The world famous Sea Lion Caves is the only known remaining home of wild stellar sea lions on the North American mainland. Heceta Head Light and Keeper's House overlooks the crashing waters of Devil's Elbow tide pools and babbling Cape Creek. Trek up to the lighthouse and keeper's house with daily tours during the summer and on weekends the rest of the year. Continuing north, you will find the highest point on the Oregon Coast, with spectacular views, at Cape Perpetua. The Visitor's Center is open daily from May until October and weekends during the winter, and features movies, exhibits and an observation area for whale-watching.Going south, the Oregon Dunes Recreation Area stretches 42 miles from Florence to North Bend. With many over 300 feet high, the recreational activities on these massive dunes range from horseback riding to dune buggy tours and ATV rentals. Enjoy lakeside camping and water sports at Woahink, Cleawox, Siltcoos, Tahkenitch and more area lakes. The Siuslaw River offers excellent salmon and steelhead fishing, as well as clamming at the tidal flats in the estuary area along side Highway 126. Two golf courses, amusements, driving range, and bowling alley round out the recreational offerings. But Florence isn't just for those who like to play outdoors. Florence also offers boutique shopping in Old Town, antiquing at the Rhody Junction, gaming at Three Rivers Casino, and great dining at a number of restaurants from traditional chowder house to smoky bbq to Thai. Several times a year Florence hosts community festivals, including the Rhododendron Festival, the 3rd oldest flower festival on the west coast. For tranquility, relaxation and fun, your Florence Oregon vacation is sure to be unforgettable. | |