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Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

See Oregon Coast family vacation

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

Newport

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Off Hwy 101, 4 miles
north of Newport
Newport, OR 97365+0410
541-574-3116

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Good-for-Kids Rating

Babies
**
Toddlers & Pre-K
*****
School-Age Kids
*****
Pre-Teens & Teens
****

Good-for-Kids Rating

Rate Yaquina Bay Lighthouse:

Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age Kids
Pre-Teens & Teens

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse Description

On a clear day you can see 20 miles in all directions from the top of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Oregon and one that is still in use today. A self-guided tour takes visitors up 111 steps for a magnificent view of the shoreline. Don't leave without seeing the extensive displays about native marine life and the life of a light keeper, a documentary video about the construction of the lighthouse, and nineteenth century toys, games, and activities in the Interpretive Center.

  • Historical Landmark

  • History Museum

  • Park

  • Hiking

Kid Tips

School-Age Kids: Plan to spend at least an hour in the Interpretive Center, where kids can play games like checkers and rolling hoops, look through a stereoscope of black-and-white pictures of the area, do puzzles, and coloring activity sheets.

Pre-Teens & Teens: Engineering-minded teens will be fascinated by the documentary video, which shows how 258 pieces of glass make up the lighthouse lens.

Planning Notes

    • Bring binoculars. You'll need them to see the seals and the seven seabird species (including tufted puffins, Brandt's cormorants, and common murres) that nest on the rocks near Yaquina Head.
    • Wear sturdy shoes. Walking down to the water is a lovely way to get perspective on the lighthouse, and there are several easy, well-marked hikes to meander around as well.
    • Park at the Interpretive Center. The one-third of a mile paved path (stroller and wheelchair accessible) leads to the lighthouse, and it's easier to find parking here.
    • Expect to wait. Only six people are allowed on the lighthouse stairs at a time. A guide will answer your kids' questions and relate the history of the lighthouse as you wait for your turn.
    • The self-guided tour is free. There is a $5 parking fee when you enter the park, however (it's good for three days).

Just the Facts

Hours: (Summer) Park: Daily 6 a.m.-sunset.
Interpretive Center: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. July 1 to Labor Day.
Lighthouse 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Call ahead to confirm all times.

Fees: Free

Recommended Time: 1 - 2 hours

Reviews of Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

need new light house wife

By sunnydaz40 February 22, 2012

What we loved:
Keeper Ken

What we didn't love:
keepers wife

This was a great place to visit. My entire family loved it. The information was great. Learned a lot. Keeper Kens explanation was truly fascinating and educational. However, the "light house keepers wife" obviously had no idea how to deal with/ show understanding for special needs children. She became snippy first with the child, then with me. A little but if understanding should be extended. That kind of rigidity has no place in something intended for public display/education. I treat my child as though we were not challenged, meaning I hold him responsible for his behavior the same as I do my other child, but the vocalizations are as much out of my control as they are his. I actually left ANGRY with that woman. I have not had to deal with so little compassion EVER! Word to the wise... if you have a special needs child with uncontrollable vocalizations you might want to think twice before visiting here...otherwise, enjoy your trip. Read More

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