Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site
Description
Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site, established in 1948, is a coastal state park in west-central Lincoln County, Oregon, United States, in the city of Newport. It is administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, and located at the north end of Yaquina Bay near its outlet to the Pacific Ocean.
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Description
Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site, established in 1948, is a coastal state park in west-central Lincoln County, Oregon, United States, in the city of Newport. It is administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, and located at the north end of Yaquina Bay near its outlet to the Pacific Ocean.
Posts
A small but wonderful area in Newport, OR. The area is home to the historic Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, which sits at the highpoint of the recreation site. It overlooks the beach below which boasts small sand dunes and the North Jetty. There is parking where the road passes through the main site, though it could possibly get a bit crowded on busy summer days. The area around the lighthouse has a number of picnic tables for those who want to spend time eating and taking in the sights. One of the highlights at this site is an overlook which is comprised of a wooden deck. From here, you can see the historic Yaquina Bay Bridge in its entirety spanning the bay. You can also see the North and South Jetty, which marks the channel for Naval vessels to make safe passage in and out of the harbor. One of the best times to see the bridge is just before sunrise. In the instances I have gone during that time, very few people were there. Sunrise from the lookout is beautiful...but it doesn't end there. That's the time all of the fishing vessels start departing the harbor. There's also a good chance to see a Coast Guard vessel as well. On my last visit, I observed 30 vessels departing the harbor. You can also follow a sidewalk next to the main road and walk under the bridge. The sidewalk will actually take you down to the bayfront if you follow it far enough. Great place. A lot to see, and a bit of history.
We went there when it was freezing and out of season, but still a good place to relax. What can I tell you about state parks and the workers who maintain them? I have nothing but respect and reverence for the workers and the places they maintain, for us! Paths are well maintained, and easy for my aging and out-of-shape body to navigate. Just a lovely little spot, will definitely be back here in the season. Probably a good place to watch king tides.
You've got to check out this beach! It has it all. Yes, lots of sand, but also whale watching, rocks to climb on, tide pools to explore, and light houses and bridges to view. We stopped for a day, BUT stayed for a week (yes, that's how great it is). At night there are fires on the beach to enjoy. We stopped over the 4th of July and people were even lighting off fireworks on the beach, so cool. Until we meet again...
This was an unexpected surprise! Not only is there a great beach on the North end of the jetty, but you can see some of the ships come and go out of the Bay. Lots of sand dunes and wind breaks on the beach. There's also a very old lighthouse on site to be investigated, as well as a beautiful memorial to the lives lost at sea from the Bay. Lots of parking, it's a day use area and we paid no fee going in.
I love coming here every time we are in the area. The lighthouse is closed due to covid. I never tire of walking through the lighthouse when it is open and hope when we come back it will be open to the public. Within easy walking distance into the Nye Beach area and to the Newport's Bayfront area. There are trails leading down to the beach. Great views of the bridge and bay area from the park.
Very informative tour of an incredible lighthouse that was brought back from the brink of demolition. Free self-guided tour allowing you access to most of the building and the gardens that surround. 12 minute video provides a great overview of the lighthouse, it's history, and some of the history of the area. Incredible view of the jetties and boats coming in.
Nearby Attractions Of Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site
Hallmark Resort Newport
Yaquina Bay Lighthouse
Yaquina Bay Bridge
Yaquina Bay North Viewpoint
Yaquina Bay Bridge Trail
View Point
Burrows House
Yaquina Beach

Hallmark Resort Newport

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

Yaquina Bay Bridge

Yaquina Bay North Viewpoint
Nearby Restaurants Of Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site
Georgie's Beachside Grill
Mo's Seafood & Chowder
Rogue Bayfront Public House
Rogue Ales & Spirits
Ocean Bleu Seafoods at Gino's
Pig 'N Pancake
Mo's Seafood & Chowder
Newport Steak & Seafood
Lucky Thai Elephant Restaurant
Yummy Bowl Restaurant.

Georgie's Beachside Grill

Mo's Seafood & Chowder

Rogue Bayfront Public House

Rogue Ales & Spirits
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