Clifftop Cocktails
The idea for this image began after my very first visit to this location. The full set up included an end table, a set of Xavier Pauchard A chairs, a mouth-blown glass hurricane, and crystal whiskey tumblers - all set against the wildest of settings.
Luckily, more than a year after the idea was born, my good friend David was up to the challenge of bringing this vision to life. For anyone who has made this four mile hike, you know what it took to carry all these props to location. Especially considering the return hike was through pitch-black forest with headlamps.
An epic sunset made for a spectacular evening on the towering cliffs high above the Pacific. Surrounded by blooming Seashore Lupine, Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon with a Luxardo cherry provided the perfect toast between friends to end this day!
Twilight over the Pacific
The Location
A number of years ago, I stumbled upon one of the coolest drone images of these wild cliffs somewhere along the Pacific. I was living in southern Florida at the time and knew I had to see this spectacular place for myself one day.
My first task was to review satellite imagery along the Oregon coast. From the drone image, I could see the coastal cliffs had a distinctive L-shape to them where a person could stand on the tip of the point. Within a few short minutes, I had found the only patch of coastline with this feature.
Floras Lake State Natural Area is a relatively unknown spot except to locals. It has become more well known over the past few years, but is still quiet and wild. Markings or indicators of the area are extremely sparse and one truly needs to be looking for it to find it. These are my favorite places.
Miles of trails weave throughout this recreational area, but two main tracks lead to either Blacklock Point or along the coast to Floras Lake. Blacklock Point itself is a fantastic place, but this little unnamed point that is quite hidden is the real treasure.
Sandstone cliffs rise over 100 feet above the beach below. Low tide reveals brilliant patterns in the sand that the surf leaves behind. Should you be lucky enough to visit this location on a clear evening before the marine layer enshrouds the shoreline, the orange cliffs illuminate with a magical glow from the setting sun.
Clifftop Views
A New Friend
Tobias Meyer, a creative thinker from Switzerland, was the gentleman who originally posted the aerial image I had seen. He is an incredibly talented individual and his work speaks for itself. Should you ever find yourself in Biel, be sure to look him up.
Over the past few years, Tobias and I have become good friends. We often correspond and look forward to the possibility of future adventures together. My image below is very similar to the one Tobias posted years earlier. We both agree that places like this stay in your mind long after the adventure concludes.
Having been here many times over the past few years, it is a place I long to return time and again. Visiting in late May or early June while the coastal wildflowers are in full bloom brings the experience to another level.
Offshore Views
Recommended Places
The closest towns to Floras Lake State Natural Area are Langlois and Port Orford. Many superb places exist within this small geographic area. Cape Blanco State Park is only ten minutes away and is another highly recommended place to visit! Be sure not to miss the historic Hughes House.
The Langlois Market is one of our favorite places to stop and enjoy a world-famous hotdog with homemade sweet & spicy mustard. It’s also a great place to pick up any last minute items for your day of hiking.
Redfish is a wonderful spot to have dinner in Port Orford. Their menu consists of locally-caught fish and seafood. The view from the restaurant, looking across the Pacific Ocean toward the Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve, is mesmerizing.
Port Orford is one of the best locations along the Oregon coast to see the gray whale migration up close. They often feed in the protected waters of Nellies and Tichenor coves. If you enjoy paddling or wildlife viewing from the sea, South Coast Tours is the place to go. Ask for Dave and enjoy your time surrounded by magnificent sea life.
Birds-Eye
Conclusion
Should you find yourself spending time along this beautiful section of the Oregon coast, be sure not to skip hiking throughout Floras Lake State Natural Area. Blacklock Point is a gem you won’t want to miss!
Thank you for reading this post and please leave any comments or questions below. Adventure is out there!