Halfway between Cape Perpetua and Florence, a small bridge just south of Carl Washburne State Park marks the turnoff to Heceta Head Lighthouse, perhaps the most photographed beacon in the United States. Built in 1893, it was named for the Spanish mariner who is credited with being the first European to set foot in the region. You’ll have to be content with gazing at it across the cove from a small but rarely crowded beach, unless you stay at the quaint old lighthouse keeper’s quarters, restored as an unforgettable B&B ($150 and up; 541/547-3696).

  Farther along US-101, 10 miles north of Florence, traffic slows to a stop at the gift shop that serves as the entrance to Sea Lion Caves (daily; $8). You can ride an elevator down to America’s largest sea cave and the only mainland rookery for the Steller sea lion. Fall and winter offer the best times to see (and smell!) these animals. They are visible for free from a viewpoint 100 yards up US-101.