Things to Do in Florence, Oregon: Sea Lion Caves, Dunes & Old Town

Florence sits where the Siuslaw River meets the sea, with a charming riverfront Old Town on one side and the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America on the other. Here's what not to miss.

Wander Historic Old Town

Florence's Old Town is the walkable heart of the city — a few riverfront blocks of galleries, boutiques, chowder houses, and coffee shops beneath the iconic Siuslaw River Bridge. It's the perfect place to start or end a day.

Sea Lion Caves and Heceta Head

North of town on Highway 101, the Sea Lion Caves is the largest sea cave in America and home to a wild colony of Steller sea lions — an elevator drops you to a viewing platform inside the cavern. A few miles up the road, Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed on the West Coast, with a short trail to the light and a historic keeper's house. The turnouts between the two are prime winter and spring whale-watching spots.

Sandboard the Oregon Dunes

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area begins just south of Florence and runs for 40 miles. Rent a sandboard, book a dune-buggy or ATV tour, or hike into the sand — the John Dellenback Dunes Trail offers the biggest dunes. Sandmaster Park in town is a good first stop for rentals and lessons.

Hit the beach

Florence has sand for everyone: North Jetty, Heceta, and Baker beaches north of the river (free parking at several), and South Jetty to the south, which requires a recreation pass. Dogs are welcome on the beaches. Heceta Beach is the local favorite for sunset.

Quirky stops

Don't miss the Darlingtonia State Natural Site, a free boardwalk through a bog of native cobra lily carnivorous plants, or Jessie M. Honeyman State Park, where forested freshwater lakes back right up to the dunes.

Where to stay in Florence

Base yourself near Old Town or out on Heceta Beach and book direct — no service fees. Browse vacation rentals in Florence, from beachfront homes like Seaweed on Heceta Beach to comfortable getaways like The Hidden Overlook. Each is booked directly with the owner or local manager.

Exploring more of the coast? See things to do on the Oregon Coast or browse all Oregon Coast vacation rentals.