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4.4
9 votes

Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint

Lighthouse Road, Tillamook, Oregon 97134 USA

Open Now
Mon 12a-11:59p
  • Independent
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“see sweeping views from a headland over 200 feet above the ocean”

A must-see when driving the Three Capes Scenic route, Cape Meares State  Scenic Viewpoint is situated on a headland over 200 feet above the ocean. Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda are the other two capes on this route. Cape Meares provides an excellent view of the largest colony of nesting common murres. The site is one of the most populous colonies of nesting sea birds on the continent. Bald eagles are frequently seen in this area, and peregrine falcons have also been known to nest near here. The park features tours of an 1890s lighthouse, the Sallie Jacobson Interpretive Kiosk, and interpretive panels at key viewpoints.  Cape Meares has over three miles of hiking trails and a mile-long walking trail that winds through old-growth spruce trees, including the uniquely-shaped "Octopus Tree". A short quarter mile hike from a turn-off at the park entrance will bring you to the largest Sitka spruce tree in the state of Oregon. In winter and spring, this park is an excellent location for viewing whale migrations. During the summer, resident whales can be seen from Cape Meares along with seals and sea lions that are often seen and heard. Cape Meares LighthouseThe inside of the lighthouse is open April 1st - Oct. 31st, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily. Admission is free. The base of the lighthouse tower, including a small gift shop, is fully open during these hours. The lighthouse tower has tours limited to five visitors every half hour. This limitation is due to vandalism in early 2010 which damaged the historic Fresnel lens.

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Reviewed by
Tatiana Danger

  • Road Warrior
  • 1,169 Reviews
  • 910 Helpful
March 29, 2016
Rated 4.0

You don't see too many designated state scenic viewpoints, so you know this place must have some awesome views. Hiking trails, the 1890's lighthouse, birdwatching, and old-growth forests add to the coastal beauty here.

1 person found this review helpful

Reviewed by
Joshua Smibert

  • 127 Reviews
  • 206 Helpful
October 01, 2014
Rated 5.0

One of the most stunning views across Cape Kiwanda and the Oregon Coast in general. Also a great spot to see Bald Eagles, Puffins and a number of excellent hikes and beaches which are extremely close by. Definitely make sure to visit the Meares Lighthouse while you are there.

1 person found this review helpful

Reviewed by
Joel Schat

  • Photographer
  • 237 Reviews
  • 538 Helpful
July 02, 2014
Rated

After two weeks of roadtripping the oregon coast this was still my favourite place!

1 person found this review helpful

Reviewed by
Adrock

  • 11 Reviews
  • 2 Helpful
March 27, 2022
Rated 5.0

We didn't have a chance to devote the proper time needed for Cape Meares, but what we did see was outstanding! We arrived towards the end of a drizzly day and the views were still stunning. The viewpoints around Otter Rock are to die for. The pictures just can't do it justice...

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Reviewed by
Travel Oregon

  • Expert
  • 5,384 Reviews
  • 2,207 Helpful
June 17, 2015
Rated
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Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint

Lighthouse Road
Tillamook, Oregon
97134 USA
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Hours

Open 24 hours today
  • Sun - Sat: 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

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