Oregon
Where Haystack Rock Meets the Mist
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Cannon Beach is defined by Haystack Rock, the 235-foot sea stack that rises from the sand like a cathedral from another age. This iconic landmark anchors one of Oregon's most beautiful beaches, where tidepools teem with life and the Pacific mist creates an atmosphere both mysterious and romantic.
The town itself matches the setting—cedar-shingled buildings house galleries showcasing Pacific Northwest art, from bronze sculptures to plein air paintings of the dramatic coastline. There are no neon signs, no fast food chains, and no traffic lights. Instead, you'll find bookshops, wine bars, and restaurants emphasizing local seafood and ingredients.
Ecola State Park lies just north, offering trails through old-growth Sitka spruce with viewpoints featured in films from "The Goonies" to "Point Break." To the south, Tolovana Beach provides quieter stretches of sand with tide pools and abundant wildlife.
Iconic 235-foot sea stack, one of the most photographed sites in Oregon
Old-growth forests meeting dramatic coastline, featured in numerous films
Over 30 galleries showcasing Pacific Northwest artists
Rich marine life in pools around Haystack Rock during low tide
Cannon Beach is located on the Oregon Coast, about 80 miles west of Portland. Summer brings the driest weather, but spring and fall offer dramatic storms and fewer crowds. Low tide is best for tide pool exploration.