There’s lots to explore in the Yachats area and points farther north or south, and if one of your goals for 2025 is to be more adventurous, then we have some great ideas for you to get out there and be amazed!

See Stunning Sites At Cape Perpetua

The Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, about five minutes south of Yachats along Highway 101, is truly an amazing part of Oregon’s central coast. You’ll need a U.S. Forest Service day-pass to park and access the sites. Memorable highlights of the area are:

• Devils Churn: This wave-carved chasm is home to constant, dramatic wave action as the ocean ebbs and flows into the narrow inlet. Follow the .4-mile loop trail for impressive views of this volcanic bedrock.
• Cape Perpetua lookout: This day-use area includes a .2-mile loop through “Whispering Spruce” and fully open views of the ocean and coastline to the south and north.
• Thor’s Well and Spouting Horn: Best seen at high tide, these two features showcase incoming and retreating ocean waves to best advantage: the first, a giant hole where water pours in and pools; and the second, a geyser where ocean water is forced through a small channel and released in a plume of spray.
• Giant Spruce Trail: If you’re up for a 2-mile roundtrip hike through old-growth forest, from Cape Perpetua Visitor Center head east to reach the more than 500-year-old giant spruce. It’s sheer size will leave you speechless.

Visit Historic Lighthouses

Heceta Head Lighthouse is located south of Yachats and about 13 miles north of Florence. From the parking lot, which requires a state park day-use pass, climb the .5-mile trail to the lighthouse. It is 56 feet tall and boasts a beautiful Fresnel lens. North in the Newport area, two lighthouses are easy to visit: the historic Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, which is no longer a working lighthouse, and Yaquina Head Lighthouse, a 93-feet tall tower located in the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse also sports a Fresnel lens.

Pay Homage At The Amanda Trail

As you drive south along Highway 101, just before you reach the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, there is a turn-off on the east side of the highway with a gate across it. Park on the left side of the turn-off and walk beyond the gate to access the Amanda Trail on the right. The trail is stepped and descends into an amphitheater where the Amanda Statue is located. Amanda was a blind Coos woman who was captured and forced to march 80 miles to the Coast Indian Reservation in Yachats. A suspension bridge crosses the creek.

Walk A Short Jaunt To The Beach

Planning to stay close to home base? A little bit of adventure is right outside your door along the 804 Trail, the perfect path for you to stretch your legs and enjoy beautiful ocean views. In less than a mile to the north, there’s a long stretch of beach that’s great to explore during low tide.

Plan Your Spa Day At Overleaf Spa

Overleaf Spa, right on the third floor, is your spot to make that dream of a Spa Day your reality. Overleaf Lodge guests need no appointment or fee to use the spa amenities, which include the soaking tubs (don’t forget your swimsuit), the sauna, the steam room, the exercise room and showers. For a really special treat, book your appointment for a signature treatment. These include massages, facials and full-body hydrotherapy, aka, the Vichy shower/scrub. You won’t believe how these treatments will make you feel!

Picnics Aren’t Just For Outdoors

Before you arrive at Overleaf Lodge, call ahead to order your picnic basket. These are great to enjoy in your room, especially on a stormy or cold night. Picnics include wine or beer, specialty snacks from Northwest makers, desserts and wine or beer glasses. What more do you need?

Dine Out At Local Eateries

Several local restaurants offer delicious dining out options, including the Drift Inn, which has live music every night as well as indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor seating area includes a beautiful pond full of koi. Ona Restaurant specializes in fine dining using local ingredients. Or enjoy locally caught and freshly prepared to order seafood at Luna’s Sea Fish House.

Need more ideas? Stop by the front desk and ask for our recommendations! Enjoy your adventures.