Your Guide to the Oregon Coast

September 05, 2017

Your Guide to the Oregon Coast

Every year, Tony and I leave our beautiful city of Seattle and venture south towards the state of Oregon where the sales tax is free and the coastline of the Pacific Ocean is so gorgeous that you will probably make it a tradition l like we do year after year.

I have grown up coming to the Oregon Coast and Tony and I have continued the tradition; we got engaged there, I was pregnant (through my misery of being pregnant, the Oregon Coast gave me some sort of happiness), and we have been bringing Donovan here every year during the 4 years of his little life.

So here is the complete guide to a Phillips/Froese Oregon Coast getaway-yes, I still have not changed my maiden name to my married name, after 9 years. It will eventually get done!

Traveling there:

· We take the infamous I-5 and go through the infamous Seattle and Tacoma traffic. You’re really going to hit traffic at some time during the trip, whether it be in Seattle or Portland. It is about a 5-6 hour drive and we usually follow the signs to the Oregon Coast in Salem.

· EVERY SINGLE YEAR we stop at the Woodburn Premium Outlet mall, I mean, come on you can’t beat no tax. Now that Donovan is going into Pre-school this year *tear, it will be a for sure yearly stop for back to school clothes for this little dude.

What Cities to Visit and Where to stay:

· We visit Lincoln City, Depot Bay and Newport. All towns are about 15-30 minutes from each other. For our weekend visits, we like to keep it local in Newport since there is so much to do, but for 4-5 day stays we venture to all 3 cities, for each one has their own beautiful beaches, shopping and restaurants.

· There are a TON of ocean front places to stay and I’m sure they are all wonderful. Do yourself a favor and check out MoolackShores Motel in Newport Oregon. Every room is themed and have a private deck, some facing the ocean for those beautiful ocean views. Reasonably priced for about $90-$140 per night and has AMAZING charm and spirit. Not your average 5 star resort, but perfect for families and gives you beach access with a stairwell that leads right onto the beach. We have been staying here for the last three years and it NEVER NEVER disappoints. Say hi to Howard when you walk towards the beach! He is there EVERY single year!

Just hanging on our patio

Driveway entrance to the Motel

Private stairs to the beach

What to do (I am showcasing Newport more because we stayed there this trip):

· So much shopping! The piers in Newport are LINED with souvenir shops, candy and ice cream shops, clothing stores, art galleries, and toy stores. Depot Bay provides the same kind of shopping while Lincoln City has their own outlet mall.

· Whale Tours, fishing tours and underwater tours are available in Newport. There is also Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum along with a wax museum.

· The Oregon Coast Aquarium is extremely entertaining for all kids and adults. We did not visit this year because we go every other year.

· The Yaquina Lighthouse in Newport is breathtaking and so much fun to explore. Especially for Donovan!

Beach hair to it's finest

· Visit the Sea Lions underneath the decks of Newport! Just follow their barking and you’ll find them!

Where to eat (THE BEST PART!!!):

· Tony and I try to visit our favorite places while at the same time try new places. Of course you’re going to find the freshest seafood in EVERY restaurant! Here is a list of where we went on this trip:

o TheCoffee House-Newport: ALWAYS ALWAYS busy! They have a PERFECT selection of brunch dishes and the best espresso and coffee drinks. They do not take reservations, but we have not had a problem getting a table after we ordered.

o TidalRaves-Depot Bay: GORGEOUS views and beautifully crafted drinks. We were lucky enough to get in for dinner without a reservation, but I strongly suggest you make one before going. Tony’s dish was almost too gorgeous to eat!

o Clearwater-Newport: This location has been around forever, but I think they must have been overtaken with new owners. It is a perfect spot for brunch and of course has a gorgeous view of Newport’s wharf. Just keep in mind that your eating experience will not be quiet because you are also dining with sea lions which is very entertaining!

o OceanBleu Seafoods @ Ginos-Newport: You will feel like you just walked into a fisherman’s boat here with the décor and serving right off the boat seafood! Laid back atmosphere and hearty and filling food!

Best Fish Tacos I have EVERY had!!!

o Doodlebugs-Newport: ICE CREAM!!! Need I say more???!!!!

· Here is a list of where we have been in the past that you MUST try!

o Mo’sAnnex-Newport: Locations everywhere along the Coast between Lincoln City and Newport. Historic and good family restaurant

o LocalOcean Seafoods-Newport: Market fresh ingredients and beautiful seating area with doors that open to take in the ocean views and smells.

o Kylo’sSeafood and Grill-Lincoln City: Wonderful service, fun drinks and fresh food!

o RoguesAles Public House-Newport: Did you know that Newport has a brewery?! Right next to the aquarium but they also have a bar and grill restaurant in Newport!

o GeorgiosBeachside Grill-Newport: Located attached to the Hallmark Inn.

How to dress:

· We have been in different times of the year and I have to say that this last weekend during Labor Day weekend was the best weather we have ever experienced! Wearing shorts and tops and maybe needing a jacket during the evening. During the beginning of summer it is cooler so that is more jean weather.