Sea Lion Caves

About this spectacle

Sea Lion Caves on the Oregon coast is one of the largest sea caves in North America, where wild Steller sea lions haul out on rocky ledges inside a dramatic wave-carved chamber. Visitors descend by elevator to an observation gallery where the sounds of barking, splashing, and thundering surf fill the cavern. The cave's cathedral-like ceiling soars overhead while dozens to hundreds of sea lions jostle for position on the rocks below. The smell of salt air and sea mammals is overpowering and wholly unforgettable. In spring and summer the colony moves outside to adjacent rocky outcrops, so winter months offer the most reliable cave viewing. The roar of the Pacific echoes through every corner, and shafts of natural light filter through sea-level openings, illuminating the amber-furred animals in dramatic fashion.

When to go

Jan — Dec, peak Nov — Mar

Getting there

Nearest airport: EUG. Nearest city: Eugene.

Booking options

Goyova doesn't process bookings directly. When you tap "Plan this trip" in the app, you'll see options from our partner providers — accommodation, tours, transport — with affiliate links where applicable. See our affiliate disclosure for details.