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while we didn't have the best weather, the Designated & protected marine garden and wildlife refuge habitat , aka the haystack rock was a site to see. So many birds flying around and hanging out in thier natural element. definitely recommend checking it out if in the area!
% must go! The ability to walk out onto the to the ocean at least for half of the day is covered in water. I'd be able to see sea life crustaceans and get up close and personal with Haystack rock is something most people never experienced in a lifetime. If you're there, take the time wait for the tide get out in it!!!!
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.
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.
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!
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!
Iconic Oregon coast. Just go. Enjoy nature at its finest. You will get different views for different seasons and the tides.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
5 years ago
10 years ago
Yes, it's a gigantic rock in the middle of the ocean.well, I guess I shouldn't say the middle of the ocean since it's right off the coast, close enough to walk up to when the tide is out. It's simply beautiful, amazing, breath taking and magical. Haystack just has a presence about it. It doesn't matter if it's a hot 85 degrees, breezy 65 or frigid 50 at the beach. I absolutely love coming here and strolling along the beach looking at haystack. It's such a iconic part of Cannon beach. You can't come here and not take a photo near it. Makes for the best backdrop! I got engaged here so it will always hold a special place in my heart. You just can't deny the beauty that is Mother Nature! read more
7 years ago
This place is amazing & the rock is simply breath taking. Even on a day with a little rain and breeze, haystack didn't disappoint. Easy to find parking at the beach if in between the vacation homes. The water is cold but the sand is warm. The beach itself is huge! If you're around town even visiting Portland, I highly recommend making the 2 hour drive out here because yes it's that good! Glad I made it out here read more
11 years ago
It's a little bit of a walk from the public parking, but it's definitely worth it. Around the rock there are small tide pools with tons of living creatures. They have volunteers out there making sure they people don't interfere with the wildlife and they are also knowledgeable about the animals and the area. read more
10 years ago
This rock is the crown jewel of the Oregon Coast. I love the Oregon Coast, and find the scenic beauty of the huge rocks, cliffs, rocky shores, and and sandy beaches are all breathtaking! But the Cannon Beach area in general, and Haystack Rock in particular, are absolutely beautiful! read more
It is mentioned as the most beautifulest place in the northwest. Haystack rock have never disappoint me, I have been there sunny, rainy, or even snowy. You will never want to just browse at it and walk away. You probably want to stand next to it and glaze for a few seconds? minutes, or hours.. The Seaside Aquarium specialists are there during spring, summer morning while low tide to explain the GIANT STONE, and wild life. If you happen to visit Cannon Beach while it is sunny, you must visit during low tide (in the morning) as well as before sunset. It is not only the sunset amaze you, the long coast line, listen to the ocean sounds, and the bird will respond back. You will totally amaze how many birds are living on the rock, thousands of bird flying around the road and birdcall will annoy you to deaf. I am sure you will do a lot of stupid, handsome, beautiful, pretty, funny poses around the rock, even you walked 30 mins away from the rock on the beach, you will still see the rock, so you can imagine how Giant it is in front of you. read more
Beautiful beautiful place! I actually got engaged here (it also happens to be the first beach my fiancé and I visited together) so this rock will now forever have sentimental value for me! Out of all the beaches along the coast, Cannon Beach has got to be a favorite. And to be honest with you, it is mainly because of Haystack Rock. The sunset is beautiful here and at night, you can see dozens of beach goers building campfires. Great place for stargazing as well, as there is not a lot of light pollution! read more
This was my favorite vacation! I visited my best friend in Portland and we drove to this sleepy town for a day and it was super beautiful and peaceful !!! I've been a few times and a trip to Haystack Rock is a must ! The Pacific Northwest is amazing and it almost feels like I'm not in the US when I'm here! read more
5 years ago
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8 years ago
Obviously Haystack Rock ranks in at 5-Stars! Cannon Beach is our happy place and we happily drive 350 Miles each way to get there. CB has the most amazing beach where you can walk for hours. Haystack Rock is the primary attraction on the beach and is a bird sanctuary and an absolute marvel. A must see if you're anywhere near the area!! Ps you can have camp fires on the beach and the sun sets on the ocean. It's life changing. read more
8 years ago
Who knew a rock could be this mesmerizing? This place is worth checking out if you're in Oregon. It's about an hour and a half from Portland. It's really pretty when the sun is setting so I suggest going later during the day. If you get close to the water, you might be able to spot a few creatures...even starfish! We saw creatures such a mussels living on the rock. If you get lucky, you may even have a chance to spot cool birds! I would definitely come back here! read more
As a huge Goonies fan I had to make a pilgrimage to Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach. The beach town was quaint. Public parking was easy to find. The beach was picturesque with great views of Haystack Rock and the Oregon Coast. Lots of families were out and about flying kites or strolling along. If you're a Goonies fan you too should make the pilgrimage. Goonies never say die! read more
11 years ago
6 years ago
Easy to find--the rock is massive!! A large beach & the crowd wasn't too bad when we went. Depending on the tide, you can see a nice section of green rocks with plants & water-life. Beautiful, relaxing, & fun. Definitely worth the trip. read more
6 years ago
9 years ago
OMG I absolutely loved it here. We decided to come out here to escape the heat and what a beautiful day to do it!! We were able to find free parking next to these really cool coffee shops and brewery, which happened to be right by this huge beautiful rock! The beach was huge and the rock was so close I could just swim and touch it, but you can't LOL. Anyways, my son loved it, the scenery reminds me of back home in Monterey bay. Lots of kids and dogs running around and my son just had a blast. You have can bon fires there, there were free chairs available to anyone who needed them, as long as you brought them back and stacked them. There's a beach volleyball court too! We were able to find ourselves a nice little log to prop our things at while Our son ran around, and splashed in the water. What a beautiful sight!!! read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
10 years ago
9 years ago
Ahhh is everything in Oregon so far away from each other ?? 2 hour drive to see this beautiful beach but def worth it! After a long drive and the struggle to find parking we finally made it down to the rock. I probably spent a good hour just enjoying the views. I could of stood longer but it was freezing!! My fault for not bringing a sweater. Oregon has to be one of the most prettiest places I've visited. I cannot wait to come back and visit this beauty again! read more
10 years ago
You really haven't 'done' Oregon if you haven't been to haystack rock. This place is magical and scenic and an excellent place to to a photo shoot with you and your loved ones. Start a fire and sit on the beach and watch the sun go down and get your snaps in! Magical! read more
9 years ago
Get a view of Oregon's most famous monolith Haystack Rock and needles which are near. Parking can be a challenge but it's only a short walk to the beach to catch that amazing view come at low tide and get as close as you can read more
9 years ago
13 years ago
9 years ago
What a beautiful place. Yes it sometimes rains or is cloudy but just bring your raincoat and enjoy a nice walk on the beach. My new Fitbit was happy to pile up the 3000 steps for me. read more
12 years ago
Awesome! Incredible! Some of the most beautiful scenery, in my opinion, in the entire Pacific Northwest. When we visited the giant formation, tide was in....or is it out? I don't know, it ways confuses me but when the tide is like out there exposing some land in front of the rock. Anyways, the Aquarium people were giving cool demonstrations and facts. One I found really interesting was the fact that there was recently a bald eagle that move to this part of the Coast, and every time he lands on the rock all the seagulls don't dare step a foot on it. Interesting, huh? Lol, he most be like the most dominant species. In all seriousness though, it is breathtaking and blows the Washington State coastline out of the water! No pun intended... read more
9 years ago
A must see during your coastal adventure! It was a beautiful day to walk on the beach and see haystack rock. We were lucky to travel during off season and there weren't many people. Gorgeous view and even got to fly a kite!! So worth the stop. read more
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