North to the Sea Lion Caves


The Sea Lion Caves are a "one of a kind" experience on the Oregon Coast. Most of the trip north of the rally site will be on Hwy 101, right along the coast.
In the past I might have been hesitant to suggest this ride, because Hwy 101 has traditionally been crowded with campers, RVs, trailers, etc. However, due to the high cost of fuel this year, I think there will be fewer large vehicles out on the road.
The ride itself is a lovely one in nice weather. However, do remember to take adequate riding gear just in case.
Allow time to stop at look outs and/or lighthouses along the way. The town of Florence is just before you get to the caves and would be a good stop for gas and lunch. There is a fee to enter the caves.

Sea Lion Caves

Sea Lion Caves near Florence Oregon


The Sea Lion Caves (the world's largest Sea Cave according to Guinness) are located appx. 11 miles north of Florence and offers an awe-inspiring, intimate view of Sea Lions in their natural habitat. Descend over 200-feet into the world's largest and most spectacular sea cave. The cave is the home of the wild Steller sea lion, primarily during the fall and winter months and is called the hauling area. The rock ledge below the lookout located just outside the cave is the sea lions home during the spring and summer, and is where they breed and bear their young. Sea lions live at Sea Lion Caves year round.

Sea Lion Caves riding directions and link

Distance: 65.03 miles Time: 1 hr 48 mins
  • Starting in CHARLESTON, OR on CAPE ARAGO HWY go toward TROLLER RD - go 3.7 mi
  • Continue on EMPIRE BLVD - go 1.0 mi
  • Turn Right on NEWMARK AVE - go 1.4 mi
  • Continue on NEWMARK ST - go 1.5 mi
  • Turn Left on TREMONT ST(US-101) - go 0.9 mi
  • Continue to follow US-101 - go 45.4 mi
  • Turn Right on 8TH ST - go 0.1 mi
  • Turn Left on QUINCE ST - go 0.3 mi
  • Turn Right on OREGON COAST HWY(US-101) - go 10.7 mi
  • Arrive at 91560 HIGHWAY 101, FLORENCE, on the Left