Haystack Rock

Haystack Rock is a 235-foot towering sea stack that creates unforgettable family memories on Oregon's stunning coastline. At low tide, the area transforms into a natural aquarium where kids can discover colorful sea stars, hermit crabs, and anemones in the protected tide pools while volunteers from the Haystack Rock Awareness Program answer questions and share fascinating facts about marine life.

• ✓Discovering vibrant orange and purple sea stars clinging to rocks in tide pools
• ✓Spotting puffins nesting on the rock during summer months (April-August)
• ✓Learning from knowledgeable volunteers about marine conservation
• ✓Taking iconic family photos with the massive rock formation as backdrop
• ✓Finding hermit crabs, sea anemones, and small fish in protected pools

1. 1.Check tide charts before you go, visit 1-2 hours before low tide for the best tide pooling experience and allow time to explore before the tide returns
2. 2.Bring old sneakers or water shoes with good grip as the rocks can be slippery and sharp; avoid flip-flops
3. 3.Look for the free educational volunteers in green jackets who lead interpretive programs and can help kids spot hidden creatures
4. 4.Arrive early (before 10am) for easier parking and fewer crowds, especially on summer weekends
5. 5.Bring a bucket or clear container for temporary viewing of sea creatures, but always return them gently to their exact spot

Visit during spring through early fall for the warmest weather, and always plan around low tide (check NOAA tide charts). Weekday mornings offer smaller crowds, while summer evenings provide beautiful light for photos. Winter visits can be magical with storm watching, but tide pooling is limited.

Access is completely free with no admission fees. Parking fills quickly in summer, so arrive early or use the public lots in downtown Cannon Beach (2-3 blocks away). The beach is dog-friendly but dogs must stay away from tide pool areas to protect marine life.

Puffin viewing season runs April through August when tufted puffins nest on the rock. Winter months (November-February) offer dramatic storm watching but tide pooling is limited due to rough seas and higher tides. Summer (June-August) has the warmest weather but largest crowds.

The Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge offers kid-friendly beach views and casual dining just blocks away, while Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters has pastries and hot chocolate perfect for refueling after beach exploration.