The Oregon Coast is known for its rugged shoreline, seaside cliffs, and charming coastal towns. But, the Oregon Coast is also home to several historic lighthouses that bring in thousands of visitors each year. These lighthouses have played an essential role in our maritime history and have been guiding ships since the 19th century.
The infamous Tillamook Rock Lighthouse in Seaside is a short drive away from our Seashore Inn on the Beach oceanfront hotel. Seaside is an excellent place to begin or end your journey if you are interested in seeing all of the Oregon Coast lighthouses. Start planning your Oregon road trip today and read on to discover our historic lighthouses!
Tillamook Rock Lighthouse
Tillamook Rock Lighthouse sits atop a sea stack off the coast of Ecola State Park. This lighthouse has quite the reputation and is commonly referred to as “Terrible Tilly.” The harsh location brought many challenges and devasting stories during its 70-year history. Although it is inaccessible today, you can still see great views of the lighthouse from the Tillamook Head Trail, just 10 minutes from our Seaside oceanfront hotel.
Cape Meares Lighthouse
Even though Cape Meares is the shortest of the Oregon Coast lighthouses, it is still an impressive sight. The lighthouse is also a fantastic place for a hike as you spot birds and whales.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse
Yaquina Head is Oregon’s tallest lighthouse standing at an impressive 93 feet, and is still used by The Coast Guard. They hope to reopen their tours soon, so visitors can experience the working Fresnel lens and climb the winding stairs to the top.
Five miles from this lighthouse, you can also visit Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, the only historic wooden lighthouse still standing in Oregon!
Heceta Head Lighthouse
Heceta Head Lighthouse is a picturesque beacon atop the 1,000 foot high Heceta Head. The original lightkeepers house is now used as a bed and breakfast where visitors can stay overnight and experience what lighthouse life is like for themselves.
Umpqua River Lighthouse
This lighthouse is an excellent place to learn about local history since there is an on-site museum with artifacts and stories from the past. There are also tours available to climb the stairs and witness the incredible ocean views from the top.
Cape Blanco Lighthouse
Cape Blanco is home to the oldest standing lighthouse in the state and is located on the westernmost tip of Oregon. The view of the Pacific Ocean from this lighthouse 256 feet above sea level is breathtaking!
Honorable Mentions: Cape Arago Lighthouse, Coquille River Lighthouse, and Pelican Bay Lighthouse.
An Oregon Coast Lighthouse Road Trip
Whether you want to visit just a few of the Oregon coast lighthouses or see them all, Seaside is the best place to begin or end your trip. Experience the history and storied past of the historic lighthouses that dot our coast. Stay with us at The Seashore Inn on the Beach, and call us at 503-738-6368 if you have any questions about your Oregon vacation.