Beaches & Parks of Cannon Beach

The Beach & Haystack Rock

Nearly four miles of beach stretch out from downtown Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock rising 235 feet at the edge of the shoreline. The iconic rock is a National Wildlife Refuge, where you can observe tidepools teeming with sea life. It's also an active seabird nesting spot, famous for its easily observable colony of Tufted Puffins from spring through summer.

Ecola State Park

Just a winding drive through the moss-covered rainforest at the north end of Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park is a not-to-be-missed gem. The drive emerges at one of the Oregon Coast’s most famous views overlooking nearby rock formations, including Haystack Rock, as well as capes and headlands miles to the south. The park offers easy walking paths, several miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, access to Indian Beach and Crescent Beach, views of the historic Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, and vantage points for birdwatching and whale watching.

Arcadia Beach

A two-minute drive south of Cannon Beach leads to Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site. The area features beach access at Lion Rock and offers extensive beach walks south to Hug Point and north to Silver Point.

Hug Point

Three miles south of Cannon Beach, Hug Point State Recreation Site offers beach access and a peek at local history. At lower tides, you can walk north and find sea caves, a small waterfall, and remnants of the old cliff-side roadway.

Oswald West State Park

About 10 minutes south of Cannon Beach, Oswald West State Park offers many miles of hiking trails, stunning viewpoints, and an easy walk to lovely Short Sand Beach, famous for surfing.