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Top Oregon Coast Scenic Viewpoints
Published: June 30, 2022
Muriel Ponsler Memorial State Scenic Viewpoint Beach
Photo: Melanie Griffin
Whale Watching at Sea Lion Caves
Photo: Taj Morgan
Heceta Head Lighthouse
Photo: Thomas Moser
Bob Creek Wayside
Photo: Jerry Gowins
Cape Perpetua coastline view
Photo: Melanie Griffin / EugeneCascadesCoast.org
Oregon Coast Views
Photo: Taylor Higgins
Oregon Coast Sunset
Photo: Jesse Lally
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Siuslaw Interpretive Center
At Historic Old Town Florence, the Siuslaw River flows under Highway 101's historic Siuslaw River Bridge and into the Pacific Ocean. From the interpretive center view the Siuslaw River Bridge designed by architect McCullough. Learn about the river, its history, the bridge and native plants. Enjoy wheelchair-accessible paths, an observation deck, benches and picnic tables along with wetland foliage.
- Bay St, Florence OR 97439
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Sea Lion Caves
A sea cave adopted by a herd of Steller sea lions, some years numbering as many as 200. Take an elevator ride 200 feet (61 m) down into the cave as tall as a 12-story building and as wide as a football field. During the fall and winter barking sea lions lounge around inside the cave's natural amphitheater and during the summer months they sprawl along outside rock ledges. Believed to be America's largest sea cave and the only known mainland home of wild sea lions in the world. Outside paths and viewing platforms. Gift and snack shop.
- 91560 Hwy 101 N, Florence OR 97439
- P: 541.547.3111
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Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint
An iconic lighthouse built in 1892 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The most photographed lighthouse on the West Coast. Visit the beautiful beach cove below and take a short hike up to the Keeper's House B&B and Interpretive Center and the boutique lighthouse gift shop. Learn about the lighthouse's fascinating local lore. Lighthouse tours are offered from April through October. This is a historical attraction not to be missed. State Day Use Fee Area. (Formerly Devils Elbow State Park.)
- 92072 Hwy 101 S, Yachats OR 97498
- P: 541.547.3416
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Muriel O. Ponsler Memorial State Scenic Viewpoint
A grassy park with picnic tables overlooks the beach. A great spot for whale watching, storm watching or sunsets. Beach access for fishing, windsurfing and beachcombing. Lots of birds and native plants in the vicinity. The five miles (8 km) of sandy beach include China Creek on the south end.
- Hwy 101, Florence OR 97439
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Neptune Beach State Scenic Viewpoint
Four pullouts along Hwy 101, known as Gwynn Creek, Neptune, Strawberry Hill and Bob Creek; comprise Neptune State Scenic Viewpoint. Cliffside benches overlook Cumming Creek, the beach and pounding shore break. An excellent vantage point for whale watching, storm watching, birding and other wildlife observations. Sea lions can occasionally be spotted along the shore and deer often visit the creek. Hunt for agates in the shallow creek. At low tide stroll along the beach to the south to see a natural cave and tide pools. Recreation includes fishing and windsurfing. The restroom is ADA approved.
- Hwy 101, Yachats OR 97498
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Cape Perpetua Overlook Day Use Area
Overlooking the protected Marine Garden shoreline, the Cape Perpetua Overlook Day Use Area is the highest viewpoint accessible by car along the Oregon Coast. The winding, tree-shaded drive leads to an awe-inspiring overlook at 800 ft (244 m). On clear days, views from the overlook can extend far out to sea and along the coastline. There are three hiking trails that begin at the day-use area, featuring the Whispering Spruce Trail that is wheel-chair accessible.
There is a $5 day-use fee or a valid recreation pass is required. There is a vault toilet but no drinkable water at the overlook. Restrooms and water can be found at the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, located at the bottom of Cape Perpetua Lookout Rd.
- Cape Perpetua Lookout, Yachats OR 97498
- P: 541.547.3289
