Discover the Beacon of Oregon’s History: A Coastal Lighthouse Tour
Prelude to the Past
One of the greatest treasures of the Beaver State isn’t just the lush forests, the majestic mountains, or the stunning rivers—it’s the chain of historical lighthouses gracing the coastline. Once serving as lifelines for seafarers, these towering monoliths now celebrate Oregon’s rich maritime history.
Starting Point: Astoria’s Lightship Columbia
Before the lighthouses, there were lightships. Begin your coastal journey in Astoria, where the Lightship Columbia, a floating lighthouse, once guided vessels safely around the Columbia River Bar. Now preserved at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, it tells tales of when brave crews weathered fierce Pacific storms, earning Astoria its nickname, “Graveyard of the Pacific.”
‘Seeing the Light’ in Tillamook County
Further down the Coast, you’ll find Tillamook County, home to three century-old lighthouses. Known for more than just the famous cheddar, Tillamook takes pride in its treasured lighthouses.
First stop, Cape Meares. Compact yet historical, this lighthouse offers panoramic vistas of the ocean and the nearby wildlife refuge. Remember, Oregon’s coastal weather can be unpredictable. Bring a jacket for sudden gusts, and binoculars for birdwatching—you might spot a puffin.
Next, make way for the Victorian-era splendor of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. While inaccessible to the public, it’s visible from Ecola State Park during low tide. Just remember to leave early. Afternoons here usually bring fog that shrouds the lighthouse, making it seem like a ghost ship looming in the distance, earning its nickname “Terrible Tilly.”
Lastly, take a relaxing hike through trails brimming with Oregon’s distinctive Sitka spruce to visit the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Here, whale watching in late spring is an activity locals never tire of.
The Heart of the Journey: Newport’s Lighthouses
Newport, famously known as the ‘Dungeness Crab Capital of the world,’ also houses two striking lighthouses.
The Yaquina Bay lighthouse, unique for having the living quarters and the tower in one structure, provides panoramic bay views. Just do not visit on the second week of September; locals know it’s often closed for the annual ‘Cleaning Week.’
A few miles away, the Yaquina Head Lighthouse stands tall. Bask in the lantern room—the tallest in Oregon—and appreciate the 1000-watt bulb illuminating the surrounding cliffside. After sunset, the views are just out of this world.
Stretch the Legs in Coos County
Down south, the shorelines of Coos County await. Stroll through Coos Bay, where the Cape Arago Lighthouse once operated. What shell of a structure remains now stands as a testament to Oregon’s unwavering sea-guard. This site belongs to the Confederated Tribes of Coos, and while public access isn’t possible, it is visible from Sunset Bay State Park or during the annual Oregon Coast Music Festival.
End of the Tour: The Unspoiled South
As your coastal journey approaches its end, the southwestern-most corner of Oregon holds a prize—The Port Orford Heads State Park. Hike the expertly maintained trails to make your final lighthouse stop at Cape Blanco. As Oregon’s oldest running lighthouse, it holds many stories of sailors seeking its light in fog and storm.
Final Thoughts
Embarking on this journey is truly like opening a carefully preserved album filled with Oregon’s diverse history, breathtaking views, carefully preserved landscapes, and unbeatable charm. So, pack your reverence for history, your delight for surprise sights, plus a raincoat (you know Oregon’s drizzle), and dive into the enchanting tale of Oregon’s coastal lighthouses. From first light to the last, these enduring sentinels are waiting to share their stories. Welcome to Oregon, friend! Enjoy the tour, take loads of pictures, and remember, the most loved paths in Oregon are the paths with heart.