The Oregon Coast, Florence - Sea Lion Caves

We visited the Sea Lion Caves in August. I had been there as a child but it had been a long time.

It is much improved. There is clearly identified auxiliary parking across the street and new artwork, which perhaps is more cosmetic.

My memories are long ago enough to be not completely clear, but it feels like the paths and access to the cave is improved as well.

That is not to say that the accessibility is perfect. There are steps in the building, and about 400 yards of walking on a somewhat steep grade. I just seem to remember it being worse before. They do still have to work with the grade of the land without disrupting the natural environment too much.

Most of all the experience within the cave is improved. There is more signage available and a short film that help you learn about the sea lions while you spend time with them.

This includes geological information as well as acknowledgment of the other species. We could see at least one Pigeon Guillemot inside the cave, but outside you can see other birds and whales. Staff is very knowledgeable about the local wildlife.

There is an outside viewing platform as well, as there are often sea lions on the rocks outside the cave.

A friend recently visited with her family. They asked, and the sea lions were not in the cave at that time. They did not go in, but also they did not have to pay and then be disappointed, and there were no hard feelings.

That can also raise a concern, as it is a long drive to take without seeing any sea lions. Considering the time of year makes sense, but it is also a nice drive along rocky coasts and forests, and a great view of the Heceta Head Lighthouse.

We enjoyed our trip, and we combined it with a stop in Newport, but we would have been disappointed if there weren't sea lions.

http://www.sealioncaves.com/