This tiny Oregon coastal community--population 635--sits on the Pacific Ocean with the Coast mountain range rising behind it. The name Yachats comes from a Chinook Indian word meaning "dark waters at the foot of the mountain." A popular vacation spot with both Oregonians and out-of-state visitors, the town and surrounding area have more than their share of natural beauty. Whether you want non-stop outdoor activity or just a quiet, relaxing retreat, Yachats provides both.
Whale Watching
Migrating gray whales travel up and down the Oregon Coast, very close to shore, all summer long. Two of the best whale viewpoints are in Yachats---Cape Perpetua and Cook's Chasm. Traveling farther from shore in the winter and spring, trained volunteers help visitors see the whales--everyday from 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.--at both viewpoints. If you want to get up close and personal, take one of the many commercial whale-watching excursions leaving from the area.
Wave and Storm Watching
Large volcanic rocks lining the Yachats coastline--along with the Yachats River spilling into the Pacific Ocean--create some of the most spectacular waves on the Oregon Coast. Wild and unpredictable sneaker waves come out of nowhere--so standing on the rocks close to the water is not advised. Wave watching in Yachats is not limited to the summer months; visitors bundle up and come to the coast in the winter too, when storms make the waves even bigger.
Walking or Running
With more than 6 miles of sandy beach and three state parks, plenty of places to run exist in Yachats. The historic 804 Trail follows the beach from north Yachats, south to Smelts State Park and Yachats State Park. Along the way you will see sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, along with rocky coves and tide pools. Part of the trail is wheelchair-accessible.
Hiking
Gerdemann Botanical Preserve's public footpath provides a nice, easy hike for the whole family as it follows a path along the creek, through thick woods and giant rhododendrons.
Moderately difficult, the Amanda Hike starts in Yachats, finishing at the Cape Perpetua viewpoint---just over 2 miles total. The view of the Pacific from the highest point on the Oregon coast is well worth the climb. Continue hiking, if you choose, on the numerous trail heads starting at Perpetua.
Family Activities
The world's largest Stellar sea lion cave is 15 minutes south of Yachats. Everyone will enjoy viewing the hundreds of barking sea lions. The cost of admission for adults is $11 to $14 (as of May 2010), and children 3 to 12 are $8 to $10. Kids under 2 are free. A visit to Heceta Head Lighthouse--built in 1894--offers a glimpse of life on the Oregon coast in the late 19th century.
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