How to Explore Oregon's Central Coast

Enjoy solitude at the beach, and windswept views? How about a world-famous brewery or aquarium? Oregon's dramatic central coast offers so much, and so many beaches, to explore that it would take a lifetime. However, here are a few ideas to get you started enjoying this special, less discovered shore.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Transportation
• Fees for some areas and attractions
• Fleece jacket just in case

1. Visit Newport, one hour's drive from Corvallis, Oregon, to find a bustling strip of restaurants and shops. Closer to the ocean you'll notice Rogue Brewery, a Gold Medal Award-winning facility that brews over thirty types of microbrews, including the Oregon pub favorite, Dead Guy. Tours are available, and restaurants feature in the brewery itself, in Newport, and as an extra bonus, inside the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
2. See the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Tucked away in the outskirts of Newport, it is highly rated and impressive. Though not as giant as the Monterey Bay Aquarium, this offers a great variety of fish in a beautiful, well-designed modern facility. At the outside pools you can view otters and seals, and there is even an aviary. Of course a tidal pool is available for young ones to touch the sea creatures.
3. Go beach-combing. South of Newport try Ona Beach, Seal Rock Beach or the beaches at Yachats. All of these are spectacular in their own way. You can also search for agates (gemstones)! It will keep the kids busy for hours.
4. Watch for whales. Two major whale-watching spots are the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center (south of Newport) and Depoe Bay (north of Newport). Visitor Center volunteers are eager to help, and binoculars are available--though sometimes you don't need any. Off the Oregon coast whales often swim just a few miles from shore.
5. Go hiking at Cape Perpetua. One beautiful trail leads to an old Sitka Spruce, and another popular seven-mile hike runs through an abundance of creeks and old growth forest. You don't have to worry about crowds here.
6. North of Newport, aim for Yaquina Head at low tide. You will have to pay a day use fee, but you will never forget the green sea anemones, purple sea urchins and numerous starfish swaying upon and around the watery rocks.

Tips & Warnings

• Clam chowder warms you up on a cold day.
• Never turn your back to the ocean. Riptides are common and may surprise you, sweeping you off your feet.

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