Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse


Tour a whitewashed wonder by the sea that has been providing warning signals to ocean-going vessels for more than 100 years.

Heceta Head Lighthouse is a 19th-century maritime landmark perched 206 feet (63 metres) above the Pacific Ocean. The tall whitewashed tower first went into service in 1894. Today see its powerful automated beacon still keeping constant vigil over the waters off Oregon's coastline.

After more than a century of service, the lighthouse closed in 2011 for restoration work. Storm damage, disuse and years of sea spray threatened to consign it to history. Nearly 2 years later the building reopened, looking much as it would have when it first went into operation. Compare today’s appearance to photos from its past.

Learn more about the lighthouse’s history when you go on one of the free guided tours. Admire the architectural beauty inside and out, and note the smart interior brickwork, which is original to the building. Other original features include the wood floor of the workroom. Go up to the watchroom and see the gears that drive the lens. The lighthouse's beam can be seen 21 miles (34 kilometres) from land.

Heceta Head Lighthouse is located at the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint. Following your tour, investigate more of this state park via the trails that run from the lighthouse. If you feel like a challenging hike, take the 2-mile (3.2-kilometre) section of the Oregon Coast Trail on the north side of the tower. The path is steep and winding and leads to viewing points before dropping down to a small beach.

Look for coastal wildlife, including seals and sea lions that occasionally rest on the rocks. The best time to see migrating grey whales and migratory birds here is during the spring and early summer.

Heceta Head Lighthouse is 12 miles (19 kilometres) north of the coastal city of Florence. Tours are conducted year-round, subject to weather conditions and staff availability. Purchase a day-use parking permit from a machine at the park and join a tour for free.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Heceta Lighthouse B&B

Heceta Lighthouse B&B

2 out of 5
92072 U.S. 101, Florence, OR
Heceta Lighthouse B&B
Driftwood Shores Resort And Conference Center

Driftwood Shores Resort And Conference Center

3 out of 5
88416 1st Ave, Florence, OR
Driftwood Shores Resort And Conference Center
Cottage by the Sea ~ Ocean Front

Cottage by the Sea ~ Ocean Front

Yachats, Oregon
Cottage by the Sea ~ Ocean Front
Adobe Resort

Adobe Resort

3 out of 5
1555 Highway 101, Yachats, OR
Adobe Resort
Beautiful Dog-Friendly Home on the Lake - Great Views & Private Dock

Beautiful Dog-Friendly Home on the Lake - Great Views & Private Dock

Florence, OR
Beautiful Dog-Friendly Home on the Lake - Great Views & Private Dock
Beach Front Any Closer to the Ocean and You'd Need a Wetsuit - Whales Watch

Beach Front Any Closer to the Ocean and You'd Need a Wetsuit - Whales Watch

Florence, OR
Beach Front Any Closer to the Ocean and You'd Need a Wetsuit - Whales Watch
A Retro A-Frame within walking distance of Heceta Beach -.Anchor's A-Way:

A Retro A-Frame within walking distance of Heceta Beach -.Anchor's A-Way:

Florence, OR
A Retro A-Frame within walking distance of Heceta Beach -.Anchor's A-Way:
Florence oceanfront escape, where cozy meets coastal charm

Florence oceanfront escape, where cozy meets coastal charm

Florence, OR
Florence oceanfront escape, where cozy meets coastal charm
Travelodge by Wyndham Florence

Travelodge by Wyndham Florence

2.5 out of 5
1084 Coast Highway 101, Florence, OR
Travelodge by Wyndham Florence
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Heceta Head Lighthouse

At Heceta Head Lighthouse, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking along scenic trails, walking to the picturesque lighthouse, and fishing in the nearby waters. Don't miss the ultimate Heceta Head adventure, which includes an evening hike and exploring the back trail. For a relaxing break, there's a picnic area perfect for unwinding while taking in the stunning coastal views.

Shopping

At Heceta Head Lighthouse, you'll find charming local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Old Town Florence, about 8.1km away, where you can explore delightful boutiques and artisan stores filled with coastal treasures.

Recreation

Enjoy a round at Ocean Dunes Golf Links, where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful coastal scenery while playing golf. For a more tranquil experience, South Jetty County Park offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation and unwinding amidst nature’s beauty.

Adventure

The Hobbit Trailhead, located 435m from Heceta Head Lighthouse, offers scenic hiking through lush forests and stunning coastal views. For a thrilling experience, visit Sand Master Park, 5.6km away, where you can enjoy sandboarding. Alternatively, the John Dellenback Dunes Trail, 2.5km away, provides more hiking adventures amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

In Florence, Oregon, the vibrant nightlife around Heceta Head Lighthouse features cozy beachside pubs like The Bridgewater Restaurant and Pub, offering live music and local brews, while the nearby Old Town is alive with charming shops and relaxed bars perfect for a laid-back evening stroll.

Find the best attractions near Heceta Head Lighthouse

The Heceta Head Lighthouse, a tall and iconic structure, is a must-visit for those seeking adventure and stunning coastal views. Explore the surrounding beach and nearby caves, or enjoy the natural beauty of Heceta Head State Park. This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a mix of relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.

  • Sea Lion Caves: Nestled a mile from Heceta Head Lighthouse, Sea Lion Caves is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Experience the thrill of observing wild sea lions in their natural habitat while exploring the stunning coastal cliffs and caves. The outdoor adventure vibes make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
  • Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park: Just 1.6km away, this state park offers a perfect blend of adventure and scenic beauty. With miles of hiking trails, lush forests, and breathtaking views of the coastline, it's an ideal spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  • Roosevelt Beach: Located three miles from the lighthouse, Roosevelt Beach boasts soft sands and tranquil waves. It's a perfect spot to unwind, stroll along the shore, or enjoy a picnic with stunning ocean views.

Best time to go to Heceta Head Lighthouse

The best time to visit Heceta Head Lighthouse can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Heceta Head Lighthouse falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Heceta Head Lighthouse falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January45.3°F (7.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February44.8°F (7.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March46.2°F (7.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.1°F (9.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June57.4°F (14.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.2°F (16.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.1°F (12.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November48.6°F (9.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December44.4°F (6.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Heceta Head Lighthouse

To save money on your visit to Heceta Head Lighthouse, consider travelling between December and February, when accommodation prices are lower compared to the summer months. Aim to book your stay on a Wednesday for the best rates, and use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by sorting prices from lowest to highest. Look for eco-certified options for sustainable choices. Additionally, you can save further by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Heceta Head Lighthouse are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Heceta Head Lighthouse is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Heceta Head Lighthouse is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and various other criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels at the outset. Additionally, you have the option to narrow your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Heceta Head Lighthouse hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.