Spring Bucket List for Newport
- John Perez
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
Spring on the Oregon Coast brings a fresh sense of discovery, and Newport is full of adventures of all types. As the days get longer, the ocean air feels a little warmer, and the town’s small businesses, natural areas, and cultural sites start to stir with new energy. Spring in Newport is a quiet prelude to the summer rush and a wonderful time to visit.
Here are a few ways to enjoy the season, support local, and soak up everything Newport has to offer.
Take a Marine Discovery Tour
Marine Discovery Tours is an engaging way to see Newport from the water. Tours include wildlife spotting, pulling crab pots, and on-board insights from naturalists. It’s educational and relaxing all at once, with a chance to see sea lions, birds, and even whales during the right time of year. Learn more at https://www.marinediscoverytours.com
Spend a Saturday at the Newport Farmers Market
The Newport Farmers Market is open for the season and continues every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM through the Fall. With dozens of vendors, the market offers seasonal produce, baked goods, hot food, local coffee, handmade gifts, sauces, honey, and live music. Details and vendor info are at https://www.newportfarmersmarket.org
Explore the Tidepools at Yaquina Head
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is one of the coast's most beautiful and hidden tidepooling spots. At low tide, you’ll find colorful sea stars, anemones, urchins, and crabs clinging to the rocks. Spring tides offer good opportunities for tidepool exploration with fewer people on the trails. Plan your visit at https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/oregon-washington/yaquina-head-ona
Take a Coastal Hike
Newport has trails that stay green year-round and are especially inviting in spring. Try the forested loop at Mike Miller Park or walk along the open coastal stretch of the South Jetty Trail. Watch for blooming wildflowers and migrating birds along the way.
Visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium
The Oregon Coast Aquarium is especially enjoyable in spring when crowds are smaller, but it is a great stop in any season. Exhibits highlight native marine species, from sea otters and octopus to deep-sea fish and tidepool creatures. Touch tanks and a walk-through tunnel give you a close-up view of the Oregon Coast’s underwater world. Tickets and info: https://aquarium.org
Try the Seasonal Catch
Spring is a great time to enjoy Newport’s fresh seafood. Dungeness crab, pink shrimp, and rockfish are in season. Visit Local Ocean (https://localocean.net), Clearwater Restaurant (https://www.clearwaterrestaurant.com), Mo’s Seafood & Chowder (https://www.moschowder.com) or many of Newport's other dining options.
Browse Local Art and Boutiques
On a rainy afternoon or slow morning, take some time to explore Newport’s small shops and galleries. For Artsake Gallery (http://www.forartsakegallery.com), Wind Drift Gallery (https://www.facebook.com/winddriftgallery), and Jovi (https://maps.app.goo.gl/VTaAoJxqRtwcNrh59) offer locally made jewelry, home goods, coastal gifts, and more.
Take a Beach Picnic
Pick up something fresh from Nye Beach Cafe (https://www.facebook.com/nyebeachcafe) or Ultralife Cafe (https://www.ultralifecafe.com), grab a blanket, and head to the sand. Agate Beach, Nye Beach, or the quieter stretches near South Jetty are ideal for springtime picnics.
Stay in a Coastal Gem
If you’re looking for somewhere with character, there are a few special places worth noting. Agate Beach Motel (https://www.agatebeachmotel.com) offers retro charm and ocean views. The Newport Belle (https://www.newportbelle.com) is a B&B on a historic riverboat. The Louie (https://www.thelouie.com) in Nye Beach offers boutique suites just steps from shops and restaurants.
Newport’s local businesses and seasonal rhythms make spring one of the most rewarding times to visit. For more recommendations on where to stay, eat, and explore, head to https://discovernewport.com