Adventures in Oregon: Heceta Head
A few weekends back, we ventured over to the coast to check out Heceta Head, outside of Florence. We stopped first at a viewpoint slightly to the south so I could photograph the lighthouse from a distance.
As I stepped out of the car, a cacophony of honking and barking filled the air and I realized with glee that sea lions were down below! To me, sea lions are the dogs of the marine world and I have this crazy idea that given their propensity for sunning themselves and being extremely vocal, they would most definitely be hounds. So, it’s no surprise that it thrilled me to see them swimming around in their natural environment.
(I know they’re microscopic in the photos but look closely – there are quite a few!)
After admiring the stunning Heceta Head Lighthouse, we continued up the road for a closer look at the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint (say that 5 times fast!)
We parked at the cove that lies just to the south of the lighthouse which is known as Devil’s Elbow. One day I’ll have to catalog just how many things in Oregon are named after the Devil – Devil’s Churn, Devil’s Punchbowl, Devil’s Lake, Devil’s Staircase … certainly adds a dramatic touch, don’t you think?
We followed a short (~ 0.5 mile), easy trail up to the lighthouse, winding past what was once the assistant keeper’s house.
It is now a functioning bed and breakfast – how cool is that?? Definitely added staying there to the old bucket list.
Along the trail were so many incredible viewpoints and to see the transition from late afternoon to evening play out across the sky and water … it was perfection.
The lighthouse was constructed in the late 1800s and has the strongest light on the Oregon coast – it reaches 21 miles out to sea!
On this particular trip, we brought Wally and Sawyer along and they really seemed to enjoy themselves.
From the myriad little tide pools to the gazillion birds hanging out on the giant offshore rocks to the colorful sunset, Heceta Head was simply beautiful. You can’t help but stand still in admiration at the sheer splendor of it all. I can only imagine the gratitude felt by the guests at the B & B to wake up and look out on such a view – doesn’t get much better than this. So pardon the photographic overload but I couldn’t help myself – so much beauty that I want to share with you!
(pictured above: the meeting of freshwater and saltwater – always fascinating)
Ahhh. Looking back over these photos has me itching to get back there as soon as we can! Hope you enjoyed this little virtual trip (and if you have the chance to see it in person – take it!!)
Catch up on other posts in the Adventures in Oregon series:
Gorgeous, gorgeous pictures – as always. Oregon looks good on all of you.