ranger teaching a group of children and teachers on Cobble Beach

For Educators

Yaquina Head Education Programs 2026

Due to low staffing levels, ranger-led tidepool programs will not be offered.

Registration for Spring Teacher-Led Education Programs begins January 12th at 8am.

The 100-acre park hosts some of Oregon’s best tidepools, a 19th century lighthouse, an Interpretive Center with exhibits and videos, and opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Reservations are required for all visiting school groups.

Reservations

With over 450,000 visitors a year, Yaquina Head is a busy place. For the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, the Bureau of Land Management requires reservations for all visiting school groups to be made two weeks in advance. Without a reservation, fees may apply or you may be asked to return at another time. Access to Cobble Beach may also be denied without a reservation.

With confirmed reservations, there is no entrance fee or charge for educational programs at Yaquina Head.

Spring Teacher-led Education Programs

If you would like to facilitate a teacher-led tidepool program during April 3 – June 12, there are pre-determined tidepool slots to choose from. Each slot is an hour and a half and allows 35 students at a time. Teachers can reserve lesson plans and materials during their visit. A list of these items is available in the registration information packet

Summer - Winter Teacher-led Education Programs

Teachers, professors and other instructors are welcome to explore Yaquina Head with their students by coming prepared with educational outcomes in mind. Reservations are always required to assure your group can get into the tidepools and fees are waived.

Tips for Field Trips to Yaquina Head

  • To protect wildlife and their habitat, no more than 35 students are permitted in the tidepools at a time.
    • Example: If you have 45 students, you will need to split students into 2 groups and visit the tidepools at separate times.
  • There is a maximum of 70 students in a day/trip to the site.
  • Please account for your whole visit when filling out your registration form. Including: exploring the tidepools, restrooms, lunch, interpretive center, and outdoor exploration.
  • Harbor seal pupping season begins mid-May to mid-June. During this time there could be limited or no access to Cobble Beach and the tidepools. This is to protect the seal pups and their mothers during this sensitive time.
  • Sea bird nesting season also begins in May and generally lasts through September. During this time access to the entire beach may be limited depending on where the birds decide to nest. Mitigating disturbances helps ensure the success of the offspring.
  • Ensure students wear appropriate clothing when visiting. The headland can be quite windy, and spring may bring rain showers. Closed-toed shoes, warm jacket, and gloves/hats are advised.
  • Teacher’s Packet - Directions, field trip preparation, guidelines, chaperoning, and suggested park activities.

Quick Links

Winter Beach Safety

Winter weather along the coast can be dramatic, beautiful and extremely dangerous.

  • High winds yank car doors from hands and make walking difficult.
  • Sneaker waves—sudden tidal surges—can strike at any time knocking walkers off their feet and into the cold Pacific.
  • High surf leaves little beach exposed for walking.
  • Never turn your back on the ocean and keep children within arms' reach.