What Is The Look-Out on Cape Foulweather?

This is a high-perched, historic gift shop that dates back to the early days of Oregon tourism!

What Makes It Historical?

With the completion of the Oregon Coast Highway in 1931, and an increase in motor tourism along that road, entrepreneurs like Wilbur “Buck” and Anna Badley saw an opportunity to make some cash! What began as the Fair Weather Coffee Bar in 1937 evolved over a year into what’s become an American classic: the roadside gift shop! With their cartoon mascot “Lookie” peering out over the ocean, the Badleys sold curios and stuff that had washed ashore until 1963!

After Pearl Harbor, The Look-Out at Cape Foulweather (so named by Captain James Cook on March 7, 1778) became a surveillance spot for the U.S. Coast Guard, with 30-mile views on clear days! Up to six Coast Guard personnel stayed in the gift shop from 1942-44, shutting down normal operations, while Anna Badley cooked for the Guardsmen. It was a unique collaboration between the military and civilians while fear of attack rippled up and down the West Coast!

How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?

• Become a member of the Oregon Historical Society!
• Donate to Oregon State Parks!
• Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!

How Do I Get There?

4905 Otter Crest Loop
Depoe Bay, OR 97341
(Take Me There!)

When Should I Visit?

Hard to say! It was closed when I visited because of COVID-19!