Welcome to Newport
Perched along the central Oregon Coast, Newport is a lively and scenic town that offers residents a perfect blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and modern conveniences. Known for its iconic Yaquina Bay Bridge, historic lighthouse, and thriving fishing industry, Newport has long been a cultural and economic hub of Lincoln County. With breathtaking ocean views, miles of sandy beaches, and a welcoming community, Newport continues to attract those seeking both adventure and a peaceful coastal lifestyle. The town is also home to the NOAA Marine Operations Center - Pacific (MOC-P), which serves as the homeport for two NOAA ships and supports the entire Pacific fleet, adding to its maritime significance.
Newport is a town that seamlessly blends history with modern living. From the historic Bayfront district to Nye Beach’s artsy vibe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Residents have easy access to outdoor recreation, local shopping, and world-class dining featuring fresh seafood. For those seeking quality healthcare, the town is served by Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital, a fully accredited facility featuring state-of-the-art equipment and a highly skilled, compassionate healthcare staff, ensuring that residents and visitors alike are well taken care of. Whether it’s exploring tide pools at Yaquina Head, visiting the Oregon Coast Aquarium, or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere, Newport offers a vibrant, fulfilling lifestyle for families, retirees, and professionals alike.
What to Love
- Stunning ocean and bay views, with easy beach access
- A thriving arts, dining, and cultural scene
- Endless outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and whale watching
- Vibrant local economy and job market
- Historic landmarks and a strong sense of community
- High-quality healthcare
Local Lifestyle
Life in Newport is all about embracing the coastal lifestyle. Residents enjoy a laid-back yet active pace of life, with daily activities often revolving around the beach, the bay, and the town’s many community events. Outdoor recreation is a major part of the lifestyle, with locals frequently fishing, crabbing, or kayaking in Yaquina Bay or taking leisurely strolls along the sandy shores of Agate Beach and South Beach.
Newport also has a strong sense of culture and community. The town’s artistic vibe is evident in its galleries, festivals, and live performances at the Newport Performing Arts Center. Residents often gather at the Newport Farmers Market or enjoy meals at local eateries, creating a close-knit community atmosphere in this beautiful coastal town.
Dining and Shopping
Newport is a foodie’s paradise, especially for those who love fresh seafood. The town’s location along Yaquina Bay and the Pacific Ocean ensures that local restaurants have access to some of the freshest seafood in the region. One of the most beloved dining spots is Local Ocean Seafoods, a restaurant and fish market that offers a dock-to-table experience with dishes like fish tacos, clam chowder, and Dungeness crab. For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Georgie’s Beachside Grill serves up Pacific Northwest cuisine with breathtaking oceanfront views. For more upscale dining, there is also Local Ocean Seafood and Clearwater Restaurant, both of which are located on the Historic Bayfront and boast beautiful bay views, making them an ideal spot to enjoy fresh catches while taking in the scenic surroundings.
Nye Beach, one of Newport’s most iconic neighborhoods, is a favorite spot for both dining and shopping. The area is home to charming cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon. The Nye Beach Café offers a cozy spot for breakfast or lunch, while Nana’s Irish Pub is a local favorite for hearty meals and lively entertainment.
For those looking to bring home fresh seafood, the Oregon Oyster Farm is a must-visit, offering oysters straight from Yaquina Bay. The Newport Marina Store & Yaquina Bay Charters is another popular spot for residents who love to fish or book a charter for whale watching or deep-sea fishing adventures.
Things to Do and Entertainment
Newport is packed with things to do, especially for those who love outdoor adventures and exploring nature. The Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is a must-visit, offering stunning views of the rugged coastline, tide pools filled with marine life, and the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Residents can also explore the trails and beaches at Agate Beach and South Beach, perfect for beachcombing, surfing, and picnicking.
The town’s rich history and culture are also major draws. The Newport Historic Bayfront is a lively district filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as commercial fishing docks where visitors can watch fishing boats come and go. The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Oregon, is a fascinating piece of Newport’s maritime history. The town also hosts a variety of community events, including the Newport Seafood & Wine Festival, which brings locals and visitors together to celebrate the region’s culinary and cultural heritage.
Additionally, the Newport Jazz Festival attracts music lovers from all over, offering a lively atmosphere with top-notch jazz performances.
For those seeking arts and entertainment, the Newport Performing Arts Center (PAC), located in Nye Beach, is the premiere performance venue on the Oregon coast. It is home to a group of resident companies affectionately called the PACRATs, a collective of community music, theatre, and dance producers who keep the facility busy year-round with events. Just a short distance away, at the historic Nye Beach turnaround, the Newport Visual Arts Center (VAC) offers a unique space for public art exhibitions and art education programs. Built by the City of Newport in 1983 and operated by the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, the VAC is an excellent destination for art enthusiasts.