Recently I spent a picturesque day driving up and down Oregon’s Central Coast. The weather was perfect, none of my stops were overly crowded, and the evening sun was radiant.
Oregon’s Central Coast is full of things to see, like sea lions and other aquatic life, lighthouses that have seen the centuries go by, and even miles of sand dunes! From rugged cliffs to pristine beaches, from charming coastal towns to lush forests, this coastal paradise has it all.
All of these locations are dog friendly as long as they are kept on a leash, and the majority of these hikes feature difficulty levels that are suitable for most folks. A note: I did these locations out of order, first going from Cape Perpetua to The Hobbit Trail before doubling back to the tidepools at Strawberry Hill Wayside, and ending up at Heceta Head Lighthouse for sunset. All of these locations are within a 40-minute drive down Oregon’s Central Coast.
Before diving into this one, consider viewing the prints for purchase from this trip! Now fasten your seatbelt, put on your exploring hat, and let’s dive into the beauty that awaits you along Oregon’s Central Coast!
Stop #1: Scenic Cape Perpetua in the Siuslaw National Forest
Are dogs allowed at Cape Perpetua?
Yes, dogs are allowed and must be kept on a leash
Is there a fee for parking at Cape Perpetua?
Yes, if parking at the top to access the rock shelter and Captain Cook Trail, there is a $5 day use fee. This fee station only accepts cash.
Is Cape Perpetua a good hiking place for kids?
Absolutely! The trails at the top are very easy and well-maintained. However, I would recommend hopping back in the family car after seeing the rock shelter and driving down to the lower area to access the Visitor Center. There is a trail that heads down there from the top, but it is steep.
Location of the Cape Perpetua trails
Nestled between the charming towns of Yachats and Florence, this coastal headland offers a plethora of breathtaking sights, fascinating stories, and outdoor activities that will captivate nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. So, let’s dive into the history and explore the remarkable sights of Cape Perpetua Oregon.
Cape Perpetua stands high above Oregon’s Central Coast, some 800 feet above sea level! The hiking trails are fairly short at the top. One such trail leads to a rock shelter that shares a bit of history about the land, the original Native American settlers, and an unparalleled view of Oregon’s rocky coastline.
The history of Cape Perpetua on Oregon’s Central Coast
The history of Cape Perpetua dates back centuries, with evidence of Native American presence in the area for thousands of years. The Alsea Tribe, known for its intricate basket weaving and sustainable fishing practices, inhabited these lands long before European settlers arrived.
In the late 18th century, explorers and fur traders began venturing to the Oregon Coast. Captain James Cook, the famed British explorer, sailed past Cape Perpetua in 1778 and named it after the Latin word “perpetuus,” meaning “everlasting.” The cape served as a prominent landmark for mariners navigating along the treacherous coastline. For more on Captain Cook’s voyages and adventures, make sure to stop by the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center.
Popular hiking trails at Cape Perpetua
Speaking of Capt. Cook, the Captain Cook Trail is an ideal starting point for beginners or those seeking a leisurely stroll amidst nature’s beauty.
This short and well-maintained trail stretches for approximately 0.8 miles, leading you through lush coastal rainforest to a picturesque ocean overlook.
The trail is relatively flat and boasts stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. This trail starts at the upper parking lot.
Cook’s Ridge Trail will be more moderate in difficulty. For those looking for a slightly longer hike with a touch of moderate difficulty, the Giant Spruce Trail is an excellent choice.
This 1.1-mile loop trail takes you through a lush forest adorned with ancient trees, eventually leading to the awe-inspiring Giant Spruce, a colossal Sitka spruce estimated to be over 500 years old.
The trail has some gentle inclines and is well-maintained, providing an enchanting experience for hikers of all ages.
Stop #2: The Hobbit Trail
Are dogs allowed on the Hobbit Trail and Hobbit Beach?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the trail and the beach but must be kept on a leash at all times
Is there a fee to park at the Hobbit Beach Trailhead?
No, there is no fee. However, the parking lot for this trailhead is across the street and TINY. Many visitors that arrive in the late morning or mid-day will find themselves looking for parking on sand patches on the side of the road. This hike has gained significant popularity in recent years, so plan to get there early to enjoy this one at your own pace.
Is The Hobbit Trail a kid-friendly hike?
To the beach, absolutely. It’s only a half-mile trek down a moderate elevation drop. Make sure the kids save some energy for the hike back up though! I saw many families on this hike, all seemingly having the time of their lives on the hike and in the tide pools nearby.
Location: Florence, Oregon
The Hobbit Trail near Florence, Oregon is a hidden gem that captures the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Tucked away in the lush Siuslaw National Forest, this enchanting trail leads adventurers through a magical journey reminiscent of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, kind of.
Things to see on the Hobbit Trail
The trail features several places where a canopy of trees, plants, and vines cover the trail. The trail itself is a mixture of light soil and sand, and in some places, flowers and white shells placed by hikers line the trail.
The Hobbit Trail begins its mystical journey at the Heceta Head Lighthouse, a picturesque beacon standing proudly on Oregon’s rugged coastline. From there, it meanders through a dense forest, revealing hidden alcoves, charming bridges, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. The trail eventually emerges onto a breathtaking sandy shoreline, offering hikers stunning panoramic views of the vast Pacific Ocean.
Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of my absolute favorite lighthouses in Oregon! It’s well-maintained and features a bed and breakfast in some of the old keeper’s quarters. The light still works in this lighthouse, and the rocky cliffs it rises from are filled with character and wonder.
Stop #3: Strawberry Hill Wayside
This one really isn’t a hike, but rather a quick pulloff from Highway 101. It’s located just south of Thor’s Well in Yachats. Thor’s Well is another excellent hike for the whole family, and the water spout is certainly something to behold. As I’ve seen it before, I skipped it this time to check out Strawberry Hill.
Things to see at Strawberry Hill Wayside
Strawberry Hill Wayside is known for its vast tidepools that span several hundred feet of the coastline. The rocky tidepools are a little difficult to see from the highway, so it’s no wonder that this location is a little less popular than others. However, the pools are teeming with life including anemones, crabs, mussels, and dense underwater gardens.
This was meant to be a quick stop, but the diving case for my Insta360 X3 wasn’t fastening securely. I decided to risk it and immediately regretted that decision! I bumped the camera on an underwater rock, causing the charge port to pop open. The camera went berserk! I quickly brought it out of the water and retreated back to the 4Runner. I placed the camera in front of the vents with the AC on full blast. Luckily, the camera soon returned to room temperature and dried out, functioning normally again after several minutes. Phew!
Strawberry Hill Wayside is a rock hound’s paradise
If you’re visiting Strawberry Hill Wayside, plan to spend 20-30 minutes traversing the tide pools before moving on to your next destination. Agate hunters might also find a paradise here, with jasper, petrified wood, fossil shells, and other interesting rocks also present. If you’re into rocks, double that time at Strawberry Hill Wayside!
Stop #4: Heceta Beach and Heceta Head Lighthouse
Location of Heceta Beach and Heceta Head Lighthouse:
Just north of Florence, Oregon
Are dogs allowed on Heceta Beach and around Heceta Head Lighthouse?
Yes, dogs are welcome here as well, as long as they are kept on a leash.
Is the Heceta Head Lighthouse Trail ok for kids?
Yes, the trail is gradual from the parking lot and beach, with only moderate elevation gain, and it’s paved.
Is there a fee to park at Heceta Beach?
No, there is no fee, and the beach is open until sundown.
History and information about Heceta Head Lighthouse
The Heceta Head Lighthouse, often referred to as the “Queen of the Oregon Coast,” was constructed in 1892. Its location, atop a towering headland that overlooks the mighty Pacific Ocean, was chosen due to the treacherous nature of the coastline. The construction of the lighthouse aimed to guide ships safely through the hazardous waters of the area, helping to prevent shipwrecks and protect sailors navigating the coast.
The Heceta Head Lighthouse is a crown jewel of Oregon’s Central Coast. Situated on the rocky cliffs just north of Florence, the lighthouse is a fascinating historical landmark. The lighthouse has captured the imagination of visitors for over a century.
What was Heceta Head Lighthouse used for?
The primary purpose of the Heceta Head Lighthouse was to serve as a navigational aid for mariners, guiding them safely along the Oregon coast.
The lighthouse’s powerful beam, which could be seen up to 21 miles away, acted as a beacon in the night, warning ships of the rocky shores and treacherous waters.
The lighthouse was also equipped with a distinctive fog signal, which emitted a deep, resonant blast during periods of reduced visibility. This feature proved vital in assisting vessels during foggy conditions, enhancing the safety of maritime travel in the region.
Beyond its practical function, the Heceta Head Lighthouse holds significant historical value. It stands as a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of the engineers and workers who built it, showcasing the architectural and engineering marvels of the late 19th century.
Today, the lighthouse serves as a popular tourist attraction, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the allure of a bygone era.
Getting to Heceta Head Lighthouse
The parking lot for the Heceta Head Lighthouse is conveniently located off Highway 101, approximately 13 miles north of Florence, Oregon. Look for the signs indicating the entrance to the parking area, where you can safely leave your vehicle.
From the parking lot, follow the marked trail that leads you toward the lighthouse. The trail winds its way through a lush coastal forest, offering glimpses of the breathtaking ocean views along the way. The walk is approximately half a mile long, providing ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
As you approach the end of the trail, the iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse will gradually come into view. The sight of the majestic structure perched atop the headland is truly awe-inspiring and well worth the journey. Take your time to appreciate the lighthouse’s architectural beauty and capture the perfect photograph to commemorate your visit.
Details about Heceta Beach
Heceta Beach features a tributary that dumps into the Pacific Ocean from under a bridge rising high above the sand. The beach is calm, less frequented than other Central Oregon Coast beaches, and is absolutely stunning with views of the lighthouse, the rocks, and the plunging coastline cliffs. It’s directly off the parking lot, making it a convenient stop to watch the sunset over the ocean horizon.
Final Thoughts and Tips for Your Drive Down Oregon’s Central Coast
So let’s do a positive-negative-positive sandwich here!
- There are literally hundreds of things to do in just the stretch of the central coastline I drove during my journey, so I’d advise you to do more research if you plan to spend a few days here.
- It’s mosquito season right now in late spring and summer on Oregon’s Central Coast, so make sure to bring the skeeter stick!
- Mo’s Restaurant in Florence is one of my favorite stops along this coastline, so don’t miss it!
For information on Oregon’s North Coast and the efforts of the Trailkeepers to revitalize Cascade Head, check out this recent blog entry. Thanks for being my co-pilot on this drive down Oregon’s Central Coast, and I’ll catch you on the next one!
Hey Andrew, I love the list – I’m going to take a drive this weekend down the coast and I’m looking for some interesting sights. I haven’t heard of the Hobbit trail, I definetly have to check it out. thanks!