Haystack Rock

Haystack Rock is the iconic 235-foot sea stack that rises just offshore at Cannon Beach, making it one of the most recognizable sights on the Oregon coast. At low tide, the surrounding beach reveals tide pools with marine life, and the area is especially popular for photography, birdwatching, and simply taking in the dramatic coastal scenery. It’s a place that feels both easy to visit and genuinely memorable, especially when the rock is framed by surf, mist, or sunset light.

History

Haystack Rock is a basalt sea stack formed by ancient volcanic activity and later shaped by erosion, leaving it standing apart from the shoreline. It has long been a defining natural landmark of Cannon Beach and is protected as part of a marine garden and bird habitat, which helps preserve the tide pools and nesting seabirds that draw so many visitors.

Expert notes

• Wear sturdy shoes with good traction; wet sand and rocks can be slippery.
• Keep a respectful distance from nesting birds and avoid disturbing tide pools.
• Plan for wind and changing coastal weather even on sunny days.
• Parking and beach access can be busy in peak season, so arrive early if possible.