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The big crowd pleaser in Newport is the Oregon Coast Aquarium. At one time it was home to marine royalty in the form of Keiko the orca (of Free Willy fame), which pretty much makes it the Four Seasons of aquatic hotels. And a Newport vacation rental offers up some treats above the water level too. The Hatfield Marine Science Center has exhibits including a giant octopus, while Newport's iconic Yaquina Head Lighthouse is the tallest one on the whole Oregon coast. Even better, it's reputed to be haunted, so strap on your proton packs.
Aquatic life features heavily in a Newport vacation rental, whether you're admiring it in an aquarium or attempting to haul it out for your next meal. For the authentic Newport experience, head down to the water's edge or the fishing pier and get crabbing for Dungeness crab. Newport's well provided with beaches too, and the surfing's pretty good. Whether you're on board a kayak or a boat, or just kicking back on the beach, you'll want to keep your eyes on the horizon in case the gray whales decide to make an appearance.
You want the good news or the bad news? The good news is that temperatures are pretty mild in Newport, so even in winter you probably won't need the arctic-grade goose down jacket. On the flipside, "changeable" doesn't quite cover it, and it does like to rain here. Winter and fall are when you'll have the biggest chance of horizontal rain flying in off the ocean, but even summer can get damp sometimes. Forewarned, however, is forearmed, so pack your slicker and sou'wester before you set off for your Newport vacation rental, and all will be well.
Newport is set on semi-enclosed Yaquina Bay, which opens out into the big old Pacific Ocean. Marine research is a big part of the local economy, and you'll soon see why. From the crabs, clams, and cockles to the pelicans, pelagic cormorants, and pigeon guillemots, the range of underwater and seabird life is mind-boggling. As for the mammals, if you want to catch sea lions, just head down to their favorite hang-out at the docks. Look out to sea, and you'll be in with a chance of spotting gray whales, particularly during their annual migrations up and down the coast.
Newport has pristine beaches for families and couples to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and watersports. Vacation homes are available near beach locales like Nye Beach, a serene beach with sunset views, watersports, and a historic district with shops and restaurants, and South Beach State Park, a sheltered campground with a sandy beach and jetty by marshes and walking trails. You'll also like Agate Beach State Recreation Site, a state park with a sandy beach that’s popular for clamming, surfing, and fishing.
Families with children can enjoy an array of family-friendly activities in Newport. Vacation rentals can be found near places like the Wax Works, a museum with wax sculptures of film stars, and the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center, a museum with art, exhibits, and a wharf dedicated to seafaring history. Kids will also like the Burrows House, a local history museum and research library in a Queen Anne-style Victorian home.
Our 2021 property listings offer a large selection of 844 vacation rentals around Newport. From 559 house rentals to 58 cabin rentals, find a unique house rental for you to enjoy a memorable holiday or a weekend with your family and friends.