If it has been some time since you visited Yaquina Bay near Newport on the Oregon Coast, this may remind you to go back soon. If, like myself until last week, you have never visited Yaquina Bay, you will want to know that no amateur photographer (least of all me), can fully capture the sights.

 

The bay is partly enclosed but does have access to the open sea. Ocean water in the bay is diluted by fresh water from the Yaquina River. It is a protected refuge and there are guides ready to answer your questions.

 

 

I felt as though I was walking into a fairy tale when I first saw the dramatic majesty and architectural beauty of Yaquina Bay.

The estuary is haven for thousands of sea birds and herons. Fat Harbor Seals loll on the rugged rocks and, when we were there, pups played in nearby pools.

 

 

Yaquina Bay is an Oregon treasure, a national treasure really. It is almost too much natural beauty to fully absorb in an hour or two and the best spot I have ever seen for exploring tide pools! We are going back for a full day this summer.