The Lighthouse Circuit

Access, tours, hours, fees, and closures change often. Always verify with the official source before driving.

Central Oregon coast

Yaquina Head to Heceta Head

Start at Yaquina Head’s Interpretive Center, then follow the coast south to Heceta Head. Plan for outdoor exploration; neither stop promises a climb to the lantern.

One full day · about 68 minutes between visitor areas (research routing estimate) · Base: Newport or Florence

Choose a day when both operator schedules work. Reach Heceta before its seasonal ground-floor closing time.

  1. 1. Yaquina Head Lighthouse

    Start at the Interpretive Center. Walk the paved lighthouse path; interior access is limited. Ask staff which tours are running before expecting a tower climb.

  2. 2. Heceta Head Lighthouse

    Walk half a mile uphill from the parking area, gaining about 150 feet. The ground floor is open when weather and staffing allow; upper levels are closed.

Allow 1–2 hours at each stop plus driving, a meal and weather margin. Walking to Heceta adds a half-mile uphill each way. Check tide tables separately if adding Cobble Beach.