The answer
Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint combines a lighthouse destination with a beach and coastal trails. The lighthouse began operating in 1894. From the parking area, the trail passes the historic lightkeeper’s house on its way uphill.
Access, hours, and parking
| Detail | Visitor information |
|---|---|
| Vehicle access | There is no public drive-up access to the lighthouse. |
| Interior visits | Ground floor only; upper levels are closed. |
| Posted interior hours | 11 a.m.–3 p.m. March–October; 11 a.m.–2 p.m. November–February, subject to weather and staffing. |
| Parking | A valid day-use parking permit is required. Check the current fee and accepted passes before visiting. |
| Drones | Drone use is prohibited at the viewpoint. |
Check Oregon State Parks’ Heceta Head visitor page for updates before you go.
Plan your visit
Build your itinerary around the walk rather than treating this as a quick roadside stop. Consider everyone in your group when planning the distance, and leave time to enjoy the setting once you arrive.
Make it part of a Florence day
You can plan a visit around time in Old Town, another coastal stop, or a meal in Florence. If you’re traveling from Eugene, include the Highway 126 drive and the additional distance north on Highway 101 in your schedule.
For a shorter day, make the lighthouse your main destination. For a longer visit, explore our guide to things to do in Florence or the Oregon Dunes. Our guide to waterfalls near Eugene can help you plan another day outdoors.
Overnight stays and special occasions
The assistant lightkeeper’s house operates as a bed and breakfast. Contact it directly for reservations. Outdoor weddings require coordination with the park; ceremonies are not permitted inside the lighthouse.
If you’re comparing locations for a celebration, see our wedding venues guide.
Explore more of Florence
If your visit has you considering a move, read living in Florence or talk with Melissa Stiltner about buying or selling in Florence.
Florence homes for sale
These are citywide Florence listings rather than properties near Heceta Head. Browse Florence homes · Contact Melissa · All local guides
6000 Little Woahink Dr
Florence, OR 97439
$929,900
3 bd · 2.1 ba · 2,108 sf · Florence
Courtesy of Justin Young and John Barnett, Coldwell Banker Coast Real Est · 541-997-7777 · RMLS · Oct 8, 2026, 7:30 PM
Listed by
Justin Young and John Barnett
935 Hemlock St
Florence, OR 97439
$369,900
2 bd · 1.1 ba · 1,401 sf · Florence
Courtesy of Aric Sneddon, Coldwell Banker Coast Real Est · 541-997-7777 · RMLS · Oct 8, 2026, 7:15 PM
Listed by
Aric Sneddon
3760 Highway 101 Unit 18
Florence, OR 97439
$84,900
2 bd · 1.1 ba · 938 sf · Florence
Courtesy of Amy Johnson, TR Hunter Real Estate · 541-997-1200 · RMLS · Oct 8, 2026, 7:10 PM
Listed by
Amy Johnson
88416 1ST AVE Unit 110/112
Florence, OR 97439
$289,950
2 bd · 2.0 ba · 780 sf · Florence
Courtesy of Philip Wilson, Windermere Real Estate Lane County · 541-997-5926 · RMLS · Oct 8, 2026, 6:00 PM
Listed by
Philip Wilson
5425 Bay Berry Dr
Florence, OR 97439
$289,000
2 bd · 1.0 ba · 820 sf · Florence
Courtesy of Richard Beaudro, TR Hunter Real Estate · 541-997-1200 · RMLS · Oct 8, 2026, 5:49 PM
Listed by
Richard Beaudro
85405 Armstrong Way
Florence, OR 97439
$525,000
3 bd · 2.0 ba · 1,928 sf · Florence
Courtesy of Crystell Wise, TR Hunter Real Estate · 541-997-1200 · RMLS · Oct 8, 2026, 5:07 PM
Listed by
Crystell Wise
Frequently asked questions
Can you drive to Heceta Head Lighthouse?+
No. Plan to walk from the parking area using the trail described above.
How much does it cost to visit?+
Check the park’s current parking-permit information. The charge is for parking, rather than lighthouse admission.
When can I go inside?+
Use the seasonal schedule above as a starting point and confirm access with the park before your visit.
Can I stay overnight nearby?+
The lightkeeper’s house B&B is an option. Check availability directly when planning your dates.
Can I fly a drone or hold a wedding here?+
Drones are prohibited. For an outdoor ceremony, contact park staff about arrangements and requirements.
Could this be part of a trip to explore Florence homes?+
Yes. Leave enough time for both activities and tell your agent how much of the day you want to spend sightseeing. A separate visit for neighborhood exploration may also be useful.