Though there is no traditional sandy beach, Devil’s Punchbowl is an interesting natural seaside attraction. Formed by the collapse of two underwater caves, the punchbowl is a large hollow that fills and empties as the tide goes in and out. During low tide we would dash between the fascinating tide pools filled with aquatic plant life. There’s also a nearby Mo’s Restaurant location, open during the busy season.

Overlooking the Pacific and the bay, Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site sits right in Newport, on the northwestern side of the bay itself. This convenient location makes for a relatively crowded park, but there is both beach and jetty access, and it’s always a thrill to watch ships as they travel through the jetty.

With some beach access, Seal Rock can be used for beach play, but it is really known as a place to watch seals and sea lions bask on the massive rocks sitting just offshore. Sitting a short drive away from town, the park gets less traffic than might be expected, allowing ample room for sand castle building with the funny, intriguing barks of sea lions as background noise.

Only in operation for three years before it was deemed unnecessary, the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is really interesting because of a scary story written in 1899 by Lischen M. Miller. Fascinated by this tale as a child, it’s etched into my mind to this day. For adults, there are a number of interesting displays on Oregon’s maritime and lighthouse history, as well as a nice little gift shop in the basement.

Part of the Ripley’s chain of “museums,” this always looked a little too touristy, so I’ve never actually been inside. Directly connected to the affiliated Wax Works museum, these places have their own special appeal.