One of Tillamook Coast’s most cherished treasures is the Cape Meares Lighthouse. Tucked away amidst the natural beauty that adorns the National Wildlife Refuge and Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, it can be found at the north end of the stunning Three Capes Scenic Loop.
Built in 1889, this teeny tiny wonder stands only 38 feet tall and it is truly a delight to see.
The shortest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast
The lighthouse was named for Captain John Meares who was the first to sail into Tillamook Bay. It is recognized as the shortest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast. Built in 1889, this teeny tiny wonder stands only 38 feet tall and it is truly a delight to see. Don’t let its small size fool you though, the light could be seen for 21 miles out to sea because of the steep sea cliff on which it rests and due to its Fresnel lens.
Made in Paris, France
The lighthouse lens is a first order Fresnel (pronounced “Fraynel”) lens made in Paris, France. It was shipped around Cape Horn, up the west coast to Cape Meares. It was then hauled 217 feet up the cliff by a wooden crane built from local timbers native to the area.
Wildlife abounds
From the park’s many viewpoints, you might spot migrating gray whales or other marine mammals such as sea lions, dolphins, and porpoise. During Whale Watch Week programming in December and Spring Break, volunteers are stationed to help visitors spot migrating whales. No matter what time of year you visit, binoculars are a must!
From April through July, the steep cliffs and offshore rocks are nesting sites for thousands of seabirds, including common murres, pelagic and Brandt’s cormorants and pigeon guillemots. Peregrine falcons occasionally nest on the cliffs in the spring.
Open April through October
Cape Meares lighthouse is open to visitors seasonally from April through October and admission is free. A paved 0.2-mile path leads from the main parking area to the lighthouse, passing many viewpoints and interpretive panels along the way. There is accessible parking on site and service animals are permitted in the gift shop.
Don’t forget the gift shop and the Octopus Tree
An interpretive gift shop adjoins the lighthouse, offering an assortment of local artists’ fare and affordable mementos of your trip. At the same location you will find the amazing octopus tree, a national heritage landmark.
The Octopus Tree (also known as the Council Tree, the Monstrosity Tree, and the Candelabra Tree), a Sitka Spruce, is believed to be around 250 to 300 years old. It’s known for its unique shape, with multiple trunks branching out from a central base instead of a single trunk. Native Americans likely shaped it by bending or training the branches for various purposes, such as ceremonial practices or marking important sites. While the exact reasons for the training are debated, it’s a testament to the interaction between nature and human culture.
