Exploring the Oregon Coast from Florence, OR: Sea Lions, Scenic Lookouts, and Natural Wonders
The Oregon Coast is a place where rugged beauty meets crashing waves, and nowhere is that more evident than in the stretch north of Florence, OR. From sea caves echoing with the barks of sea lions to dramatic ocean blowholes and towering coastal vistas, this section of the coast is a must-see on any Oregon road trip.
In this post, we’ll guide you through some of the best things to do near Florence, Oregon, including the famous Sea Lion Caves, Thor’s Well, Cape Perpetua, and more!
🦭 1. Sea Lion Caves – America’s Largest Sea Cave
Just 11 miles north of Florence, the Sea Lion Caves are one of the most popular coastal attractions in Oregon—and for good reason. This natural sea cave is home to hundreds of Steller sea lions, especially during the winter and spring months. An elevator takes you down into the cave where you can observe these wild animals in their natural habitat.
📸 Pro Tip: Bring a zoom lens! The sea lions are often lounging on the rocks at a distance, and the lighting inside the cave can be low.
Admission: Paid
Kid-Friendly: Absolutely
RV Parking: Limited – arrive early or park nearby and walk.
🗼 2. Heceta Head Lighthouse – A Picture-Perfect Coastal Icon
Just a few minutes up the road from the Sea Lion Caves lies the Heceta Head Lighthouse, perched dramatically atop a 1,000-foot-high cliff. This lighthouse is not only functional but also one of the most photographed in the country.
You can park at the beach and hike the short trail up to the lighthouse for incredible panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
🥾 Don’t Miss: The lighthouse trail offers some of the best coastal views in Oregon. Watch for whales during migration seasons!
Admission: Free ($10.00 for parking)
Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Heceta Head Lighthouse
🌲 3. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area – Nature, History & Epic Views
Next on our list is the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, located about 25 miles north of Florence. This is the highest point on the Oregon Coast that you can drive to, and it offers a stunning overlook that stretches for miles in both directions.
🚶♀️ Cape Perpetua Visitor Center
Stop at the visitor center for educational exhibits, trail maps, and helpful rangers. The center has restrooms, picnic areas, and a short trail to an overlook.
🗺️ Cape Perpetua Lookout Tower
Drive the winding road up to the Cape Perpetua Lookout for what might be the most breathtaking view along the Oregon Coast. On a clear day, you can see up to 70 miles of coastline!
🌊 4. Devil’s Churn – Watch the Ocean Explode
Just south of the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, Devil’s Churn is a narrow, rocky inlet where the waves violently crash and churn, especially during high tide or stormy weather. It’s one of the best places to witness the raw power of the Pacific Ocean.
⚠️ Safety Note: Stay behind railings and be cautious—sneaker waves are real and dangerous.
Trail Difficulty: Easy walk from the parking area
Best Time to Visit: Around high tide for the most dramatic effect
🌪️ 5. Thor’s Well – The “Drainpipe of the Pacific”
One of the most photographed natural wonders on the Oregon Coast, Thor’s Well appears to be a bottomless hole in the ocean. During incoming waves and high tide, water surges into the rock formation and shoots back up in dramatic fashion, looking like the ocean is draining into the Earth.
📷 Photo Tip: Sunset provides incredible lighting, but be careful—this area is slippery and unpredictable.
Parking: Located off Hwy 101, short walk to viewpoint
Best Time to Visit: One hour before or after high tide
Thor’s Well
🚐 RV Tips for Visiting the Oregon Coast
Many of these locations have limited parking for larger rigs, especially during busy summer months. If possible, leave your RV at a campground or boondocking site and explore with a tow vehicle or e-bike.
Cape Perpetua Campground and Carl G. Washburne State Park are popular camping options nearby.
Be prepared for rapid weather changes—layers are key!
Final Thoughts
This section of the Oregon Coast from Florence to Cape Perpetua offers a perfect mix of wildlife, rugged coastline, and dramatic viewpoints. Whether you're road-tripping in an RV, van-lifing it, or just exploring on vacation, this area delivers unforgettable scenery and family-friendly adventure.
Have you explored this part of the Oregon Coast? Drop a comment below and tell us your favorite stop!
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#OregonCoast #FlorenceOR #SeaLionCaves #ThorsWell #DevilsChurn #CapePerpetua #HecetaHeadLighthouse #RVLife #FamilyTravel #RoadTripUSA #WestCoastWonders