HECETA HEAD LIGHTHOUSE

Situated high above the Pacific Ocean on the rugged Heceta Head outcropping is one of the most popular and inspirational sites on the Oregon Coast; and it is only about 10 scenic miles north of Florence. It is a must-see among must-sees here in Oregon’s Coastal Playground.

Heceta Head Lightstation [say “Ha (or Huh) – SEE – Tah” to sound like a local] is one of the most beautiful, and thus one of the most photographed, lighthouses in the world.

The Heceta Head Lighthouse and Queen Ann style Light Keeper’s home, circa 1894, are both are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Free tours are available of both. The home is now a highly-rated bed-and-breakfast with antique furnishings and an indulgent seven-course breakfast of locally- and regionally-sourced delicacies.

Since March 30, 1894, from its perch 205 feet above the ocean, this 56-foot-tall working lighthouse has cast its beam more than 20 miles out to sea, making it the brightest light on the Oregon coast.

Throughout its intriguing and colorful past, the lighthouse watched over many attending families, safely guided passing personal, commercial, and military vessels, oversaw the construction of Highway 101, hosted a WWII military outpost and Lane Community College’s satellite campus, and blessed many a wedding ceremony.

The lighthouse underwent a major, and historically accurate, restoration between 2011 and 2013.

The leisurely walk to the lighthouse is a quarter-mile uphill from the inn, which itself is a quarter mile from the public parking area. There is an interpretive center and gift shop with books, souvenirs, and other themed items as you begin the walk from the inn to the lighthouse.

Heceta Head Lighthouse is 13 miles north of Florence at Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint, (formerly Devil’s Elbow State Park). Day use parking is $5 or is covered by a $35 Oregon Coast Passport permit available at state parks.

For more information on Heceta Head Lightstation visit www.hecetalighthouse.com or call 866-547-3696.

Victorian Christmas Open House

December 7th & 8th and 14th & 15th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Come one, come all to the 24th Annual Victorian Christmas Open House at the Heceta Head Assistant Lighthouse Keeper’s House. Enjoy the beautifully decorated house while listening to local musicians play holiday favorites. Warm drinks, goodies and even Santa Claus will be there! Heceta Lighthouse Gift shop will also be open for last minute gifts.

Parking is $5 or free with current Oregon State Park Pass. Shuttle service from the state park below will be available. The State Park will open the historical lighthouse as well, so bring your flashlight and rain jacket, just in case.