Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach: Address, Haystack Rock Reviews: 5/5
Haystack Rock
Haystack Rock
5
About
Haystack Rock is a unique 235 feet monolith that attracts wildlife and tourists alike and is part of the Oregon Coast’s geological history, formed millions of year ago by lava flows that created many of the dramatic capes and headlands along the coast. Haystack Rock is protected under U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a seabird nesting colony and it is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge and is a State protected Marine Garden. The Rock is home to nesting seabirds in the summer and marine invertebrates all year. Tidepool seekers are beckoned by its wonders every day. The Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) is a stewardship and environmental educational program whose mission is to protect, through education, the intertidal and bird ecology of the Marine Garden and Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge at Haystack Rock. HRAP offers an extensive interpretive program on the beach during the spring and summer months around low tide.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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Top ways to experience Haystack Rock
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
46 within 3 miles

Castaways
648
1.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Caribbean • Cajun & Creole • Seafood

Cannon Beach Chocolate Cafe
223
1.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Dessert

Cannon Beach Bakery
308
1.3 mi$ • Bakeries • American

Crepe Neptune
315
1.3 mi$ • Dessert • Vegetarian Friendly • Gluten Free Options

Public Coast Brewing Company
229
1.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Bar

Insomnia Coffee Co.
513
1.4 mi$ • Quick Bites • Cafe

Ecola Seafoods Restaurant & Market
700
1.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Seafood

Bistro
250
1.3 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Seafood • Vegetarian Friendly

Pizza a'fetta
703
1.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Pizza • Vegetarian Friendly

Tom's Fish and Chips
624
1.3 mi$ • Quick Bites • American • Seafood
Attractions
35 within 6 miles

Ecola State Park
1,852
0 ftState Parks

Hug Point State Park
519
0 ftState Parks

Arch Cape Carronade Replica
1
0 ftHistoric Sites

Cannon Beach
2,509
1.9 miBeaches

Icefire Glassworks
137
1.8 miArt Galleries

Tillamook Rock Lighthouse
206
1.4 miLighthouses

Seaside Beach
275
Beaches

Coaster Theatre
80
1.4 miTheaters

Turnaround at Seaside
808
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Tillamook Head National Recreation Trail
106
2.1 miHiking Trails
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
3,250 reviews
Excellent
2,672
Very good
485
Average
76
Poor
10
Terrible
7
Jasmine G
31 contributions
Oct 2020
It is hard to fathom that just beyond the unassuming streets of shops you find a spectacular beach and rock formations.
Within walking distance of our hotel, I made half a dozen trips to walk or just gaze upon this wonder. An evening at sunset is particularly spectacular. Beach blankets dot the area with small bonfires.
After years of extensive travel throughout the United States, this is one of very few places I have returned to repeatedly. I will continue to come back for the peace and beauty of such an easily accessible beach.
Within walking distance of our hotel, I made half a dozen trips to walk or just gaze upon this wonder. An evening at sunset is particularly spectacular. Beach blankets dot the area with small bonfires.
After years of extensive travel throughout the United States, this is one of very few places I have returned to repeatedly. I will continue to come back for the peace and beauty of such an easily accessible beach.
Written May 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ernie S
Orange County, CA1,370 contributions
May 2022
It was a long walk from our inn situated in north Cannon Beach but worth the effort to see Haystack Rock up close. The rock is surprisingly green and lush, with meadows on top, and most interesting is a huge nesting area for many sea birds. The highlight of my visit was watching thousands of birds screech in alarm, then fill the sky in a black cloud of panic. Out of this swarming body of birds came one figure, a Bald Eagle, clutching an unfortunate nesting bird. It was an amazing closeup view of raw Nature.
Written June 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Arjun S
St. Paul, United States173 contributions
Jun 2021
The beach is a popular spot for many to sit by a bonfire and watch the sunset. The rock itself is beautiful and adds perspective to the endless Pacific Ocean. Dress warmly and be prepared for a potential sprinkle of rain.
Written June 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Hannah Davis
Cookeville, TN50 contributions
Aug 2019
When we set off on our Oregon trip, Haystack Rock was one of the most highly talked about and recommended places for us to visit. We went in early August around 2-3 PM. We found parking next to Mo's Restaurant and walked from there to Haystack Rock.
Once we made it to the rock we saw that there was a large area sanctioned off by ropes and stakes and lots of signs about staying out of these areas and not poking or collecting any of the tide pool creatures. However, despite all of this, there was lots of people (both adults and children) picking up anemones, poking them, catching other wildlife in nets and trampling through restricted areas. We also saw dogs digging in the sand in the restricted areas. The area was covered up with people and due to the harassment of the wildlife, all the anemones were closed and the other tide pool inhabitants were gone or fleeing.
I have heard many good reviews of this area, so I feel like we may have arrived at a bad time. This would be an excellent area to visit if it was less crowded and the individuals visiting were respectful of the wildlife.
I would definitely still recommend stopping, as this is a must-see Oregon landmark, but I would try hard to visit during a less crowded time.
Once we made it to the rock we saw that there was a large area sanctioned off by ropes and stakes and lots of signs about staying out of these areas and not poking or collecting any of the tide pool creatures. However, despite all of this, there was lots of people (both adults and children) picking up anemones, poking them, catching other wildlife in nets and trampling through restricted areas. We also saw dogs digging in the sand in the restricted areas. The area was covered up with people and due to the harassment of the wildlife, all the anemones were closed and the other tide pool inhabitants were gone or fleeing.
I have heard many good reviews of this area, so I feel like we may have arrived at a bad time. This would be an excellent area to visit if it was less crowded and the individuals visiting were respectful of the wildlife.
I would definitely still recommend stopping, as this is a must-see Oregon landmark, but I would try hard to visit during a less crowded time.
Written July 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
RVtherenow
Lake Geneva, WI95 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
We came just to view this rock. We were pleasantly surprised to find special RV parking just a few blocks from the beach. We were worried because the electronic construction signs coming into town said expect crowds and no parking. I wish we brought our dogs with because everything is so dog friendly including the beach!
Written August 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
KC Rodriguez
6 contributions
Jun 2020 • Family
Really cool. Low tide showed very diverse marine life in the tide pools. Watching all the birds take off was really cool, especially the puffins. The guards of the rock were so nice and helpful when my kids asked questions about the animals.
Written June 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
NewRecipesForLife
406 contributions
Oct 2020
There is something magical about Haystack and surrounding jutting rocks that appear serene yet ominous along Cannon Beach.
I recommend all visitors to experience this natural splendor at any time of day. A walk at dawn or a splendid sunset bonfire will punctuate your experience.
I recommend all visitors to experience this natural splendor at any time of day. A walk at dawn or a splendid sunset bonfire will punctuate your experience.
Written October 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
LCO
Jacksonville, FL50 contributions
Oct 2021
We were so happy to have landed here on our Oregon Coast trip. Public parking is a few blocks away-wish we had had the time to stop by some of the restaurants and surf shops. Haystack Rock is such a stunning geologic feature and we and the kids had a great time looking at the tide pools and of course the ocean and the sunset. It was cold, so bring your coats and boots/hats.
Written October 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Mark A.
Lake Shore, MN1,248 contributions
Aug 2021
Friends took us to this beach. I was not expecting to see Haystack Rock. Serious cool factor. It looks bigger than it really is, but the rock is mesmerizing. Lots of people, with limited parking in the area. Busy during tourist season. Spent an hour walking the beach. Nice afternoon stop.
Written August 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Victoria B
Issaquah, WA6 contributions
Apr 2022
It was beautiful and sunny! Wear a warm coat during the spring time, the Ecological volunteers are out there every low tide. They can answer questions and point out finds in the tide pools. We saw a Golden Eagle, sea birds and creatures. If you can get out to the earlier low tide, there are fewer people. Beautiful views and sunsets. They also allow fires on the beach at night.
Written April 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Christen T
1 contribution
How long should I plan to spend at Haystack Rock?
BigMerk
Glasgow, UK1,832 contributions
That’s a difficult one. I can tell you that we parked in the well-signposted car park and walked to the beach. We spent about half an hour walking towards and near Haystack Rock then another half hour or so walking back. To be honest you could spend all day watching the waves and scenery - or just a few minutes depending on how you feel about that. They are actively discouraging visitors to climb the rock, but it looks pretty reachable if the tide were out.
j a
Grand Rapids, MI17 contributions
What is the area called 1 mile south of haystack with caves and waterfalls that is mentioned in a review? Is there a viewpoint or area to park instead of walking 1 mile down the beach?
M B
Philadelphia, PA237 contributions
Hug Point beach has a small parking lot. Go at low tide.
Can you park your car on this beach? Not overnight, just for a few hours during the day. We don’t want to drive around it. Just want somewhere warm to enjoy the view.
Fieldtravels
Irvine, CA306 contributions
If you park on the Main Street near Haystack Rock, it’s a really short walk down to the beach.
W1850MVmaryb
North Tonawanda3 contributions
What time is low tide at Haystack Rock?
David H
Wiesbaden, Germany64 contributions
Best to check the internet, as it varies day to day.. enjoy...!
MicheleSaranovich
Dallas, TX4 contributions
Hi, what is the Goonie's Rock? Is that from a movie?
Haystack Rock was featured in the film at the end on the beach. The cave however was a set. The cave at Haystack Rock is part of the Reserve and is off limits for entry. During super negative tides it is visible and can be viewed from the south side of the rock.
elizabethwhiltscher
3 contributions
How far is Haystack from The Waves Motel?
We are considering staying there and would llike to be able to walk to Haystack.
Rosterhold
Cannon Beach, OR37 contributions
Hello, Waves Motel is one mile from Haystack Rock. Pretty long walk. Enjoy Cannon Beach, it is a very nice place to visit and see.
mandm0708
Sandy, UT5 contributions
What is the parking situation at Haystack Rock in August? We will be traveling in a 28' RV from Astoria to Tillamook. We plan to stop and explore Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock for the day. Thanks
DewPortland
Portland421 contributions
On the south end of Cannon Beach is Tolovana State Park with a parking lot next to the beach.
It can handle your RV but the lot fills early .
There is also an RV parking area in downtown Cannon Beach behind the visitors information center.
BASHMAN
Claremont, CA103 contributions
We are a family of four with two teenage girls. Is it recommended to spend the night or nights in Cannon Beach or is it possible to just spend the day there then drive back to hotel in Portland. I understand its about a 90 minute drive each way.
Thank you
If you are looking to explore the tide pools the best practice is to check with the Haystack Rock Awareness Program for their beach schedule and tide tables and plan to come two hours in advance of low tide so you have sufficient time to explore before the tide comes back in. The group also accepts volunteers of all ages with no time commitments. Volunteering as a family is a great way to get to know the Rock and surrounding Marine Garden!
Shara M
Gray, ME51 contributions
Are you allowed to be on the beach at night near the rock or do they close it off? Thanks! :)
Gregg C
Beaverton, OR62 contributions
As most of the answers state, the beach is completely open at night. On decent evenings, there are a lot of bonfires; it's great to look up and down the beach and see all of the fires. The chamber of commerce states that it is illegal to camp on the beach. I've seen the police cars patrol the beach at night and stop and tell some tenters that they had to remove their tents and no camping. And the police are very, very strict about no fireworks.
There is no fence around Haystack, but it is very illegal to climb anywhere on Haystack Rock, day or night. The closest you can get to the Rock is the tidal pool at the foot of Haystack.
I'm a photographer, and nighttime photography near Haystack is a real treat, especially at New Moon time. And sunsets around Haystack are spectacular.
Frequently Asked Questions about Haystack Rock
- We recommend booking Haystack Rock tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 9 Haystack Rock tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Haystack Rock:
- Oregon Coast Day Trip: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock (From $130.00)
- Oregon Coast Tour from Portland (From $139.00)
- Oregon Coast Tour from Portland (From $128.21)
- Northern Oregon Coast Day Trip (From $130.00)
- Private - Northern Oregon Coast Tour from Portland (From $517.63)
- Hotels near Haystack Rock:
- (1.38 mi) The Waves
- (1.43 mi) Schooner's Cove Inn
- (0.99 mi) Ecola Creek Lodge
- (1.88 mi) Surfsand Resort
- (2.05 mi) Hallmark Resort & Spa Cannon Beach
- Restaurants near Haystack Rock:
- (1.16 mi) Castaways
- (1.38 mi) Insomnia Coffee Co.
- (1.35 mi) Crepe Neptune
- (1.43 mi) Lazy Susan Cafe
- (1.32 mi) Cannon Beach Bakery
- Attractions near Haystack Rock:
- (0.00 mi) Arch Cape Carronade Replica
- (0.00 mi) Hug Point State Park
- (0.00 mi) Ecola State Park
- (1.89 mi) Cannon Beach
- (1.84 mi) Icefire Glassworks