Exploring Cape Meares: A Scenic Coastal Gem on the Oregon Coast
Perched on the edge of Oregon’s rugged coastline, Cape Meares offers a breathtaking combination of natural beauty, wildlife viewing, and historical charm. From its iconic lighthouse and panoramic ocean views to old-growth forests and rare Sitka spruce trees, this destination is a must-visit stop just outside of Tillamook.
Whether you’re road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway or staying in a nearby beach town like Oceanside or Netarts, Cape Meares promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, photographers, and history buffs alike.
In this guide, you’ll discover what makes Cape Meares one of the most scenic and accessible capes on the Oregon Coast, along with practical tips for making the most of your visit.
Where Is Cape Meares?
Cape Meares is located about 10 miles west of Tillamook, Oregon, and sits within the Three Capes Scenic Route, a beautiful alternative to U.S. Highway 101 that winds through Cape Kiwanda, Cape Lookout, and Cape Meares itself.
This headland is part of the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, which is managed by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. It’s free to visit and easy to access, with paved trails and plenty of well-maintained viewing areas.
Getting to Cape Meares
From Tillamook:
Take OR-131 west toward Oceanside. Just before Oceanside, turn right on Cape Meares Loop. Follow signs to Cape Meares Scenic Viewpoint and Lighthouse. Travel time is around 20–25 minutes.
Parking:
Free parking is available near the lighthouse trailhead. During summer weekends, it can get busy by mid-morning, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended.
Highlights of Cape Meares
1. Cape Meares Lighthouse
One of the shortest lighthouses on the Oregon Coast, the Cape Meares Lighthouse stands only 38 feet tall, but because it sits on a 200-foot cliff, its light once reached over 21 miles out to sea. Built in 1890, this historic lighthouse is open seasonally for self-guided tours and offers stunning photo opportunities.
What to Know:
The lighthouse is usually open from May through September
The lens is a rare first-order Fresnel lens, handcrafted in France
Interpretive signs share the story of lighthouse keepers and the building’s history
The short, paved trail to the lighthouse is wheelchair and stroller accessible
2. Scenic Viewpoints
Cape Meares features several panoramic lookouts with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, Three Arch Rocks, and Cape Lookout in the distance. These cliffside platforms are ideal for watching the ocean, spotting birds, and during the right season, catching sight of migrating gray whales.
Best Views:
North-facing overlook with views toward Tillamook Bay
South-facing overlook with views of the rocky coastline
Elevated spots to watch waves crashing hundreds of feet below
Bring binoculars or a zoom lens if you’re hoping to spot bald eagles, peregrine falcons, or seabirds nesting along the cliffs.
3. The Octopus Tree
Just a short walk from the main viewpoint lies one of the most unique natural wonders on the Oregon Coast — the Octopus Tree. This massive Sitka spruce is estimated to be 250–300 years old and gets its name from the way its trunk splits into several large limbs that twist upward like giant tentacles.
Why It’s Special:
It measures over 46 feet in circumference
The tree is believed to have been used by Native Americans for ceremonial purposes
Interpretive signs explain the theories about its shape and history
It’s a quick five-minute walk from the parking lot and worth the short detour.
4. Hiking Trails and Nature Walks
While Cape Meares is not known for long-distance hiking, the area offers several short, scenic trails through lush coastal forest and past windswept headlands.
Trail Options:
Cape Meares Lighthouse Trail: 0.2 miles, paved, with interpretive signs
Octopus Tree Trail: 0.3 miles, gentle slope, forested
Big Spruce Trail: A short path to one of Oregon’s largest Sitka spruce trees (also nearby)
For longer hikes, nearby Cape Lookout State Park has moderate to strenuous trails with more elevation gain and longer coastal views.
5. Whale Watching at Cape Meares
Cape Meares is one of the best spots on the Oregon Coast for whale watching, particularly during the gray whale migration seasons:
Winter migration: Mid-December through January
Spring migration: Late March through June
The park offers an excellent vantage point, with sweeping views across the ocean and benches to sit and scan the horizon. Volunteers are sometimes on hand during peak whale watching weeks to help visitors spot and identify marine life.
Best Time to Visit Cape Meares
Cape Meares can be visited year-round, but the best time for clear views and wildlife sightings is late spring through early fall. Fog is common in the mornings, so visiting in the afternoon may provide better visibility.
Seasonal Tips:
Summer: Ideal for clear skies and sunsets. The lighthouse is open.
Fall: Cooler temps and fewer crowds; foliage adds beautiful color.
Winter: Excellent whale watching; trails can be muddy.
Spring: Migrating birds and fresh greenery make for great photography.
Accessibility and Amenities
Restrooms: Available at the main parking area
Picnic tables: Yes, though limited
Paved paths: Suitable for wheelchairs and strollers
Pets: Allowed on leash
Cell service: May be limited depending on your carrier
There are no food or beverage vendors at Cape Meares, so plan to bring your own water and snacks.
Nearby Attractions
If you’re spending a day in the area, consider adding these stops to your itinerary:
Oceanside Beach – A quiet beach town with tidepools and a sea cave tunnel
Netarts Bay – Great for kayaking, clamming, and seafood dining
Tillamook Creamery – Just a 25-minute drive inland for food and fun
Cape Lookout – Offers longer hikes and campground options
Tips for Visiting Cape Meares
Check road conditions in advance, especially after storms (rockslides have caused closures in the past)
Bring a windbreaker — coastal winds can be strong, even in summer
Don’t rely on GPS alone; have a map or download directions beforehand
Arrive early or late in the day to enjoy peaceful views without crowds
Cape Meares is especially popular with photographers during golden hour
Why You Should Visit Cape Meares
Cape Meares is one of those rare places where natural beauty, history, and accessibility come together. Whether you’re walking among centuries-old trees, watching waves roll beneath you, or learning about lighthouse history, the cape offers a quiet, rewarding escape from the busier stretches of the coast.
As part of Oregon’s famed Three Capes Scenic Route, it’s a stop that’s both memorable and easy to fit into your travel plans. Take your time here. The views are endless, and the memories will last long after your road trip ends.
