Newport is nationally recognized as a vacation destination for amazing food and beer, sandy beaches, the Historical Bayfront and many other unique attractions, but did you know that it‘s also a great place to watch winter storms? Winter visitors are amazed by the spectacular storms that explode out of the ocean and onto the beach and shoreline. These wild acts of nature often occur between November and March, when dark squalls make landfall and release tremendous winds, rain, thunder and even lightening.
Watch the monstrous white-capped tides swell, crest and then roll inland. Framed against a backdrop of ominous black clouds that darken the sky, these pounding breakers gather strength as they steadily surge ashore. Hear the roar of the waves crashing onto the beach and against the rocks, as the thunder cracks between sea and sky and the sideways rain pounds the surf and sand. Stay alert, and you may even see flashes of lightening illuminating the sky, crashing from cloud to cloud or zapping the ocean with tremendous force.
The most exhilarating place to watch winter storms is from the water’s edge, where the wind, waves and rain enhance your experience. If you choose to observe these incredible storms from one of our many local beaches, be sure to bring rain gear and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t stand on or near driftwood or rocks, as they may not be stable and can be easily tossed about or flipped by rapidly moving water. Rough waves can also move inland quickly, so stay above the tide line and establish a safe route away from the beach.
There are also many outdoor vantage points that are above the beach, but still offer all the excitement of being surrounded by the elements. The rock wall of the Nye Beach parking lot is one of those places; it is insulated from the incoming tide, but also exposed to the wind, rain and thunder that accompanies a storm. Or choose from a variety of other outdoor vantage points around Newport that also provide excellent storm-watching opportunities.
You may want to watch the action unfold from one of the many beachfront restaurants that offer panoramic outlooks onto the raging coastline. Enjoy the spectacular show during an amazing seafood meal, or over drinks. You may also want to enjoy the show from the warmth and comfort of your own hotel room, preferably snuggled up in a fluffy chair in front of the window. Fall asleep to the sound of the driving rain, and wake with the pounding surf.
Plan a winter trip to Newport today! No matter where you choose to watch winter storms unfold, the experience is guaranteed to thrill and amaze! Regardless of the season, Newport is always The Edge of a Continent, the Start of an Adventure!