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Newport should have been simple. A quick overnight stop before continuing down the coast. Instead, it became the most chaotic part of the entire trip.
After checking into The Landing at Newport, we went to dinner at Lucky Thai Elephant. Within minutes of sitting down, I could hear the car alarm going off. Tilly was in the car, most likely trying to nap. Instead she was dealing with a full-blown noise situation that she absolutely did not sign up for.
Kira ran out to handle it, came back, and said everything was fine. Less than a minute later, it was going off again. What followed was a cycle of going back and forth, replacing the battery in the key fob, and calling Budget customer service, which provided no actual solutions. Their suggestion was that we drive to Eugene in the dark and rain to swap out the car. We immediately declined.
An auto shop eventually told us to leave the key fob in the car and use the valet key. This would have been helpful if the valet key locked all the doors. It did not. So, we were forced to choose between a car alarm going off all night or leaving the car unlocked and trusting Tilly as security. Neither option was ideal, but we made it work.
The next morning, breakfast at Arr Place completely shifted our mood. It felt like walking into someone’s home, complete with personality, rules, and the best biscuit we have ever had. It was chaotic in the best way and exactly what you hope to find in a small coastal town. Everything is cooked from scratch and the best part is they expect you to eat desert first.
We made our way to Thor’s Well, where one wave crash was enough for Tilly to decide we were done. Safety Supervisor Tilly does not take risks and decided immediately to return to the car. Once she was settled, we explored and were treated to an amazing show of the waves. Thor’s Well is best at high tide so be sure to check the tide charts before you go.
We continued to the Sea Lion Caves, which were impressive but lived up to every warning about the smell. It was a unique experience, but one we would not necessarily repeat.
By the time we reached Bandon, we were ready for something easy, and Bandon delivered. The Best Western was surprisingly great, and the beach at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint was one of the most beautiful we had seen. We stayed long enough to see sunset and it was incredible!
Tilly refused to walk down the grated stairs and had to be carried, which felt very on brand. Once on the beach, we were surrounded by dramatic rock formations and tide pools full of starfish. It was stunning, but also came with the usual reminder that not every dog should be off leash just because they can be.
Dinner at Angelo’s Italy wrapped the day perfectly, with great food, a cozy atmosphere, and Tilly being treated like she belonged there.
** Written by Emily
