There really is no other beach quite like Otter Crest. The beach itself measures a measly 1,300 feet, but a lot is packed into that area.
For starters, there are natural attractions: Devils Punchbowl, one of the low-tide treasures of the Oregon coast and a stellar storm watching spot; the large, flat-topped Gull Rock just offshore; tide pools that pockmark the beach; and small caves tucked into cliff walls.
Climb back up to the cliffs to find even more: the Inn at Otter Crest, a complex of condos and vacation rentals complete with a restaurant and bar; the Flying Dutchman Winery, a rarity on the Oregon coast; with Cliffside Coffee and Sweets and the Pura Vida Surf Shop right next door.
Heck, there’s even a Mo’s Seafood and Chowder (though it’s currently closed for renovations).
It’s an embarrassment of riches at Otter Crest, one that’s usually found at towns like nearby Depoe Bay and Newport. While it takes only a few minutes to walk up and down the beach, you could theoretically spend an afternoon, a full day or a whole weekend there.
The area is a mishmash of public and private land, but both the beach and Devils Punchbowl are managed by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department as Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area (don’t confuse it with Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint, which is farther north up the coastline).
Parking areas can fill up quickly, and state park officials warn visitors not to park illegally in the surrounding neighborhood. There are three main parking areas: one at the Devils Punchbowl viewpoint, one just down the road between B and C avenues, and a third off C Avenue between Second and Third streets.
To get down to Otter Crest Beach, walk north on C Avenue a short way to find a beach access point on the left side of the road. A staircase on the north side of the beach leads up to the Inn at Otter Crest and its Spyglass Restaurant (which is currently closed for repairs).
Stopping for an afternoon is nice, but if you want to explore all Otter Crest has to offer, you might as well book a room at the inn and spend a couple of days. Every day, each tide brings a fresh opportunity to explore.
Devils Punchbowl State Natural Site is open daily for day use, located on First Street off Otter Crest Loop about five miles north of Newport. There is no fee for parking. Find more information at stateparks.oregon.gov or 541-265-4560.
