**This post was updated July 23rd, 2024**

What better way to map out the perfect road trip than to drive along the Oregon Coast and catch all of the lighthouses? From Astoria in the north to Brookings in the south, there are a total of eleven Oregon lighthouses in existence today.

A few of them are off limits to visitors, but can still be seen and appreciated from a distance.  A good rule of thumb is to spend 3 to 5 days on this road trip if you want to see them all. Three days if you want to stop briefly at each site, up to five days if you really want to get the full experience of taking your time to visit them all, with perhaps other stops along the way.

Each lighthouse carries its own story, representing not just nautical history but also the resilience of the coastal community. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the 11 lighthouses of the Oregon Coast, exploring their unique features, historical significance, and opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone who loves a great coastal view, these lighthouses are a must-see on your next adventure.

Today, lighthouses aren’t so much used as a practical means for ships to know when they’re approaching land, or to warn sailors of the infamous jagged Oregon coastline. Modern technology has made the concept of the lighthouse obsolete. But they are beautiful testaments to life at sea during the last two centuries. A few of them are still actually in use.

Oregon Coast Lighthouses – Romance in Motion

Nothing is more romantic and picturesque than meandering down the winding Pacific Highway 101, surveying the inspiring panorama of the Pacific Ocean, than rounding a bend and catching sight of a magnificent lighthouse with a storied past.

I have listed the lighthouses in order, from north to south. Of course, if you’re coming from California, you’ll be going the other way. All of these lighthouses are beautiful and are very much worth visiting and/or stopping to catch a glimpse and take photos.

Tillamook Rock – “Terrible Tilly”

Location and History

Perched on a rocky islet off the coast of Tillamook, the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse is one of the most iconic lighthouses in Oregon. Built in 1881, it’s often referred to as “Terrible Tilly” due to the fierce storms that frequently batter the rock. This lighthouse was operational until 1957 and is now a beloved piece of Oregon’s maritime history.

Unique Features

While you can’t tour the lighthouse directly, its dramatic silhouette against the crashing waves makes it a popular subject for photographers. The 133-foot tower, built from granite, stands tall and proud, serving as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who maintained it.

Visiting Tips

Although the lighthouse itself isn’t open to the public, you can enjoy stunning views from Ecola State Park nearby. Bring your camera, as the vantage point offers one of the best perspectives of this majestic structure

 

Cape Mears Lighthouse

Location and History

Located within the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, this charming lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1890. Standing at just 38 feet, it’s one of the shortest lighthouses on the Oregon Coast, but its distinctive design and vibrant white and red color make it easily recognizable.

Tours and Accessibility

Yes! Cape Meares Lighthouse is open for tours, allowing visitors to climb to the top and take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The glass Fresnel lens, which has been fully restored, adds a touch of elegance to the experience.

Nearby Attractions

Don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding area, where you can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and the stunning Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge, home to various seabirds and marine life.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Location and History

Yaquina Head Lighthouse stands proudly at the entrance to Yaquina Bay in Newport. Built in 1873, it is one of the tallest lighthouses in Oregon, reaching 93 feet into the sky. Its light can be seen for 19 miles, making it a crucial guide for mariners.

Unique Features

This lighthouse is still an active navigational aid, which means it’s not only a historical site but also a functioning one! Visitors can tour the lighthouse and witness the remarkable lens system that helps boats safely navigate the coast.

Visitor Experience

When you visit, be sure to explore the surrounding area, which includes tide pools and fascinating marine environments. The nearby Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area offers interpretive programs and stunning coastal views, perfect for those who love to explore nature.

 

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

Location and History

Nestled near the mouth of Yaquina Bay, this lighthouse has a unique claim to fame—it’s the only lighthouse built on the Oregon coast to have been constructed inland. Erected in 1871, the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is smaller at just 51 feet tall.

Tours and Accessibility

Though no longer an active lighthouse, it is well preserved and open for tours. You can climb to the top for picturesque views of the bay and the surrounding coastal landscape.

Additional Features

The lighthouse is a historic site, with artifacts and exhibits on maritime history, making it an educational stop for visitors. Don’t forget to check out the nearby marina, where you can enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries.

Cleft of the Rock – Cape Perpetua

Location and History

The Cleft of the Rock Lighthouse can be found nestled within the scenic landscapes near Cape Perpetua. Built in 1896, this lighthouse played a vital role in guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Oregon Coast. It is privately owned.

Unique Features

While the Cleft of the Rock Lighthouse isn’t a traditional lighthouse, its unique placement and the surrounding cliffs make it a fascinating site. It’s a great place for photographing nature’s beauty in combination with historical architecture.

Experience

Visitors typically enjoy hiking in the area, where they can observe the rugged coastline and the dramatic cliffs that surround the lighthouse. Be sure to bring your binoculars to spot local wildlife, including sea lions and various seabirds.

Haceta Head

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this lighthouse also is a bed and breakfast, and a popular place to get hitched.

Location and History

Located 13 miles south of Yachats, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States. Built in 1894, it stands 56 feet tall and boasts one of the brightest lights on the coast.

Tours and Accessibility

Yes! You can tour Heceta Head Lighthouse. Climb the 119 steps to the top and enjoy sweeping views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The lighthouse is still operational, adding to its charm as a working navigation point.

Unique Elements

The Heceta Head Lighthouse Keeper’s House has been transformed into a charming bed and breakfast, offering a unique overnight experience for those wanting to bask in the beauty of the Oregon Coast.

Umpqua River Lighthouse

Location and History

The Umpqua River Lighthouse, located in Winchester Bay, is known for its striking red and white stripes. Built in 1894, it serves as a historical reminder of the maritime significance of the Umpqua River.

Touring Opportunities

The lighthouse is accessible for tours, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and enjoy scenic views from the top.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting, take the time to explore the surrounding area, where you can find excellent opportunities for fishing, crabbing, and enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.

Cape Arago Lighthouse

Location and History

Cape Arago Lighthouse is nestled within the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, standing guard over the shores since 1866. Although it is no longer an active lighthouse, it remains a significant historical landmark.

Unique Features

While you cannot tour the lighthouse, the view from the surrounding cliffs is spectacular. Hikers can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the rugged coastline and diverse marine life.

Experience

The nearby tide pools provide a chance to observe unique sea creatures in their natural habitat. It’s a perfect spot for families and nature lovers alike—don’t forget your camera!

Coquille River Lighthouse

Location and History

The Coquille River Lighthouse, situated in Bandon, was built in 1896 and is unique for its picturesque, romantic design. Though it was decommissioned in 1939, it remains a well-loved landmark along the coast.

Visiting the Lighthouse

Currently, the lighthouse is closed for tours, but the surrounding area is open for exploration, including beautiful walking paths along the river and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Additional Features

Bandon offers a charming coastal town experience, with shops and restaurants serving up fresh seafood and local crafts. It’s a wonderful place to relax after visiting the lighthouse.

Cape Blanco Lighthouse

Location and History

Cape Blanco Lighthouse, located on the southern coast of Oregon, is the oldest lighthouse in the state, completed in 1870. Standing at 59 feet tall, it is known for its striking white tower.

Tours and Accessibility

You can tour the lighthouse, which is still an active navigational aid today. Climb the steps to enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and the breathtaking coastal landscape.

Unique Features

The area around Cape Blanco is also known for its rich history, including scenic hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and opportunities to see local wildlife.

Pelican Bay Lighthouse

Location and History

The Pelican Bay Lighthouse is located in Brookings is Oregon’s newest lighthouse. First lit in 1999, this lighthouse is unique because it is privately owned and you can stay the night here!

Accessibility for Tourists

The lighthouse is not open for tours, but its beautiful setting makes it a popular sight for photographers and nature lovers.

Experience and Surroundings

The surrounding area offers lovely beaches and tide pools, making it a great spot for family outings or a peaceful day by the sea.

All eleven lighthouses span out along the entire Oregon coast, with Cape Meares and Yaquina Head lighthouses being the furthest apart, at roughly a 2-hour drive. 

Lighthouses of Oregon Coast Map

 

The lighthouses of the Oregon Coast are more than just beacons; they are symbols of history, perseverance, and beauty. Each lighthouse offers unique experiences, whether you’re taking in the spectacular views, exploring the rich maritime history, or simply enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. These majestic structures provide travelers with a glimpse into the past and invite all to appreciate the natural wonders of the Oregon coast.

As you plan your next adventure along this breathtaking coastline, don’t forget to include these iconic lighthouses on your itinerary. They promise to deliver unforgettable memories and perhaps a little magic, too.