Haystack Rock is spectacular and something you'd see on National Geographic. I couldn't believe how easily accessible it was from Canon Beach. There are tons of access points to the beach, but the easiest is to park in the parking lot and walk across the street, past the public bathrooms and homes, and you're immediately in front of Haystack Rock. The rock is impressive, jutting out of sea of crashing waves, dotted with greenery. The best part was watching all the pufffins flying round and round. At low tide, you can get pretty close up to bird watch or take photos. The puffins come to nest here in spring, and we saw a tons of them at the end of May. The history is just as interesting. The rock was created by ancient lava flow. People used to climb the rock back in the day and get stranded when high tide came in, requiring many rescues. To prevent this, they dynamited the bottom, creating the monolith shape we see today. The rock is now a protected marine garden and wildlife refuge. It was even featured in The Goonies movie. The beach stretches for miles, so you can also continue on for a nice walk. They were also dog friendly. We saw several remnants of fire pits, so guessing they are ok. read more

Neat! It's a big big rock in the water. The weather was gloomy when we went and the water was not safe to swim, but the rock was impressively large. In hindsight I wouldn't have driven out from Portland just to see this rock, but it is famous so I'm told. read more

The "Goonies Rock" is no where near Astoria like the movie makes it out to be. No matter what, it is absolutely worth the drive. Parking is non-existent because you have to walk down a pathway between two houses to get to there, I mean of course there are probably areas North or South of the actual rock but I am not aware of them myself. We were lucky and able to find a spot directly across the pathway that just happened to have someone pulling out. Walking down that pathway, I took a video and love how it shows the beauty of the area just opening up. It was more than I could have wished for after growing up loving the movie Goonies and was delighted that we got there when we did. Tide was out, so the dreamy tide pools that you see associated with the northwest coastlines were accessible and all the wonderful wildlife that live within them. Also, we were able to watch the sunset, which was cloud covered but who cares. While walking around, it first started with just rolling up my pants, so then having a misstep and one of my shoes getting soaked so then I was like, oh well, off with the shoes and walk around freely to be able to go rock to rock or wade around to get to the numerous tidepools. All worth the super cold feet later on in the car. There is just something about seeing everything in the wild vs in various zoos or aquariums. It was by far my favorite part of our trip to Portland and something I'd love to revisit again, regardless of the distance and drive back. read more

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Haystack Rock is one of those major landmarks of the Oregon Coast. The ancient monolith has been seen in films, media, etc. and is surrounded by a few smaller sea stacks nearby. Haystack itself is 235 feet tall and when the tide is low, you can walk out all the way to the rock. The reason you want to do that is because there are tide pools surrounding it where you'll see all kinds of sea life such as starfish, anemones, crabs, and more. It's also a popular spot for birding because of the varieties of birds who make a stop around here too. If you visit the tide pools, you MUST learn the etiquette of doing so to ensure that the delicate ecosystem is maintained. Check the tide charts to find when it'll be low and make for good viewing. There's an organization called the Haystack Rock Awareness Program that does events throughout the year, so check out what they're up to. There are parking lots around town but none right here (as there might be at other costal lookouts, like Devil's Churn or something). You might get lucky finding a spot on the street but there are residential streets around here so be cognizant of that, and respectful. read more

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Five fabulous stars for a fabulous place! As a tourist from California what struck me the most, apart from of course the immense Rock, was one morning at low low tide (I think -2ft on the tide chart) it felt like you could walk all the way around the rock, the beach was so level and smooth out into the ocean! Sunsets are marvelous, golden hour lights up the rock so beautifully. Maybe dock 1/3 star for how stinky it it up close tho, those beautiful birds do make a stinky mess! read more

Haystack Rock - Golden hour (a friend played with the photo settings to make the colors hyper saturated) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

No trip to Oregon is complete without seeing Haystack Rock. It's honestly breathtaking, having such a massive rock jutting out from an otherwise serene coastline. At low tide you can basically walk (wade?) right up to its base and have a look around tide pools nearby. Really cool and very photo friendly activity! read more

Haystack Rock - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

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Iconic Oregon coast. Just go. Enjoy nature at its finest. You will get different views for different seasons and the tides. read more

Haystack Rock - Haystack Rock in springtime - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

An iconic landmark on the Oregon coast. The beach is beautiful, large, and sandy - I am sure it is quite crowded in the summer, but I came in September and there was hardly anyone on the beach in the morning and evening. Parking was not an issue but I can imagine parking/traffic may be really terrible in the summer. Of course September is the off season and it was a little windy, but nothing that is unexpected from a Pacific Northwest beach. Some day I will come back in the summer, as I heard there are puffins there at that time! Loved that this beach was dog-friendly as my pup got to enjoy time in the sand and water. read more

Haystack Rock - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

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Goonies never die! Of course we had to make a stop here during our first trip to Oregon. My kids grew up exposed to all the 80's movies that remain nostalgic for me. Sad we didn't make it to Astoria but we had a long trek ahead of us. Sand was clean. Surprisingly not over crowded. Lots of beach houses over looking the ocean and the little town adjacent had so many shops, restaurants, etc to visit. You are allowed to park in the areas without no parking signs in the neighborhoods of the houses that overlooked the water. Which was nice. Just be aware of the signs and adhere to them. Rock is huge. Tide wasn't low enough to walk out to it but it's gigantic and looks oddly placed. Just a huge rock in the middle of the surf. I'd visit again. The drive along 101 is beautiful and should be done at least once in your lifetime. The views are breathtakingly spectacular! read more

Haystack Rock is one of the most recognizable landmarks along the Oregon Coast. It's located on Cannon Beach and it's free to visit. If you arrive early enough, there's parking available in Cannon Beach's charming town. By mid to late morning over summers, parking lots usually fill up and then you may have to pivot to find where to leave your car. Depending on where you enter Cannon Beach from, Haystack Rock will be visible from any distance. It's 235 feet tall and according to Wikipedia it's..."a monolithic rock that's accessible by foot during low tide" (mornings). I had to Google what monolithic meant, lol, and it's just a massive, single stone rock formation. That definitely epitomizes Haystack Rock. I visited on a quiet Saturday morning at the end of August and the beach wasn't crowded. It doesn't take long to experience what makes this rock such a fascinating attraction. You can get real close to it, practically within footsteps of looking straight up to its peak. Rules forbid you from climbing on it and it's roped off to protect seagulls, puffins and their nesting sites. Interestingly, the seagulls peck at the starfish who consume the mussels attached to the rock. Haystack Rock is a host for the circle of life between birds and fish. It's captivating just standing so close and watching nature and wildlife coexisting together. There were volunteer guides who hung out beside the rock and offered their expertise if you had questions. Around 9am they had introductions/demonstrations to learn what makes the beach shores here so unique. The Haystack Rock surroundings are also famous for being showcased in iconic 1980's movies...The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop. I could definitely envision One-Eyed Willie's pirate ship setting sail in the distance. Lastly, the town of Cannon Beach has authentic shops and stores to grab souvenirs and mementos. In the end, if you are driving the Oregon Coast, there are so many incredible natural wonders along the way to get yourself outdoors and start exploring. I believe Haystack Rock makes for a worthwhile stop that shouldn't be missed. read more

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This was a destination I had been looking forward to visiting for years after seeing pictures and hearing stories of other peoples' experiences at Cannon Beach ! First, the drive here along Route 26, from Portland, was just stunning as you drive through the forested areas. On this occasion a blanket of fog enveloped the valley and the pictures just don't do it justice as to how it looked in person. I went during the "off-season" right at the end of October and for me this was a great time to visit, as there were not too many people on the actual beach and it also made parking much easier. You can park in areas off the street, however, be careful as much of it you are not allowed to park on. If you park at "Haystack Rock" Public Parking it's just a short walk to the Cannon Beach Access. On this particular day a big storm was moving in and it really created a great atmosphere to photograph in with the moody skies and the ocean getting a bit more turbulent as the waves crashed into the seastacks. Would have loved to catch a sunset here, however, will have to do that on another visit and maybe a different time of the year to compare experiences. The trip didn't disappoint and highly recommend stopping here and exploring other parts of the Oregon Coast! read more

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Quite a sight to behold, and an incredible part of our planet to visit! It doesn't matter what season it is, it's beautiful and mesmerizing to see the changes in the sky and ocean at various times of year. It can get VERY windy here, so I recommend checking the wind speed as part of your pre-visit forecast check and plan accordingly. You also need to pay close attention to the changing tides so you don't get stranded out there when the tide comes in. read more

Haystack Rock is a stunning landmark on Cannon Beach. It's beautiful to walk along the shoreline and take in the view, especially with the waves crashing around it. A simple but unforgettable stop on the Oregon Coast. read more

Gorgeous tranquil area. Perfect for sitting around and people watching or listening to the waves. Dogs are off leash at this beach.

Haystack rock is something that the locals have been talking about since we first crossed into the Oregon border so of course we had to check it out. Cannon Beach, on a holiday weekend, in the middle of the afternoon was not wise, however. Packed with people and the way the streets are set up with not a lot of 4 way stops made it white knuckling to drive through the area. I am sure it would have been very cool on an off day. If you want just views of the rock without all the people, there are pull offs on the driveway just past Cannon Beach. read more

Haystack Rock - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

Haystack Rock was a recommended stop for us during our trip to Oregon and we decided since it was on the way we decided to stop off. Parking was relatively easy even though the tourist spot does have quite a few people. On the day that we visited it was kind of weird that we saw a lot of washed up jellyfish...my kids kept asking me what were those jelly like blobs all over the beach (definitely kind of gross haha). Once you walk across the beach to the actual Haystock Rock area it's absolutely stunning and on the day we went they had some volunteers that were showing/pointing out starfish and other wildlife in the area. I think it's great for families and kids just because it's like an outdoor zoo of sea life that you can look closely at. One last comment I would make is be prepared for sandflies...there was a crazy amount there when we were there...my kids were freaking out lol. Overall, recommend if you're traveling in the area to definitely visit! It's absolutely beautiful! read more

If you're a fan of the Goonies, you probably recognize Cannon Beach's Haystack Rock as the geographic feature the kids use to navigate their map. Haystack Rock and surrounding rocks have been in a ton of other films too, like 1941, Point Break, and Twilight. Obviously it's a very iconic piece of Oregon's coastline. You will definitely want to snap a few pics when you get there, because the water, the rock, and the beach are gorgeous. I do recommend getting there quite early though, if you want to get some serene photos, or if you're not a fan of crowds. It can get pretty intensely crowded around the rock in the later morning/afternoon. It's about an hour and a half drive from downtown Portland, so you can hit the road early, pack a lunch, and make a day of visiting Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach. You definitely will not regret it! read more

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Did a review for Cannon Beach but somehow forgot to review the main reason to make the pilgrimage to a beach in Northwest Oregon.... Haystack Rock! What an amazing, almost surreal thing to see.... Especially at sunset. The evening I went was almost perfect... except it was pretty cold for summer. As the sun went down, the tide was rolling in. Waves were crashing against Haystack and the formations around the main attraction. Each wave pushed us farther and farther from the rock, but still close enough for some great sunset pictures. After the sun went down the beach lit up with a number of small bonfires where people huddled around for warmth, enjoy the sunset and to listen to the sounds of the waves. Perfect! Bucket List.... Check! read more

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How can you leave a review on a rock? This blows my mind. Anyways it was fun, I saw birds and giant mussels. And families of starfish. I met a crab, and I cleaned up trash on the beach. How do people leave so much trash around? read more

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Home is where the heart is! Haystack Rock is an old friend, as a child I spent hours daily, studying the treasures it had to share. It has an important place in my heart. Rising 235 feet above the shoreline, Haystack Rock is an irregular basalt formation that was first created some 17 million years ago as lava flowed through the old Columbia River drainage system and intruded into soft marine sediments. Erosion and geologic uplift eventually revealed it and the many other large stone formations along the coast. I lived so close to the rock I could see it every waking hour it was my comfort when I lost my mom at 10. So I was a fixture on the intertidal zone and it taught me a lot. I lived in Cannon Beach for my entire childhood and teenage years. I forged food, razor clams, rock cod, dungeons crabs, octopus, sea urchins etc... I became so familiar with the entire coast line. I also rode out storms, a dune buggy to get glass floats, and other treasure that washed a shore and there was so much. read more

Haystack Rock - Cannon Beach in the foreground, my home town. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

Just wow!!! What an insanely gorgeous beach! We came to see this wonderful place while visiting my bestie in Portland. She had already been and I'd seen her pics but nothing does this place any justice quite like your own two eyes. It was a chilly rainy/snowy day but the weather cleared up just as we got to the area! We found parking easily and it wasn't a long walk to the beach at all. There weren't many people out either so that made for nice pics. This place was truly incredible!!! I really have no words, I'm so happy I got to see this!!! read more

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Visiting Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach was one of my all time favorite things to do when I lived in the PNW. There's really no bad time to visit, as it's still amazing on a cloudy day, but even more spectacular at sunset. It's sad that the number of starfish and sea anenomies have significantly reduced over the years, but if you're lucky enough to spot some at low tide, it's worth the trip. There is ample parking nearby, so it's easy to get to. It's definitely worth a visit when you're in Oregon. read more

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What hasn't been said about Haystack Rock? It's gorgeous- yes! Famous- yes! Our favorite beach- yes!!! Will it rain on you in the winter causing you to get wet and cold but cause endless memories while you drive to Mo's at nearby Tolovana State Beach for a clam chowder bowl with the family- absolutely!!! That's another review that's forthcoming. read more

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The Oregon Coast in part made famous by the emblematic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach. Unplug, release, exhale. Revive, restore, renew the spirit. Come to the beach to breathe. read more

Haystack Rock - Tide is out ;) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

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Another nice drive from Portland is to visit the coastline. Rising 235 feet above the shoreline, Haystack Rock is an irregular basalt formation that was first created some 17 million years ago as lava flowed through the old Columbia River drainage system and intruded into soft marine sediments. Erosion and geologic uplift eventually revealed it and the many other large stone formations along the coast. Today, Haystack Rock is protected as one of Oregon's seven Marine Gardens. It's a popular location for tidepooling and, at low tide, visitors can walk right up to the enormous rock. A wide variety of birds can also be seen year-round. Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, Orcas, and Sperm Whales are often spotted from December to March. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, spotting scopes, and cameras if they want to spot some of the giant creatures out in the water. Just walking along the beach and relaxing with the sound of waves it's a treasure...then you see this huge monolith on the horizon and it's almost like magic. Beautiful... read more

Haystack Rock - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

I've been coming here for eons. Love Cannon Beach especially during the dead of Winter. Used to be it was a ghost town this time of year and especially if it was stormy. Only the heartiest of visitors, usually retired, were seen in January. I always liked and appreciated that the shops stayed open year round. This is rare in towns like CB on the east coast. You can walk around but very few shops would be open for business. Of course the big draw is Haystack Rock which is sometimes confused with it's sister down at Cape Kiwanda. Used to be they were always rescuing some knucklehead who got themselves stranded on the rock when the tide came in... but now they will arrest you and fine you if you go rock climbing on it. There's a lot of creatures and life in the eddies and tidepools at the base of Haystack Rock and in the summer there are sometimes rangers or volunteers around to tell you all about it. It's one of the most photographed monoliths in the world and I have a gazillion pictures of it myself. Nice walk along the beach from CB center and then walking back on the sidewalk. read more

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I can't imagine how anybody could ever write a bad review about Haystack Rock. One of the most memorizing places in the US in our opinion. Finally after growing up watching the Goonies we finally got to see it and experience. This will be a place we will continue to come back for years to come. Cannon Beach and haystack rock literally speaks for itself. We can't recommend this place enough! read more

Haystack Rock - Cannon Beach! Keeping warm with Haystack Rock in the background! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

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"Willy M enjoys long walks on the beach"...... Yea totally....especially here! While visiting, I stayed right near it, went there early in the morning, went there during the afternoon and especially at sunset. Beautiful views and could just keep staring at it! Just come here and see it for yourself! It's pretty wonderful in my eyes! read more

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Beautiful sight to see...a must stop if in the area...water is cold but comfortable once acclimated! read more

Haystack Rock - Cannon Beach, OR - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

We went here early in the morning when there was plenty of parking, but the walk from the parking lot to Haystack Rock takes about 12-14 minutes, depending on your pace. There is parking closer to the rock, but it's in a residential area, so be mindful of that. Better to be safe than sorry. Other than that, the place was beautiful, not crowded in the morning, and had a nice breeze. read more

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Damn nature. It is not always as handicap accessible as we want. Could be a really cool spot. I wasn't able to get close enough because wheelchairs don't work on sand. Mind the sewage water lol. Best part was the goonies nostalgia. I'd recommend if it is on the way, but I wouldn't go out of my way to visit. read more

I have seen so many videos of this place and thought it was nice. But when we got there, it's a totally different experience. Photos don't do justice compared to being there in person. This spot is a definite place to check out for sure! It's free! Beautiful sunset! It's just an ultimate "aww" feeling. read more

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It's cool, but honestly I think it's a little over rated. The beaches and rock outcroppings in Southern Oregon were more impressive and not as crowded. They had large sections roped off to keep people off of it, which I completely understand, just sad that they have to do that because people won't respect things. I think if you are in the area, for sure go see it - it is beautiful - I just think that the southern coast is more amazing. Cannon Beach as a little town is adorable. read more

This is one of those spots where your heart rate quickly drops and you're reminded how small and insignificant you are in the grand scheme of things. I mean this in the best of ways. From the living breathing rock formations surrounding the Haystack Rock filled with anemone and barnacles to the beautiful sea mist and fog that constantly surrounds the rock, you can't help but feel at peace. I especially loved the sound of the sea gulls and watching the water crash upon the rocks. We visited the rock at three different times of day and felt so lucky to catch it during low tide when you can walk all the way to to it she'd see all of the formations that surround it. To visit the rock, you can park anywhere Cannon Beach parking is noted or at the Tolovana Park which is .8 miles from the rock itself but its beautiful walk so don't let that scare you off. It doesn't hurt that Cannon Beach is a very charming town filled with cafes and eateries to soak in while you're there. During COVID, this park is very easy to enjoy safely with an easy 60-80' between you and the next person at any given time. read more

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Majestic!! Something about the waves that is so soothing and so relaxing. The formation of the rocks especially the tallest one, is barely in the water. I hear the nice waves coming through the rocks that is quite nice to listen to. I'm sure I can walk to the rocks but there's a big sign that specifies "Danger"! The rocks do look slippery so, I won't even think about climbing. I can imagine people trying though. I just have a Look at it. It's meant to be looked at and admired. The sand is steady and dense to walk on which, felt good to my knees. Anyway, looking at it is calming and quite romantic. I'm sure whatever picture one take is instagram-able. It is absolutely stunning and memorable. May it be gloomy at times but catching a perfect time for the sun to set is magical and beautiful. I'm glad I got to see the famous "Haystack"! I highly recommend coming here and there are many places to stay in that are walking distance. Along the beach, there many bunnies lurking around and are fun to see. Very very nice read more

Haystack Rock - The sounds of the waves? Exhilarating! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

Located at the great Cannon Beach with a giant rock as the backdrop. If you're checking out the Oregon coast, then seeing Haystack Rock is quintessential on your trip. I hear there's a even community of intertidal animals at the rock that are brought in from the waves. Even on a foggy day, the rock is visible from all vantage points on the beach. Its looming features is a perfect picture opportunity for a tourist. I haven't seen Haystack Rock on a clear sky day, but the pictures I've seen look very appealing. Especially at the time of day when the rock is reflected off the clear ocean. While you're here, might as well bring your furry animal to play and run around the beach. They'll thank you for it. read more

Haystack Rock - Haystack Rock - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

Highlight of the Oregon coast line . Such a memorable silhouette. I will cherish the memories of our family picnic at the park after walking the shoreline. There was also a restaurant here and a lot of public parking available. read more

It's gorgeous, amazing and a fantastic beach. What else do you need to know. Have dinner at Wayfair (reservations) and take a. Quick stroll or sun tents and make a day of it. Unless you are allergic to sun or happiness this is a must stop. Only complaint- what are those annoying little flying bugs at dusk. Like a wannabe mosquito that hasn't really mastered how to fly. Otherwise no complaint read more

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This is the most interesting rock in Cannon Beach. I'm not sure how it could be "better". At low tides (twice a day) a truck drives on to the beach to deliver a bunch of volunteers whose job it is to tell you not to climb on the rocks. When we were there an eagle flew by and grabbed a bird off the Haystack. Circle of life! Just a really cool natural geological feature. read more

Haystack Rock - Rock with sun. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon

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Been coming to this beach for 40 years now and it's always a magical day. My favorite geocache is nearby and the tide pools are a adventure in themselves. Goonies are good enough for me :) ya ya ya ;) read more

Haystack Rock - Foggy Day on the coast - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cannon Beach, Oregon