A few miles south of Yachats, there's a short hike up to the Haceta Head lighthouse, which contains Oregon s most powerful beacon. This is the most photographed lighthouse on the central coast. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area to the south starts in Florence and covers about a 40-mile stretch of the coast. The dunes are from 50 feet to 3 miles wide, reaching as high as 300 feet in some areas. Trees, grass, and shrubs grow in some areas of the dunes, and other areas are totally barren.
Stables offer horseback riding on parts of the beach.
Or you can choose an area that is totally deserted and peaceful with only the sounds of the water and wind to keep you company. Educational opportunities abound on the central coast with the Marine Science Center, Oregon Coast Aquarium , and Sea Lion Caves , each a short drive away. Numerous state parks provide endless hiking opportunities at all levels. Found in many ancient Mesopotamian cities, ziggurats were step-shaped, representing the ascent into the heavens where the gods reigned. The outside was constructed of materials that were resistant to the elements, and the terraces were often landscaped with shrubs and trees.