Cape Arago State Park, State park in Coos County, Oregon.
Cape Arago State Park sits along high cliffs with two coves featuring sandy beaches and views across the Pacific Ocean. Trails lead to lookout points, tide pools, and coastal areas where visitors can explore the shoreline.
James Cook named this headland Cape Gregory in 1778, but it was renamed in the 1800s to honor French physicist François Arago. The new name eventually became the official and lasting designation for this coastal point.
The coast was home to Native American peoples who relied on abundant fish and marine life for their survival over many generations. This deep connection to the sea remains part of the region's identity today.
The park has several marked trails leading to viewpoints and tide pools, with areas set aside for wildlife watching. Visitors should be ready for changing coastal conditions and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the different routes.
Shell Island, visible from the north cove, functions as a protected refuge where hundreds of seals and sea lions gather year-round. This offshore rocky outcrop attracts marine mammals that visitors can observe from shore.
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