Pacific Coast Scenic Byway - Oregon
Oregon Lighthouses, OR

Lighthouses have blended into Oregon's rugged coastal scenery for more than a century. Each has house has a unique look, history, and current use. Call 541-574-3100 for information.

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse:

Built in the 1870s in Cape Cod style, this second oldest lighthouse (on the Oregon coast) is authentically furnished. It is presumably haunted and serves as a museum. It is open daily May-Sept., and on weekends the rest of the year.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse:

This has been called one of the most beautiful lighthouses in America; it also has the tallest tower of all lighthouses on the Oregon coast. It's still in use, but you can visit it for a cost of $2-$5 per person. It is surrounded by trails to tide pools and seabird nesting areas.

Heceta Head Lighthouse:

The strongest on the Oregon coast, it can be seen from 21 miles away. Heceta Head was named for the Spanish explorer who came in 1775. Heceta House (next to the lighthouse) was built in 1893. The assistant lighthouse keepers' house is now a bed and breakfast.

Tillamook Rock Lighthouse:

The only privately-owned Oregon lighthouse, it sits 1.2 miles offshore and is used as a columbarium (a storage for ashes of the deceased). You can't get to it, but you can see it from Tillamook Head.

Cape Meares Lighthouse:

This light has the shortest tower on the Oregon coast-38 feet. It's a great place to view sea lions and seabirds. It is open daily May-Sept., and on weekends during Oct., March, and April. No fee.

Umpqua River Lighthouse:

The original structure fell into the river in 1861 because the sand under its foundation eroded. The current structure is identical to the Heceta Head Lighthouse and overlooks the beach's sand dunes. It costs $1 for adults and children under 11 are free.

Cape Arago Lighthouse:

This lighthouse has a unique foghorn. It is not open to the public, but you can get good views of it from Sunset Bay State Park.

Coquille River Lighthouse:

Unique for its octagonal house, this light serves as an interpretive center. It is open year-round during daylight hours. Tours include the tower watch room.

Cape Blanco Lighthouse:

Cape Blanco is the oldest lighthouse on the Oregon coast. It stands above a highly-rated wildlife viewing area.