Inn-Escapable >> Newport
People come to this part of the Oregon coast for, above all else, the water — the glorious Yaquina Bay. Here are two hotel options that capitalize on that proximity.
Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites
As the name promises, every guest room balcony at the Elizabeth offers magnificent views of the untamed Oregon coast. The sound of waves lulls you to sleep. And the location is prime, too, with Nye Beach and a lively community of restaurants, bars, shops and galleries a short stroll away.
ZZZ’s: The hotel’s 72 suites include comfy couches, one king or two queen beds, a gas fireplace and a balcony with that million-dollar view. No air conditioning, which is pretty standard for the Oregon coast, but I just kept the balcony door open and enjoyed the cool ocean breeze through the night.
SPLASHES: Bring a bathing suit so you can enjoy the hotel’s indoor pool and hot tub.
EXTRAS: Stop by the lobby for a complimentary cup of smoked salmon chowder — from Seattle’s famed Ivar’s — in the late afternoon, and freshly baked cookies in the evening. Head outdoors to enjoy the fire pit area, with sand underfoot and, of course, those glorious views. Details: Rooms start at $160 and include a simple continental breakfast. 232 S.W. Elizabeth St., Newport; www.elizabethoceanfrontsuites.com.
Anchor Pier Lodge
It’s easy to miss this lodge, located without any noticeable signage on the second floor above a storefront offering bay cruises. But this is a hidden gem worth seeking out. This laid-back, casual inn sits on a pier in the middle of Newport’s Historic Bayfront, a working waterfront where guys in rubber boots bring in the catch of the day, and tourists flock to bars, restaurants and attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
ZZZ’s: The Anchor Pier’s five rooms are individually decorated in coastal themes, from the Captain’s Quarters, done up in nautical blue, burgundy and brass, to the sunny, cottage-style Coastal Garden. All the rooms have decks — the Bayfront History room offers wharf views, the other four look out on the bay — and Euro-top mattresses and down duvets. SPLASHES: Some rooms have walk-in showers; others have air-jet tubs. The tub-for-two in the Ocean’s Edge room is next to a large bay window, so you can watch fishing boats passing by outside as you soak. EXTRAS: The lodge is run by Fran and Don Mathews, who also run the popular Marine Discovery Tours downstairs. You can practically roll out of bed and onto a boat for a two-hour tour.
DETAILS: Rooms start at $145. 345 S.W. Bay Blvd., Newport; anchorpierlodge.com.