Oregon’s Pacific Coast Scenic Byway…

If you visit Oregon this summer, be sure to explore the amazing and majestic Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. Without a doubt, this  drive along Highway 101 is one of my favorite drives on the west coast. The road basically hugs  the ocean and offers amazing views of the wild churning Pacific Ocean down below. We’ve driven this road as far south as Newport and on more than one occasion we’ve seen whales cavorting  right outside the car window. This, of course,  was a spontaneous thrill for all of us!

While traveling along the scenic road, we’ve also taken time to visit and tour many of the historic and beautiful lighthouses. In April, my husband visited the Cape Meares Lighthouse, which is near Tillamook. Many years ago, we visited the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Yaquina Head is one of my personal favorites because it dates back to 1873 and stands 163 feet above sea level.  Located in the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the destination offers scenic trails, tidepools, and a visitor center.  The panoramic view from the lighthouse is amazing.

Photo by Christopher Trainer

–Melissa A. Trainer