The Best Hotels to Book Near Seal Rock, Oregon

When it comes to some hotels, it’s hard to know which is best – staying in or going out. This is just such a place. Hidden away by a wooded cove, everything in the hotel itself is geared around pure comfort, from Egyptian cotton sheets and a pillow menu to free newspapers and a log fire in the lobby. Then there’s its location, right next to a golf course, your own private beach and the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, which practically demands that you hike the half-hour to its picture-perfect lighthouse. Luckily, you don’t have to choose one or the other – just enjoy the best of both.

This cheap and cheerful hotel, with its clapboard buildings, looks a lot like a surf shack – and the comparison isn’t entirely misleading. Located right across from the beach, with ocean-view rooms available at a premium, it’s certainly got the location, and just down the road there’s a surf shop in case you want to take your chances on those legendary Oregon breaks. If all that sounds too taxing, you can simply enjoy the pool, hot tub and sauna, or kick back in your room with free cable and DVD rentals.

Want to feel as if you live on the Oregon Coast, even if just for a few days? Little Creek Cove is a group of one- and two-bed condos that let you stay right on the beach and keep your own hours. You’ll have your own kitchen, dining and living rooms, the latter with a gas fire, private deck and cozy couches. When you’re ready, Agate Beach is right there outside your door (have a look for the colorful stones that give it its name), while Seal Rock is less than 20 minutes away by car.

This luxury boutique hotel on Nye Beach in Newport fulfils its guests’ holiday fantasies, one by one. Balconies with views out over the Pacific – check. Outdoor infinity spa pool, massage room, complementary weekly wine tastings – check. Then there’s the beach bonfire package, complete with firewood, beach mat and s’mores ingredients, for living out the real American dream. If you’re looking to experience the wildness of the northwest coast in an uber-relaxing environment, this is the choice for you.

A great choice for families, this cheerful motel in Waldport is a mere six minutes by car from Seal Rock. Choose from king, queen, family and pet-friendly rooms – all are clean and tidy and feature wifi, big TVs and desk space. As well as free parking, the inn has free on-site electric car charging. Your hosts are happy to advise on the plentiful activities available nearby.

Just a 15-minute drive from Seal Rock, this gorgeous waterside stay in Newport is a good choice, whether you’re keen to get active on the water or enjoy some pure relaxation. The resort has its own marina, with fishing and leisure boat rentals, and a dedicated crab dock so you can try your hand at catching dinner. Alternatively, just loll in the salty indoor pool, sweat in a private, single-sex sauna or bubble away in the outdoor spa pools.

The Hallmark is a family-run Newport hotel with a traditional sense of hospitality, and the friendly staff are always at pains to ensure that their guests leave satisfied. Every room has stunning views over the wild Pacific, as well as dedicated workspaces, coffee makers and flat-screen HDTVs with Blu-ray players (disc rental included). On those nights when you just want to cuddle up with a movie, Georgie’s Beachside Grill serves great northwestern seaside fare and offers room service.

Another Newport gem, this one has a big plus for parents, as kids under 18 stay free with an adult. It has several other practical plus points, from its free airport shuttle to free parking and in-house laundry. Located right on the beach, it’s also close to the lighthouse, aquarium and ocean tours. It’s a good mid-range option.