Things to Do at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

Click on the links below to learn more about things to do in the park.

Schedule of Events
Annual events at Yaquina Head.

Natural Highlights of Yaquina Head
Visit our amazing tide pools at low tide, get a close-up view of harbor seals relaxing in Quarry Cove, gaze out across the Pacific Ocean from the top of Salal Hill, and imagine the powerful geologic forces that created our basalt headland. Look for whales spouting off the headland or enjoy a day of birding.

Historic Highlights of Yaquina Head
The tallest lighthouse in Oregon was activated on August 20, 1873. You can walk around the lighthouse and take a close inspection of the quality of construction as it continues to withstand the forces of the Pacific climate now for 140 years.

Walking Trails (PDF)
Yaquina Head has several easy to moderate walking trails, all less than 0.5 miles each way, that let you explore every corner of the park. Salal Hill Trail zig-zags up the face of the hill with increasingly beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. The trail to Quarry Cove takes you through grassy open areas with excellent bird watching opportunities, while Communications Hill Trail winds up into a sitka spruce/Douglas-fir forest that shields you from the ocean breezes and then opens up with a view south to Cape Perpetua.

Oregon Coast Quests (45 minutes for each Quest)
Yaquina Head has three Quests that give our visitors a comprehensive view of the history and management of this breathtaking park. Quests are clue-directed hunts that encourage exploration of natural areas. "Questers" follow a series of word clues and learn about the environment. Once all the clues are found, the secret location is revealed - a box where visitors can sign their name and get the official Yaquina Head quest stamp. Try the History Quest (PDF). Quest booklets and handouts are also available at the Information Desk in the Interpretive Center.

Interpretive Center
Learn more about the natural history of Yaquina Head, the process of building the lighthouse, and the families that lived here through our exhibits and videos. There are games and activities for young visitors and a non-profit gift store operated by Friends of Yaquina Lighthouses.