad is seriously a full meal! This Manzanita restaurant also has a large outdoor patio, though we ate inside under a skylight for beautiful natural light.

Other Manzanita Restaurants

You’ll also want to try the famous cinnamon rolls at Bread and Ocean, a cozy bakery in town that also serves deli salads and paninis. They often sell out of the cinnamon rolls, though, so go early to make sure you get one!

If you’re with the kids and need to grab some lunch quick, order a hot dog from Manzanita Mudd Dog. This hot dog cart has picnic table seating, but I recommend taking it to go and eating it on the way to the nearby Manzanita Oregon beach.

Finally, if you are feeling snacky and don’t want a sit-down restaurant in Manzanita, head to Wild Community Cafe. This down-to-earth spot sells grab-and-go bites, makes espresso coffees and other drinks, and has a small natural food store. Don’t forget to leave a little note in its sweet “Thoughts, Wishes & Whims” jar.

Explore Manzanita Beach, Oregon

The reason you come to the Oregon Coast is the beach, right? Manzanita’s beach is wide and long, leaving plenty of space to slowly walk and let the tide’s rhythm relax you. I literally feel my shoulders ease downward out of my ears the second I take a deep breath on the beach. Ahhhhhh.

When I recently went to Manzanita, Oregon with three girlfriends, we couldn’t help but do cartwheels, jump over saltwater puddles and chase huge flocks of seagulls! (Ok, that last part was just me. I couldn’t help it! The seagulls weren’t impressed.)

Also on a recent day, a nonprofit was teaching small teams of people to sift the sand for microplastic debris. Volunteers were cleaning up the tiny pieces of pollution that continue to break down in the water—and get eaten by sealife (and, eventually, humans). I love to see community action!

One of the best things to do in Manzanita, Oregon, is to explore the great outdoors! Throw a rock and you’ll hit an amazing rock on the Oregon Coast: They’re everywhere! Manzanita is no exception.

My favorite hike near Manzanita, Oregon is a 1-mile round-trip, kid-friendly hike to the beach in Oswald West State Park.

Simply park in the large parking area, a 4-minute drive north of Manzanita, take the walking path beneath Highway 101, and follow the signs to the beach. (Or, more realistically, follow the surfers! It’s a super-popular surfing spot.)

Just a half-hour away is another hike near Manzanita in Ecola State Park. The dramatic bluffs offer amazing views of the Pacific Ocean (and, sometimes, migrating whales!).

Go shopping in Manzanita

If it’s a gloomy day and you’re wondering what to do in Manzanita, Oregon, I have the perfect alternative to hitting the beach – Go shopping instead!Like most other towns on the Oregon Coast, Manzanita has plenty of cute shops for browsing. But what I loved about Manzanita is that not every store has the same-old cheap, touristy sweatshirts as every other place.

I loved Moxie, a fair trade boutique that buys from artisans all across the world. I bought my girls each an adorable animal figurine, though these handmade cup cozies were calling my name! (How adorable are they?!)

Oregon Coast Clothing Co. sells hats, t-shirts and sweatshirts with an edgier style than you typically see in beach towns. In fact, it would be more at home in Portland than on the Oregon Coast, but lucky us! It found its home in Manzanita. I was especially drawn to its muscle tank tops and hats.

Salt & Paper sells pretty much the only postcards in town. And boy are they beautiful! The Oregon Coast landscape photography puts most other postcards to shame, TBH. (I sent one to my family, since I mail postcards to my family wherever I go!)

Bonus: Salt & Paper also sells delicious taffy made in a gluten-free, nut-free factory, so you can eat taffy without worrying about your allergies.

Manzanita, Oregon: My favorite tiny town on the Oregon Coast

I absolutely love Manzanita, Oregon. Its laid-back, independent vibe speaks my language.

If you’re more about exploring tiny towns than fighting crowds of tourists, you’ll want to visit Manzanita, Oregon. Shop in the independently owned stores. Walk the Manzanita Beach. Sip a cup of coffee and eat fresh-baked bread. Simply enjoy this little Oregon Coast town—I know I did.

Have you been to Manzanita on the Oregon Coast? Did I miss any of your favorite things to do there?

PS – If you are looking for more fun on the Oregon Coast, don’t miss my 24-hour itinerary for nearby Florence, Oregon or my in-depth post on the secluded community of Bella Beach, Oregon.

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