Check out the\u00a0Oregon Coast Lighthouse Roundup<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Simpson Reef overlook<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
25 Steps<\/p>\n\n\n\n I always stay longer than anticipated when we stop at Simpson Reef overlook. Protected from the wind more than any other easily accessible part of the cape, it is a peaceful place to take in the view. Seals of several types lounge, frolic, and bark on rocks of Shell Island. Pelicans enjoy ridge lifting the rock face. Beyond the seals, the slightly more distant reef is part of Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the cape\u2019s North Cove can be glimpsed to the south. A helpful sign in the parking area shows a map of the area and describes the native wildlife.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 100 Steps<\/p>\n\n\n\n Perched above the cape\u2019s Middle Cove, this structure offers a rocky seat to view the wide-open ocean stretching to the horizon. My visits to this destination have always been brief. The views are spectacular, but so is the wind! Continuously exposed to the harsh elements, this area has withstood years and years of varied Oregon precipitation, from drizzle to deluge. You may need to weather some yourself in order to partake of the sights here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 125 Steps<\/p>\n\n\n\n After several visits, I still kept sensing I was missing something in Cape Arago State Park, like I was overlooking a hidden gem. On my visit in February 2012, I was determined to find it. As we passed this grassy picnic area, the wind was raging and it was starting to rain. Still, I requested my husband escort me to the bench near the cliff\u2019s edge. Not at all hidden but certainly a gem, even in the harsh conditions of our visit the stop was definitely worthwhile. The benches afford prime viewing of South Cove, which lays beneath the steep cliffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"cape-arago-state-park-9957402\"](\"https:\/\/thisamericandream.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Cape-Arago-State-Park-9957402-1-1024x366.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRock structure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Picnic viewpoint<\/h2>\n\n\n\n