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Three Weeks Left in Central Oregon Coast Giveaway

 

 

 

 

Secrets of the Season

Three Weeks Left in Central Oregon Coast Giveaway

 

Dining outdoors in Nye Beach

(Newport, Oregon) – For a little bit longer, winter provides a truly crystalline opportunity for tourists to the Oregon coast resort town of Newport.

Your next trip to the Oregon coast could be one of a kind - like the original commemorative glass floats given away by Newport merchants for the rest of January. No stormy beachcombing or wave dodging is required to find one of these 200 luminous artisan collectibles, blown by Pyromania Glass Studios.

A1 Beach Rentals, Lincoln City. Perfect for large family vacations all the way down to a getaway lodging for two - with over 25 vacation rental homes to choose from. A breathtaking collection of craftsman or traditional beachfront homes, or oceanview houses – from one to seven bedrooms. In various areas of Lincoln City and overlooking the beach, with some in Depoe Bay. All kinds of amenities are available, like hot tubs, decks, BBQ, rock fireplaces, beamed ceilings and more. Some are new, some are historic charmers. Lincoln City, Oregon. 1-(503)-232-5984. www.a1beachrentals.com.

The rules for the sixth Glass Treasures giveaway are simple. Between Nov. 1, 2006, and Jan. 31, 2007, visit one of the businesses listed at www.newportchamber.org, or on a map available from the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce (800-262-7844). Fill out an entry form and return it to the float display at the business; enter at any – or all – of the merchants. Weekly drawings will be held throughout the winter, with the remainder of the floats given away Jan. 31, when each business will select two names from its entry pool. Winners will be notified by mail.

Nye Beach

The floats are now in production at Pyromania Glass Studios, Newport’s original source for the vibrant keepsakes that have become synonymous with the Oregon coast. Visitors can watch the Schmitz family — Dennis and Patricia, and their daughter Andrea — in action from the gallery of their Aquarium Village studio in Newport’s South Beach neighborhood. The ancient art of glass blowing is alive and well, just a stone’s throw from the Oregon Coast Aquarium and other family attractions.

The Glass Treasures promotion is designed to introduce Northwest travelers to the busy “value season” in Newport. In this cozy central coast destination, families explore two historic lighthouses, exhibits at OSU’s Hatfield Marine Science Center and the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the sights and sounds of the vibrant Bayfront, the arts of Nye Beach, and the shopping throughout Newport, all while enjoying the best lodging rates of the year.

Lincoln City Vacation Homes There’s something for everyone among this selection of wondrous homes: smaller homes with a view to a large house that sleeps 15. All the homes are either oceanfront or just a few steps away from the sand – all with a low bank access and fantastic views. Most are in the Nelscott area; one is close to the casino. You’ll find a variety of goodies, depending on the home: fireplaces, multiple bedrooms, dishwashers, Jacuzzis, washer/dryers, hot tubs, cable TV, VCR, barbecues; there’s a loft in one, and another sprawling home has two apartments. Pets are allowed in some homes – ask ahead. Each comes with complete kitchens so you’ll have a home away from home. Most have the seventh night free. Prices range from winter $85 to summer $230 per night. www.getaway2thecoast.com. 541-994-8778.

For more information on visiting Newport during the “value season,” head to www.newportchamber.org, or call 800-262-7844.

Glass found in Agate Beach (courtesy Starfish Point)

For decades, Japanese glass floats were a big find on Oregon’s coastline, having drifted thousands of miles after fishing boats lost these smooth, crystalline balls, used to keep their nets afloat. It was a tradition among coastal visitors to scour the beaches for them, and many locals still adorn their cabins or porches with them. They practically disappeared in the 80’s, and are extremely rare finds these days.

Now, this new glass float tradition is rising on the coast, with a few artisan glass ball blowing shops showing up in the last couple of decades and creating beautiful, ingenious works of art. They come in a myriad of colors and unique designs, and are now considered one of the more treasured finds on the coast – even if you can just buy them.

This is the second year of the "value season" promotion for Newport, which achieved magnificent success in 2005.

Yaquina Bay

Like the promotion, Newport is one of a kind on the coast. Here, you’ll find the ancient Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, only used for three years back in the 1880’s and open for tours. Then there’s the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, sitting atop a majestic basalt headland, towering into the sky and blinking its signature flash still to this day.

BREATHTAKING CLIFFTOP IN NEWPORT

STARFISH POINT Newport - Offers only the finest in luxury condominium lodging. Every unit is focused on the beauty of the sea and the beach.
All units boast two bedrooms, two bathrooms, designer kitchens, wireless broadband Internet, fireplaces, Jacuzzi’s and private decks. Friendly staff dedicated to high quality and superb customer service. 140 NW 48th Street, Newport. (541) 265-3751. (800) 870-7795. www.starfishpoint.com

Other family attractions include the awe-inspiring Oregon Coast Aquarium (including its 360-degree view of the ocean from inside a glass-like tunnel), and the famed Hatfield Marine Science Center with its cutting-edge scientific research and displays for all ages.

There’s a legendary wine bar in the charming Nye Beach District called Blu Cork, regular wine tasting at Nye Beach Gallery, a heavily supported art scene, and the streets of that neighborhood are made up to look somewhere between America at the turn of the century and Old Europe.

Above Agate Beach

The district is becoming famous for its many fine cuisine choices, such as the stellar, Mediterranean-themed fine dining at April’s at Nye Beach, the unique, stunning Thai cuisine of Thai Talay, and the family-style gourmet of Café Stephanie. Or shop until you drop at a dozen distinctive sellers of various interesting ideas for yourself or for gifts, such as the surprises at Illingworth's Gifts or the global fare at Jovi.

In the meantime, you’ll want to explore the pristine beaches of Newport – most of which are up against Nye Beach. You may still run across a real Japanese glass float that has been wandering the oceans for decades.

For a detailed virtual tour of Newport and Nye Beach, see https://www.beachconnection.net/vtour_newport.htm.

DIVE INTO LUXURY, HISTORY AT THE TIDES

THE TIDES BY THE SEA, Seaside. For over 80 years a favorite of Seaside visitors. 51 oceanfront condos, individually owned and decorated. Suites for couples, small apartments with fireplaces and kitchenettes, one or two bed family units with fireplaces, kitchens and dining rooms. Oceanview cottages sleep anywhere from two to eight, w/ two bedrooms, some with lofts, fireplaces and kitchens. Heated outdoor pool, enormous grounds w/ picnic tables - all at quiet southern end of Seaside. 2316 Beach Drive. 800-548-2846. www.thetidesbythesea.com.

 

Tradewinds Motel, Rockaway Beach. All rooms at the Tradewinds Motel are immaculate and have TV’s, VCR’s and in-room phones with data ports. The oceanfronts all have a queen bed, a double hide-a-bed, kitchen, cozy firelog fireplace and a private deck. Some oceanfront units come with all those amenities but the kitchens. Both types sleep up to four people. Others are appointed with a queen bed, small fridge, and coffee maker – sizable for a two-person romantic getaway, yet still perfect for those on a budget. There is an elaborate oceanfront Jacuzzi suite that has two bedrooms, coming with a kitchen, double hide-a-bed, fireplace and private deck, sleeping as many as six. For those wanting bigger accommodations for family reunions or large gatherings such as weddings, some rooms can connect to create two-room and three-room suites. Some rooms are pet friendly.523 N. Pacific St., Rockaway Beach. (503) 355-2112 - 1-800-824-0938. www.tradewinds-motel.com

 

D Sands Condominium Motel, Lincoln City. Getting a free, fresh baked cookie upon check-in is just the beginning. Every room is beachfront, and it's all right up against Lincoln City's most famous stretch of beach, next to the D River. Each room, comes as a suite or mini-suite, and has a kitchen and balcony or patio. Some have gas fireplaces, while all have a DVD Players with movies available for renting (and movie rentals come with free popcorn). There's a heated indoor pool, a spa, and this fabulous beach is lit at night. Rooms sleep anywhere from two, four to six - including a deluxe fireplace suite. Gift certificates are available, and they offer special occasion packages as well. To make a reservation and see a virtual tour of the rooms, visit our website at www.dsandsmotel.com. 171 S.W. Highway 101. 800-527-3925.

 

Inn At Spanish Head, Lincoln City. It's Lincoln City’s only resort hotel built right on the beach with all oceanfront rooms - nestled against a rugged cliffside overlooking a soft, sandy beach. Enjoy dining in the penthouse restaurant and bar - whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a candlelight dinner. They offer an array of seafood specialties, juicy steaks and other Northwest favorites, including a decadent Sunday buffet. Rooms range from bedrooms to studios to one-bedroom suites with microwaves and refrigerators to full kitchens. Hotel amenities include wi-fi, spa, saunas, exercise room and a year-round heated swimming pool. Kids will love the game room and easy beach access. Full-service conference and meeting rooms for that inspirational retreat; extensive, gorgeous wedding possibilities. Near the south end of Lincoln City at 4009 SW Highway 101. 1-800-452-8127 or 541-996-2161. www.spanishhead.com

 

Weiss' Paradise Suites & Vacation Rentals - Seaside

Unique Luxury Accommodations in Seaside. 1BR Suites, 1BR & 2BR Duplex Units and 3BR Houses, units for 2-8 people. Rent our entire property for 20-26. All units close to beach, river and Broadway St.
Suites are designed for two adults; vacation rental units for families. All units have kitchen and many have fireplace, deck and jetted tub. Enjoy comfy robes & slippers, luxury bath amenities, quality linens and more. See us on The Travel Channel's "Great Escapes" show in August 2006. 741 S. Downing St., Seaside. 800-738-6691. www.SeasideSuites.com

 

RELATED STORIES

Top Oregon Coast Tourism Stories of 2006 Strange fish, big storms, paranormal articles and plenty of natural fun topped the list

Stunning Storm Watch Spots on Oregon's Coast Tips for some stunning viewing of the wild waves of the season

Glass Float Giveaway Begins on Central Oregon Coast Newport starts its glass float extravaganza, with numerous other wonders

Day or Night Mysteries and Merriment on Oregon Coast It's more than just nightlife that comes to life, but the beaches offer major opportunities

Sampling Wines and Wine Bars on the Oregon Coast Wine shops and wine bars are a growing part of coastal tourism

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NEWPORT
Time-tripping Nye Beach, a bustling bayfront, marine science-central and two lighthouses

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