Hecata, Yeah!

Spend the Night at Historic Hecata Lighthouse on the Oregon Coast

You’ll have to travel further afield for this lighthouse gem on the magnificent Oregon Coast, but some things are worth the enlightenment! Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint, located close to the coastal hamlets of Florence and Yachats, is worth a stop and a stayover, if you’ve always wanted to spend the night at a lighthouse perched at a perfectly stunning vantage.

The lighthouse and viewing area is reached via a 0.5-mile moderate hike from the main parking area, from which you can easily access a sublime sheltered beach. As you wind your way up the Hecata Lighthouse Trail, you’ll pass the historic Hecata Lighthouse B&B—the only remaining assistant lightkeeper’s house on the Pacific Coast.

Constructed in 1893, today you can reserve an ocean-view room and imagine yourself as a lighthouse keeper from times gone by. Or just relish a bucket list overnight escape. Even if you only visit the lighthouse, it’s a historic beauty and a premier place for whale watching during migration seasons.

The hiking trail extends beyond the lighthouse on a 7-mile network of forested trail that’s part of the famous Oregon Coast Trail and leads to Washburne Campground. Be sure to have a map and a plan if you opt for this. Otherwise, return the way you came.

Hiking trail is dog-friendly.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Two hikers at Bear Creek Redwoods Regional Preserve on a new trail.

    New Trails at Bear Creek

    Looking for new trails? Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve has added 170 acres of forest, grassland, and historical sites. Hike this 3.5-mile loop through the new addition.

    View
  2. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View
  3. Man hiking up a trail at Montara Mountain, with a view of the Pacific and Grey Whale sand beach in the background

    From Beach to Summit

    No need to decide between a beach and a mountaintop—this hike includes both! Explore the stunning coastal scenery on this 6-mile out-and-back up Montara Mountain and into Rancho Corral de Tierra.

    View
  4. Drake Awakening

    Part salt water, part fresh water, Drake’s Estero is smack in the middle of Point Reyes, and one of only two marine wilderness areas in the entire nation. Yeah, it’s worth a look. Get the extended version by hiking right alongside it.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Legendary Deals!

    There are outlet malls … and then there’s The Outlets at Legends! Located just east of Reno in the neighboring city of Sparks, this open-air entertainment, dining, and shopping destination isn’t just a visit, it’s an experience.

    View
  2. How Do You Après?

    Après all day? Hey, in Reno Tahoe, anything goes! But if you insist on skiing, skating, or snow tubing first—well, of course you do! Reno Tahoe is one of the best places on the planet for snow adventures of all kinds, followed by outdoor firepit gatherings and cozy indoor hideaway respites like these...

    View
  3. Woman walking in the Venice Canals of Los Angeles County

    Canal Contemplations

    With its incense-scented boardwalk, bohemian shops, skateparks, and abundance of body builders, Venice is happily eccentric, and artistic. Exhibit A: Its network of European-style canals with charming bridges, offering a tranquil tour of the town’s history.

    View
  4. Hike A Fall Classic

    Reno hit the jackpot with its well-planned urban trail system, including the Tom Cooke Trail adjacent to the Truckee River, and brilliant in fall.

    View