For travelers searching for budget-friendly seaside lodging, The Waves Hotel in Newport, Oregon will check off those boxes. Located mere blocks from the historic Nye Beach district, select rooms offer ocean views, while the hotel is located a short walk to the ocean. My multigenerational family gives this Oregon coast hotel six thumbs up — read on to see all the reasons why.
Late last fall, while my daughter and her family still lived in Oregon, we planned one last road trip to the Oregon coast, selecting Newport, a new-to-me coastal town. Traveling with two kids and four adults, we wanted lodging that was budget-friendly for both families, yet we didn’t want to sacrifice an oceanside experience (minus the typical expensive price tag). We checked all those boxes when we discovered The Waves Hotel, part of the OYO Hotels Brand.
Arrival at The Waves Hotel, Newport, Oregon
If you’ve never visited this seaside town, add it to your list. Our rainy October visit was typical northwestern weather, yet this charming town definitely perked us up. We drove through the town to the edge, past Nye Beach district, near the ocean to check into The Waves Hotel. This Newport Oregon hotel resembles a nautically-themed apartment complex — and reminds me of classic roadside hotels from my family road trips back in the 70s.
The reception desk and lobby were located between the hotel buildings and the pool, at the first turn into the hotel complex. We arrived late afternoon, just as the sun was setting, and the receptionist was at the ready. COVID restrictions were still in place including limited front desk hours and mask mandates inside buildings. Our check-in was smooth without a hitch.
We were handed a map and guided to our separate buildings. My daughter’s friend’s room was located directly across from the reception, while ours was located in a back building with a partial ocean view.
The receptionist noted that due to COVID the normally complimentary hot breakfast available was limited to other complimentary take-out options, such as yogurt, fruit cups, cereal, etc. She also motioned a few steps away to another option for travelers: a laundry room.
The sunroom was not open, due to COVID, but did usually offer seating during the free continental breakfast, as well as complimentary board games to take to your room.
In addition, OYO Waves Hotel Newport, also welcomes two dogs up to 30 lbs for an additional fee of $10 per pet, per night. However, dogs may not be left unattended in rooms. Cats are not permitted. There is a designated pet relief area with a waste station on the property, between the lodging buildings and indoor pool.
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Accommodations at The Waves Hotel
Although there is an elevator, it was out of order when we checked in back in October. I shared a room with my daughter, her husband, and my granddaughter, It was located on the third floor, which was a bit of a hike hauling our luggage and coolers, but we managed. The room was light and airy with bright colors and a million-dollar partial view of the ocean. With three of us in one room, the sink separate from the bathroom and toilet was much appreciated for private time when needed.
My daughter’s friend and her 5-year-old’s room didn’t opt for an ocean view but did get a glimpse of the ocean waves between buildings across the main street into the Nye Beach district.
Choose from King or double queen accommodations. All rooms included coffee makers, small refrigerators, microwaves, and a small dining table and work area. The WiFi was free with a strong signal.
Amenities at The Waves Hotel
Besides the prime location near the ocean, the pool was another big reason we chose this Newport hotel because the grandkids gotta have a pool! The indoor pool includes a sauna and hot tub – and plenty of room to roam. Add in free WiFi, the laundry facility, complimentary breakfast, the budget-friendly price tag, and this hotel is perfect for family vacations and an escape to the Oregon coast.
Things to do in Newport, Oregon
So much to do, so little time — that was our mantra when we visited Newport for a short 2-night, weekend family vacation. Literally, the 12-block historic Nye Beach district is a short 5-7 minute walk from the hotel. The area offers dozens of restaurants, from fine dining to brewpubs, shopping, boutique stores, art galleries — and the best access to the beach.
But there’s more! Newport has it all. This seaside town is home to the two tallest light houses in Oregon. And if you’re into beaches and whale watching, Newport off some of the best beach spots for both. Other attractions in Newport include the Oregon Coast Aquarium, OMSI’s Coastal Discovery Center, Nye Beach, Yaquina Bay Bridge, and too many scenic spots to name them all.
More About the OYO
Not familiar with OYO Hotels Brand? I wasn’t either until I started my search for lodging in Newport. An India-based company synonymous with budget, OYO stands for “On Your Own.” The company operates in more than 800 cities in 80 countries worldwide.
OYO entered the United States market in 2019 in Texas, now with more than budget-friendly 110 OYO Hotels in 200 cities across the U.S. The brand targets underperforming budget hotels and rebrands them, but the appeal is (get ready), depending on location, rates start as low as $39 per night.
OYO’s Waves Hotel was my first experience with this brand, and for travelers looking for affordable accommodations, the OYO brand nailed the budget hotel market in Newport. However, when reading reviews of other OYO franchises, the results are varied. So do your homework and keep in mind paying less also equals getting less.
Book your stay at the OYO Waves Hotel directly on their website, or go through a booking site such as Booking.com or Expedia where you might get a better rate.
Photo Credits: Diana Rowe and OYO Waves Hotel This was not a hosted stay, and the opinions expressed are my own.