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. Sponsored

    The 2025 Hiking Calendar Is Here!

    Ready to make hiking part of your New Year’s wellness plan? Get the all-new 2025 Hiking Calendar courtesy of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).

    View
  2. Most Peaceful Hike of All

    Is this the most peaceful one-hour hike in the Bay Area? It's got our vote! Lake Lagunitas is the smallest lake in a series of five found on the north side of Mount Tam, so it’s got that tiny but mighty charm. Do a 1.5-mile loop around the lake's shore-hugging trail.

    View
  3. 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
  4. 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

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Animal Encounters

    Located where Redding’s famous Sundial Bridge overlooks the Sacramento River, Turtle Bay Exploration Park is 300 acres of gardens, a museum and playground, aquarium, and unforgettable up-close animal encounters!

    View
  2. Weekend Sherpa Podcast
    Sponsored

    Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  3. Locals' Feature: Max Smith of Moment Skis

    Meet Max Smith, VP of Moment Skis in Reno, Nevada. Moment is the largest ski manufacturer in the US and you can see how their innovative and artistic skis are made by visiting Moment Skis headquarters in Reno. The Factory is where the magic happens, so drop in for a visit and say hi to the team, including employee dogs who are on quality control.

    View
  4. Woman hiking down the stairs to Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

    Secluded Royale

    Panoramic coastal views and a killer leg workout combine on this 2.7-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike to secluded Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

    View