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Pets allowed
Allowed
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
No
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Home to the historic Yaquina Bay lighthouse, the Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site is located on the north side of Yaquina Bay, just opposite the jetty inlet of South Beach State Park.  Constructed in 1871, the historic lighthouse is notable for several reasons: it is Newport's oldest structure, it Oregon's only lighthouse with attached living quarters, it is the only lighthouse with a wooden structure, and it is Oregon's shortest lived lighthouse.  Another lighthouse was planned for Cape Foulweather in 1873, but logistical difficulties led to its construction at Yaquina Head.  Because the Yaquina Head Lighthouse was taller and brighter, the government elected to extinguish the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse in 1874, only three years after it was built.  Now privately managed, the lighthouse was re-lit in 1996.  If you are planning on a tour, please note that the lighthouse is only open Wednesday through Sunday from 12-4 p.m.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Great views of Pacific. Lots of picnic areas. Historic lighthouse.

Cons

Beach is difficult to access. Lighthouse only open Wednesday through Sunday, 12-4 p.m.

Features

Historically significant
Flushing toilets
Lighthouse
Potable water
Picnic tables
Covered picnic areas

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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A profound concept originally envisioned by governor Oswald West, in 1967 the Oregon legislature ultimately realized his vision of making the entire Oregon Coast forever open to the public in a piece of landmark legislation titled the Oregon Beach Bill, officially making all 363 miles public land. "The People's Coast" is truly a one-of-a-kind coastline, a unique blend of mountains and rocky stacks, towering old growth forests, marine sanctuaries, tide pools and kelp forests, charming towns, historic fishing communities, world-class golfing, breweries, and simply jaw-dropping scenic beaches. We encourage you to plan your next trip at visittheoregoncoast.com or by calling (541) 574-2679.

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