Sea Lion Caves [oregon]

The west coast’s Highway 101 is a real wildlife playground. As you drive down the coast, you’ll notice there’s a variety of animals playing in the ocean – we spotted whales several times just from the roadside!

If you fancy a bit of a closer look, then a visit to the Sea Lion Caves is a great choice. One of the Highway 101 most fun side-road experiences, the privately owned wildlife sanctuary is located just north of Florence, easily accessed from the highway and really fun for both adults and kids.

As you arrive, you’ll walk through the gift shop, where the fudge is insanely good, before you go down the elevator to reach the caves. The sea lions are very loud, and really rather stinky, but it was fantastic to get a glimpse at the colony’s life, witnessing the struggle as they get thrown off their rock each time a wave strikes. It was so dark and difficult to get a good picture, so I’m afraid this is all I have!

When you exit the cave, you can walk around a little and see the sea lions hanging out outside, living the life sun-bathing and lazing about – lucky fellas.

Personally it wasn’t one of the most memorable things I’ve done, but it certainly is one of son Charlie’s favourite moments from our 6 month USA roadtrip, it was a real treat watching the sea lions in their natural habitat.

How to get to the Sea Lion Caves

Entry Fees & Opening Hours:

The Sea Lion caves open at 9am and close at 5.30pm

Cost: Adults $14 / Children 5-12 $8 / Under 4s go free

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