My husband and I have a long-standing tradition of escaping to the Oregon coast and spending time in Newport. It started when our girls were little and then paused for several years while our family had a beach house, but last week we decided to go back and relive those memories—and make a few new ones.
There is something restorative about stepping away from daily life and reconnecting with the person you’ve shared years with. We’ve been together since I was 19, so revisiting places from our past brings both nostalgia and fresh moments to treasure.
Our favorite place to stay is the Sylvia Beach Hotel. It’s a charming, slightly quirky retreat for readers, writers and anyone who appreciates quiet and imagination. The hotel intentionally forgoes TVs, phones and internet so guests can hear the waves, unwind and dive into books or their own thoughts. For us, that simplicity is exactly what a getaway should be.
While luxury resorts have their appeal, the Sylvia Beach Hotel offers an unpretentious, peaceful atmosphere that invites you to slow down. Each room celebrates an author, and over the years we’ve enjoyed staying in several different rooms—each one unique and thoughtfully decorated. It isn’t fancy, but that’s part of its appeal: a comfortable, literary hideaway that feels like a pause from the world.
Part of me almost didn’t want to share this place because it feels like our private refuge, but I love suggesting special spots to others. My only request: don’t take our room when we plan to visit.
Our days were simple and lovely—eating (we enjoyed a fresh salad across the street at April’s), walking on the beach, browsing local shops, sipping coffee and mostly reading and writing. We even bought a piece of art to bring home; collecting artwork from trips has become our tradition, a way to carry memories into everyday life.
I didn’t capture the best view of the hotel from the water, but it truly is a spectacular beachfront property with an impressive ocean outlook. The week treated us to beautiful weather—windy in that coastal way but comfortably warm.
This cozy corner of the upstairs library became my favorite spot for the stay. Overlooking the water, it was the perfect place to work on a big project I’ve been quietly developing. I’m excited about it and can’t wait to share more soon—thank you for indulging my secret a little while longer.
Do you have a special getaway of your own? I’d love to hear about it—share your favorite escape and what makes it meaningful to you.