Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint

Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint is a breathtaking destination located in Tillamook, Oregon, that offers visitors a beautiful natural setting, amazing views, and a small but lovely lighthouse.

Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint is one of the favorite places of our family, not only because of its beauty but also for all the great memories we have there.

Every time we received family members from Argentina, we visited this location, so when we walk in those paths, we always remember those unique moments.

What to see and do

Without a doubt, it’s always a good idea to come back to Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint.

This place is one of our favorite coastal destinations. And it’s where a beautiful lighthouse, hiking trails surrounded by old-growth forest, and the enigmatic Octopus tree are ready to be discovered.

Cape Meares is also part of the stunning Three Capes Scenic Route, a picturesque road-trip that includes Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda as well. Each of these capes offers a unique way of recreation.

In the case of Cape Meares, you can start the exploration with the most famous sights walking from the main parking lot, where you’ll find the Cape Meares Light Trailhead.

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From there, first head to the coast to see the restored 1889 Lighthouse. In the meantime, you will enjoy the vast views of the Pacific Ocean and rock formations full of wildlife, part of the National Wildlife Refuge (This is also a great whale watching site).

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After that walk, come back to the parking lot, and you will see the path to the fantastic and colossal Octopus Tree. This Sitka spruce is believed to be around 250 to 300 years old.

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There is also another trail, the Big Spruce, that starts at the park’s entrance and finishes at the beach.

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As shown above, this is a must-see coastal destination. You can visit it alone, combined with the other capes, or with some of the close beaches. Particularly on the last visit, after the Cape Meares hike, we headed out to Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site.

Finally, if you want to enjoy more coastal destinations, look for them here!

Plan your trip

Main features/Amenities

• Over 3 miles of hiking trails.
• Cape Meares lighthouse is open to visitors seasonally from April through October. (Closed now for social distancing rules)
• Several viewpoints with incredible vistas and interpretive signs.
• An interpretive gift shop is located in the lighthouse. (Closed now for social distancing rules)
• Picnic area with tables.
• Benches along the trails.
• Restrooms. (Closed now for social distancing rules. Portable restrooms available)

Important information and tips

• Location: 3500 Cape Meares Loop, Tillamook, OR 97141.
• Open daily from dawn to dusk (open with reduced services).
• There is no parking fee.
• During summer it can be very crowded, consequently, for social distancing, it’s better to go early in the morning.
• Pack an extra layer of clothing (especially some waterproof one); this place can be very windy (and chilly), and rain can happen any time at Oregon Coast.