1. Sea Lion Caves

1. Sea Lion Caves

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Florence, OR

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Sea Lion Caves

3.6 (236 reviews)
Open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Updated over 3 months ago

Sea Lion Caves Photos

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So many Sea Lions!
Jen W.

I almost didn't stop in. I've had touristy wildlife experiences that didn't meet expectations. When there was a parking spot right up front, it seemed like kismet. Went into the gift shop and saw on the live cam that there were plenty of sea lions in the cave. Handed over $18 and off I went. Down the elevator and into the (not so fresh smelling) cavern. It was awesome!! So many loud creatures were in the cave, chilling on rocks. Happy in their natural habitat, rolling all over each other, singing along in husky voices with lots of birds chiming in. It was super cool! There are activities, educational videos, a stairway up to a crevasse where you can see a lighthouse in the distance if it wasn't so foggy. Then you can head back up and outside to sea a bunch more sea lions on the cliff below. It was a wonderful experience. Touristy yes, because it was full of tourists, but it delivers!

Lookout point
Tessa H.

Roadside cash grab. Definitely not worth $18/person, but it is a cool spot to see once. We spent probably 40 minutes there total. A few informational signs were around, and of course the sea lions were fun to see. The fudge samples in the gift shop were pretty good. Maybe a "do one time" kind of stop, but I wouldn't return.

Inside the cave
Betsy B.

We went to see the sea lions in the cave but this time of year apparently they are outside. We didn't realize we had to walk quite a bit to see them. It wouldn't have been so bad except there was have winds and it was cold. We did go into the cave and it was interesting to see it. There was some information and a video there. It was nice to see the cave and would have enjoyed walking the path to see the sea lions but just too miserable with the wind and chill. They have a gift shop with a variety of items.

11.24.23 Cave in Florence OR
May A.

Largest sea cave in the... world?! Could be! Well, at least in the United States. From Florence we drove 11 miles north on Highway 101 and we reached the Sea Lion Caves. In November the crowd was not so bad. There is a small area for parking just outside the gift shop. If that area is full there is additional parking across the street. Exercise caution when crossing the street... after all, that is Highway 101! As you enter the gift shop the ticket booth for the caves is to the right and towards the back. The gal at the tickets was vey nice and friendly. She has a 10-acre ranch in Wheatland CA. Hey, we know where that is! LoL! she is approx 30-mins from where we live (I digress). The tickets are normally $18/adult but it was discounted to $16 this time because the sea lions were out of the caves (meaning no sea lions to see during our visit). The sea lions are not paid entertainers so they can come and go as they please LoL! We totally understand. In addition, we can come back to the caves next year and if we show them the original receipt we purchased the tickets for we get a free admission. The elevator took us down 208-ft. The stairs would've been 250 steps. No, thank you. It was an engineering marvel how the whole thing was constructed. The cave is a year-round home of the Stellar Sea Lion. There is a short video to watch, a sea lion skeleton (exhibit), of course, the caves, and if you ascend the wooden steps to the North Cave entrance there is an opening to view the waves crashing into the rocks and we could also see the Heceta Head Lighthouse yon. Watching the angry waves of the mighty Pacific Ocean from the South Lookout is pretty amazing. Hopefully, we can come back next year to actually see the Stellar sea lions. Review #3244

Infomercial video
Brandon H.

I went into this experience with no expectations not really knowing what I was getting my self into. In the end I really enjoyed the Sea Lion Caves. I would highly recommend this road side attraction. I went off season so we didn't see any Sea Lions in the cave but our ticket was good for a return visit during season if we returned within that year. I am from out of town so we didn't do this but thought that was a good deal. Explore the cave when off season when no one is there then come back and see the sea lions some other time. The attraction consisted of an elevator ride, small hike, cave exploration, video, and information about the cave. Depending on how many people are there this is like a 15min to 30min activity. Probably can spend an hour if you read all the information panels. Fun stop for the family if you are driving by and want to take a break evenifthereare no sea lions.

Yuliya

We visited the Sea Lion Caves and didn't want to leave. For 2 adults and 2 kids, it was $60, and worth every dollar. Watching the sea lions up close was amazing, and our kids were absolutely thrilled. The short video was interesting, and the whole place had such a unique atmosphere. It's one of those experiences that stays with you, and we'll definitely remember it for a long time.

Bar R.

I loved seeing all the sea lions. It's chilly and a walk, but once you get to the elevator there's a staff member in there so that's excellent. Staff member stated that once people jumped in the elevator on the 4th of July, and it stalled for 4 hours , hence there being staff in the elevator. The cave is not as stinky as I thought it would be, and it is well worth the drive. I love them all.

Heceta Lighthouse view from Sea Lion Caves
Danielle P.

This was one of our stops along the Oregon coastline to see the sealions. There are a few parking spots in front of store and plenty across the street. Be careful its a sharp curve in this location, people running across the street not looking both ways. Cost is $16 to enter the sea lion area. We opted to pass this due to the them not being in the cave. This was my whole point in stopping at this location. We where told there are some on the rocks down below. This is a great area for the views of ocean and lighthouse. The bathrooms are clean, and the shop had plenty to choose from. Customer service was good. Im sure its a great educational opportunity for some. If you have never see sea lions I encourage all to not miss this along the way. Don't worry if you don't see the sealions, there are plenty of opportunities in Oregon for you to see them. @glampedlife

Stephanie S.

What a neat experience when heading to Florence, we found this place by accident. We had a lovely day and a nice walk taking plenty of pictures. It was King Tide season and there were strong waves crashing into the rocks and knocking the poor sea lions around. We took the elevator down into the cave to get a little closer view of the 185 sea lions and learn more about their habitat and the cave itself. We grabbed a couple things to take back home from the gift shop like a carved sealion from wood and since it was Valentines weekend hubby bought me some cute heart shaped opal earrings. Nice time, made some memories and definitely got our steps in!

Tiffany W.

Another great find that a local said was a "DON'T MISS" - I couldn't agree more, for the able-bodied. (Note: I think the mobility-challenged crowd might not enjoy this.) The elevator worked great...but it was small and I worried, what if it broke? In any case, the lions were all in the other side anyhow, for mating, as the woman advised us in the gift shop...however, I'm glad to have seen the caves (there's TONS of inner stairs in that part)...it's where I took the prettiest waterfall pix on our trip! It was fun to see (and hear) the lions on the long walk on the other side...but they were kinda far away. A great excursion for the money. The gift shop was large, and I got bags of the softest, most delicious marrionberry taffy that I've ever experienced. My neighbors and I loved that taffy SO much! Anyhow, I highly recommend this if you don't mind walking, stairs, and hills.

Jailene C.

It's always nice to come here, specifically with family for me anyway. I used to come here a lot as a kid with family and I remember it being a great time, and it was! I love seeing all the sea lions whether they're swimming or sunbathing. It was about $20 per person, for adults to get in. There's a bit of a walk to get to the elevator and then you see the sea lions behind a fence. Very scenic for sure! On our way back up to leave, the elevator wasn't working for about 10+ minutes or so, not sure if that's a normal occurrence but it wasn't that serious anyway, it was fixed and working and we were on our way. Just thought I'd mention it. The shops after the caves have lots of things, from fudge to dreamcatchers to shot glasses to crystals. Lots of cute souvenirs to choose from.

Many Seals inside cave
Grace R.

Came on a windy 57F degree day in July. Price was $18 per adult and $12 a child. We were told there were only 15 seals in the cave, but many more on the rocks outside. We were educated that these seals "roar" and were different than the SanFran seals on the pier that "bark". The seals were also large and the male (bulls) could be as big as 500 lbs. In the cave, we were pleasantly surprised to see about 40+ seals of all sizes (babies, females and huge bullying males)! Was fun to see them frolic, play, sit on the rocks, swim. I brought my own binoculars which really paid off as we got to see seals "up close". Outside of the caves on the rocks, we got to see another 30! Because of all the action, we stayed over 1.5 hrs and enjoyed ourselves. Well worth the trip and the money. Recommendation: Bring binoculars. Dress warm.

Winter B.

The sea lion caves are one of my favorite attractions the Oregon coast has to offer. The trick is you have to go during the winter months because that's when the sea lions take refuge in the cave. This summer I made the mistake of going and we didn't end up seeing any. Although, the employees gave us a free voucher to come back anytime! I thought that was so nice. And it never expires so you can save it for as long as you want. Especially nice for out of towners who may be visiting from pretty far. When the sea lions are in the cave you will see hundreds! It's pretty amazing. Such a great experience you definitely need to see if you haven't already.

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Ask the Community - Sea Lion Caves

Is this place stroller friendly?

Not really. There's a series of steps down through the gift shop to outside, then a steep path down to the elevator. And, if you want to go to the northern lookout to see Heceta head, it's all stairs.

What time of year is best to see the sea lions?

Winter time would be the because they will be in the caves. In the summer and autumn they migrate to San Francisco

Is the only way down to the cave by elevator?

No. There are steps going down.

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Review Highlights - Sea Lion Caves

Absolutely a one of a kind experience and so cool to get to see that many sea lions up close in the cave.

Mentioned in 6 reviews

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Devil's Churn - The pathway leading towards Devils Churn.

Devil's Churn

4.7(26 reviews)
11.3 mi

Devils Churn is one of the coolest geological formations I've ever seen…read more As the tide comes in, the waves are concentrated in the basalt chasm (the result of an ancient collapsed lava tube), where they gain speed, ricochet against themselves, creating the "churn" look. It looks like a giant ocean bathtub full of violent butter. The waves splash dozens of feet in the air, filling tide pools on the basalt cliffs, and then cascading back down over the edges in a circular formation of infinite waterfalls. It looks like something you would imagine you would see in Iceland. The churn can be seen from a viewing area close to the parking lot, but it's just a short half mile hike down to the shore. Even though people have been washed out to sea from this site, these people had gone beyond the official trail, into the actual tide pool area above the churn. So, as long as you're on the trail, you're probably safe. I held on to the wooden rail just in case a big wave came, but noticed that the very bottom rung had been washed out. There is enough parking for about twenty cars at the information center, which is staffed by the Forest Service on limited hours/days. Parking is $5 or free with an NPS, Forest Service, or other federal interagency pass. I've actually been here a few times now. Valentine's Day was pretty crowded, and the visitor center was open. I had to leave before high tide, but was mesmerized. So, I ended up coming back during high tide a few days later. At one point, I saw the ocean throw an entire tree onto the ledge-- only to reclaim it a few minutes later. Falling in to the churn would almost certainly result in death. Some of the waves looked like they were going 25mph once they entered the chasm. Plus it's full of huge logs being violently churned around. But just half mile down the trail, there is a calm, serene beach with really pretty rocks. Continuing on, you can actually hike to Thors Well from here. I can't believe I'd never even heard of this place until I stumbled upon it by accident after visiting Thors Well. Personally I actually found the churn more impressive and mesmerizing to watch.

Super easy hike down to devils churn with accessible parking. I would highly recommend checking to…read moresee where the tide is at before going down for your safety. Came here with my friend on our way to Florence .

Photos
Devil's Churn
Devil's Churn - Info about Devils Churn day use.

Info about Devils Churn day use.

Devil's Churn

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Spouting Horn

Spouting Horn

4.8(6 reviews)
10.9 mi

We made a stop a little way down from the spouting horn parking near the visitor center but was…read moreable to walk the trail from our car to the spouting horn. I personally don't see anything but it was a nice stop for the kids to walk, stretch their legs, and see the tide pools. I sat down on the bench and surprisingly found reception there. The trails are all paved to the chair but then there is a sharp decline towards the water. It was a windy cold day so we didn't stay very long. We went in mid July and the blackberries were starting to come out so this would be a fun area to explore. We got a few blackberries but they were mostly tart.

Wonderful stop along highway 101 between Florence and Yachats. Instead of going up to the Cape…read morePerpetua Visitors Center, we stopped at the small lot by the information placards and wooden bridge right off the highway. The parking area can only hold about 4 vehicles. It's about a half mile to spouting horn from the little parking area. The trail is a loop and takes you right back to the bridge. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the trail. The trail is paved and well-maintained. There are no restrooms along this trail. If you need a restroom, you will need to go up to the the visitors center. Come during high tide for the most dramatic spouts and splashes. Highly recommend.

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Spouting Horn
Spouting Horn - Spouting Horn during high tide as a wave comes in

Spouting Horn during high tide as a wave comes in

Spouting Horn - Spouting Horn at high tide towards the end of a wave exploding in

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Spouting Horn at high tide towards the end of a wave exploding in

804 Trail - Surprisingly lots of blooms along the trail even in August!! (2025)

804 Trail

4.9(18 reviews)
14.1 mi

This is a great trail along the ocean in Yachats. It begins in a neighborhood and takes you down to…read morethe beach where you can see tidepools. There are a few benches along the trail where you can sit and relax and take in the gorgeous ocean view. It's most popular in the mornings, for tidepools, and evenings, for beautiful sunsets. The trail is pretty flat and expands about 2 miles. It connects to a couple of other trails in Yachats to the south, the Oregon Coast Trail (1 mile) and the Amanda Trail (1 mile). The trails are well maintained and perfect for a casual walk to take in the fresh ocean air. I would highly recommend!

I've returned to this magnificent trail so many times over the years - my review is long overdue…read morebut it's kind of a hidden gem and I'm hoping it'll stay that way lol! This is probably my #1 fave trail of all time. It's not technically difficult by any means - it's short, almost entirely flat, and very well maintained. But it holds my heart bc there's a veritable feast for my lens in every nook and cranny and the environment changes year after year due to storms, tides, and sand levels rising and falling - a never ending photographer's paradise! And no doubt I'll be returning year after year for a long time. The trail runs about 1.5 miles from the sleepy coastal town of Yachats to its dead-end on a long sandy beach in the Cape Perpetua protected marine area. To say the tide pools here are amazing is an understatement. They are unparalleled! I've never seen so many colorful starfish, anemones, snails, barnacles, and tons of other undersea creepy crawlers anywhere else. The sunset and sunrise views are magical as well. And there are interesting pockets and tunnels created by mysterious wind swept coastal pines - just glorious! The giant dark basalt boulders are covered in so many species of barnacles and always changing shape due to erosion from wind and waves - creating so many fascinating pools to explore. The trail meanders past my fave hotel of all time too - the Overleaf Lodge. This is my happy place - my heart is always here. If you ever have the chance to visit, take it.

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804 Trail - This rock was covered in hundreds of anemones! The tide pools along the trail are incredible to say the least!

This rock was covered in hundreds of anemones! The tide pools along the trail are incredible to say the least!

804 Trail - Goose barnacles surrounding the anemones! The tide pools along the trail are incredible to say the least!

Goose barnacles surrounding the anemones! The tide pools along the trail are incredible to say the least!

804 Trail - Views from the trail as the tide comes in

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Views from the trail as the tide comes in

Sea Lion Caves - active - Updated July 2026

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