Newport is the Marine Science center for the Pacific NW. Ya, the Aquarium is world class...
But! The Hatfield Marine Sciences of Oregon State University program is one of the top 5 in the USA , and their visitor science center is fantastic. They often have lectures you may be able to audit and are one of the few University programs with ocean-going research vessels. The OSU environmental sciences college is continuing expansion in Newport as well. Checkout their summer camps too.
Oooh...and OMSI just built a science camp right next door too. Check their schedule.
Recently, NOAA relocated their Pacific headquarters to Newport as one of the best deep water ports on the West coast. That impact is being felt in the science community. Checkout their research vessels as they come and go.
One of the famous humpback whale marine biologists now takes tourists out to meet our resident pods. Head to Depot Bay for her tour.
Or join the Marine Discovery Tour right out of Newport, which our high schools use for retreats.
And yes...the Oregon Aquarium has been rated one of the 10 best in the USA, and even hosts sleepovers in the shark tunnel!
Last, many of the State Parks also host rangers and naturalists, so check the schedules.
Tidepool, Birdwatch...just get out there.
Oregon doesn't need an introduction, the online resources for naturalists are immense and the Coast has some of the most amazing and diverse biosystems. Link here to finding tidepools, but there is much more.
The Aquarium
They do way more than show and tell, they are highly active in the science of the coast. Don't need to say much here...just go!
Go on a humpback whale tour with a famed Marine Biologist
Carrie Newell is an energetic whale lover who discovered why Oregon has resident pods of humpback whales who don't migrate. She and her team take you out to get up close in what we found to be the best of the best when it comes to learning about these amazing creatures.
Oregon State Hatfield Marine Sciences
One of the top 5 Marine Biology programs in the USA, the school has a great hands on science center for visitors that is very educational and fun. Best kept secret is their week long summer camps for kids of all ages. Make an underwater robot or learn about mammals. Our son got to do a necropsy on a seal! The school is adding to their campus and research vessel fleet currently.
Marine Discovery Tour
The big boat...these folks do a good job of mixing it up for tourists, teaching along with a great tour that leaves out of Newport at the bayfront.
State naturalists and rangers
Oregon has awesome beauty, nature and State Parks. We are lucky to have many rangers too. Click through to see where some of the interpretive centers and roving rangers may be, particularly Yaquina head, South Beach and even guided kayaking at Brian Booth State Parks. On Saturdays, rangers also teach clamming under the bridge in Waldport. Search online for more as the calendar changes often.