Probably the most well-known sight in the Florence, Oregon area is Heceta Head Lighthouse, located approximately 12 miles north of Florence on Highway 101. Named for Captain Don Bruno de Heceta who explored the area around 1775, construction on this beautiful lighthouse began in 1892. However, this wasn't an easy location on which to build a lighthouse. Over 1000 barrels of blasting powder were used to create a "flat table" large and secure enough for lighthouse construction.

Two years and $180,000 later, the lighthouse was completed and first lit on March 30, 1894. At 65 feet in height, this lighthouse towers 205 feet above sea level and sends its light nearly 21 miles out to sea. Today, with the lighthouse still fully operational, tours are available most days from 11am to 3pm. Donations are accepted at the lighthouse entrance for upkeep of the lighthouse and the surrounding park. There is a short, slightly uphill hike to the lighthouse itself from the park and beach below, but the path is quite wide and very manageable for both inexperienced hikers and wheelchair-bound visitors. The lighthouse itself and the surrounding view make the hike more than worth the energy spent to get there.

Throughout the years, the keepers' families lived happily at this central coast location. Children were schooled in the nearby keeper's house which is now open as a bed and breakfast for visitors who wish to stay the night in this magnificent area. However, visitors are warned that the keeper's house is considered haunted by many who visit there. From the early 1890s to this day, lodgers and visitors have reported "strange things" occurring during their visits. Apparently this doesn't deter visitors who wish to stay overnight as the bed and breakfast is often full to capacity.

With access to a gorgeous beach, generous picnic areas, and often great kite-flying weather, the Heceta Head State Park provides more than a visit to the most photographed lighthouse on the Oregon Coast. It also offers spectacular views and simply a splendid afternoon enjoying this wonderful coastal area. As with many other state parks, there is a day-use fee for this park, but the pass is good at all parks throughout the state for the day it's purchased. Annual passes are also available for frequent visitors.

As visitors reach the city of Florence, stops at Heceta Beach, the north jetty, the south jetty, or even all three are highly recommended. Providing generous space for all types of beach activity, all three of these locations offer visitors a great opportunity to spend the day at the beach, enjoying the Pacific Ocean as only the Oregon Coast can present it. Finally, a stop in Old Town Florence is also recommended before heading out of town. With quaint little shops, the spectacular seafood served as only Mo's can, and great gift-buying opportunities, just a stroll through Old Town Florence offers a relaxing view of this quite pleasant coastal town.

Continue South

Continue North

All photos on this web site are ©2002, ©2003, ©2004, ©2005 as the exclusive property of the site designer, Julia (Harris) Ozab, and they may not be used in any form without her express written consent. If you wish to use any of the photos from this site, please contact her via e-mail at jozab@sansangnim.com.