Heceta Head Beach

This beach was an unexpected and disappointing stop on our coastal drive. I do not recommend wasting any time here, not even for a quick photo stop. We spent several hours hiking and regretted every minute of it. The lighthouse was unremarkable and the weather was dreary, making our visit even more unpleasant. The trail to the beach was a disaster, wet and muddy, and I cannot imagine it being any better in dry weather. Save yourself the trouble and skip this beach altogether.

On a day that was mostly obscured by fog, we embarked on a breathtaking hike from US 101. The trail was not overly difficult and offered stunning vistas at every turn. The walkways were impeccably maintained, and any slick spots were made safer with the addition of straw. Along the way, there were plenty of opportunities to pause and capture the majestic scenery in photos. The Lighthouse served as a perfect resting spot before our return journey, and we were grateful to have lingered for an hour as the fog gradually lifted. This experience was undoubtedly a valuable use of our time.

One of the most beloved destinations in Florence is the beach, which offers a delightful experience. The beach is beautiful, with some sections featuring black stones that provide a unique walking experience. During low tide, visitors can explore the tide pools and observe a variety of marine creatures such as starfish, seanimony, mussels, and hermit crabs. A short walk up a path leads to the lighthouse, which is a must-visit spot. Overall, this beach is a fantastic place to spend your time and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The route to the lighthouse parking area can be perplexing if you're traveling south on 101. Even Google maps can't seem to get it right. However, once you've parked and begun your hike, it's a delightful experience. The trail is elevated and takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace and how frequently you stop to take in the breathtaking ocean views that change with each turn. I highly recommend hiking up to the lighthouse. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to see the lighthouse keeper's home and learn fascinating historical tidbits about the lighthouse and the surrounding region. It's a fantastic spot to take in the ocean vista, observe various bird species, and explore the diverse flora.

Begin your beach adventure by parking your car near the coast and taking a leisurely stroll up the winding path leading to the lighthouse. Once you reach the top, you'll have the opportunity to tour the keeper's quarters and browse the gift shop. We met some friendly folks with a powerful zoom lens, which provided an up-close view of the sea lions and birds on the rocks. They even shared some interesting facts about the local wildlife. Afterward, we descended to the beach and strolled along the shoreline. Overall, it was a delightful excursion that I highly recommend.