A Cannon Beach vacation offers the perfect gateway to exploring the Oregon Coast’s stunning beaches and state parks. Cannon Beach is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, from rugged cliffs and tide pools to lush coastal forests. Whether strolling along the sandy shores, spotting wildlife, or simply soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere, the Oregon Coast’s beaches and state parks make for an unforgettable adventure.
Haystack Rock
Haystack Rock is one of the Oregon Coast’s most iconic landmarks. Rising 235 feet out of the ocean, Haystack is home to several bird species and a number of plant and animal life. When Haystack Rock is at low tide, you can walk up to it and explore marine life like starfish, anemones, and nudibranchs (just no poking or prodding) in the tide pools that surround Haystack. Puffins make their appearance on Haystack Rock from April through early July. Viewing Haystack Rock is easy; just park in one of the nearby parking lots or side streets in Cannon Beach and walk towards the towering sea stack. If your goal is to explore the tide pools, you’ll have to wait until low tide when you can actually walk up to the rock.
Hug Point
Just a five-mile drive south of Cannon Beach, Hug Point Recreation Site is known for its easy access to the beach, forested picnic areas, a seasonal waterfall, caves, and fascinating history. Before the highway was built, pioneers traveling in this direction in their stagecoaches had to hug the point very tight to avoid getting wet, hence the name Hug Point.
Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park, like most of the Oregon Coast, provides visitors with stunning views of the dramatic coastline. The park stretches 9 miles and provides visitors access to activities like tidepooling, surfing, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Hike the popular Clatsop Loop Trail or enjoy a picnic lunch as you watch surfers brave the cold waters to catch a wave. Pets are allowed at Ecola State Park but must be leashed.
Oswald West State Park
This 2,484 park is home to Short Sand Beach, Cape Falcon, and Neahkahnie Mountain. Spanning four miles along the coastline, you’ll find plenty of activities at Oswald West to keep you entertained. Hike the trails within the park, enjoy a beach day with the pup and family, or surf and kayak the waters of the Pacific.
