Living on the CoastOregon Coast Real Estate November 29, 2009

A Peaceful Bird Sanctuary

siletz bay

The Siletz Bay is a shallow-water oasis of birdwatching located just south of Lincoln City, Oregon.

If you drive past the new oceanfront and bayfront condos at the southern boundry of Lincoln City you will find hundreds of square miles of a kayaker’s and birdwatcher’s garden of delights. This federally designated area contains shoreline, flood plain, and grassland that is the home of scores of Oregon coastal birds and wildlife. Hawks and eagles compete with Canadian geese and all types of waterfowl for nesting and feeding space. Even wild swans can sometimes be spotted if conditions are just right.

Although no motorized boats are allowed, canoes and kayaks are welcome to share in the world class birding opportunities. Closer to the beach the tidal flats of the Siletz bay offer clams and cockles. At the mouth of the bay folks can even use their crab pots… right from the shore!

For photographers the opportunities are limitless as the evershifting light plays among the small tree covered islands. Sunset will often seem to light the deep forest with an otherworldly golden glow. And all this is located within a ten minute bike ride to your Oregon coast property.

Coastal EventsLiving on the CoastOregon Coast Real EstateVisitor Favorites November 14, 2009

Yaquina Lighthouse Beacon Beckons

lighthouse

It’s true… They’ve opened the lighthouse to the public!

One mile north of Newport,  the Yaquina Head Lighthouse has been a beacon to shipping since 1873.  It is the tallest lighthouse in Oregon and now has been opened by the park service.

Costumed employees invite visitors to climb the spiraling  staircase all the way to the top where there is a fantastic view of the Oregon Coast. This is the type of view usually restricted to folks owning beachfront Oregon Coast real estate.

There is also a bird rookery and an interperative center located on Yaquina head. They recently started charging 5.00 per carload as an entry fee. But the views, the secret beach, the rookery, and above all the lighthouse, makes this the best bargain for sightseers on the central Oregon coast.