Haystack Rock is a 235-foot (72-meter) sea stack along Cannon Beach, Oregon. It is one of the largest “sea stacks” on America’s Pacific coast that attracts many wildlife and tourists from around the world. As a natural landscape, Haystack Rock is also home to many intertidal zone animals as well as the seabirds. If you are a fan of natural landscapes, this major sea stack is not to be missed during your trip to the west coast in the United States.
Rent a car and drive to Cannon Beach!
The most convenient mode of transportation is to rent a car. From Oregon, it takes about 1.5 hours to 2 hours to get to Cannon Beach. Along the way, some roads are curved but the speed limit of 45- 55 miles/hour allows all cars to drive at a safe speed. If you are worried about cars wanting to overtake you, there is an overtaking lane every few miles before the road converges into one. At Cannon beach, there is a public carpark where you can park for free. From the carpark, walk north towards the beach and you can easily spot the Haystack Rock on the west. You are encouraged to walk along the beach towards the rock to enjoy the breeze and views of the shimmering water under the sun.
Bring along a jacket to combat the chilly sea breeze
As the wind can get chilly, the best time to visit Cannon beach is usually in the summer. However, that is the busiest time of the year so the beach can be very crowded. Alternatively, autumn or spring are good periods to visit but do bring along a warm jacket, as the sea breeze can be very cold as you stroll along the coast. As you stroll, you will see many adorable sea birds as well.
Activities for everyone on the beach
On the beach, you can observe many locals strolling with their dogs who appear to love the sun and the sand. Most tourists will be occupied with snapping pictures of the beach and Haystack Rock so you can easily differentiate the tourists and the locals. The best pictures of the rock can be taken during the morning or late afternoon where the sun rays are softer and warmer. There is no drink or food stall along the beach so you should bring plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated under the sun.
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Chill out at the restaurant along the street
After visiting Cannon beach and Haystack Rock, you should proceed back to the little town where the public car park is located for food and drinks. You can find several restaurants near to the car park but if you venture further for less than 5 minutes, you can find more restaurants and small shops along the street. However, free parking lots are limited along those busy streets so you may wish to park at the public car park mentioned earlier and take a walk instead. That may save you more time compared to finding a lot. A warm cup of tea or coffee with some hot sandwiches would be desirable, especially during autumn or spring.
Enjoy a fresh & healthy meal at Cannon Beach Cafe
Most restaurants serve western food and one of the quieter and recommended would be the Cannon Beach Café. The small establishment is opposite the car park but away from the bustling street. It consists of guest accommodations as well as a restaurant at its ground level. Alfresco dining area is most popular for dining guest so you could enjoy the food and the walking crowd along the street.
Spent a night in the hotel with a view of the Haystock Rock (from USD 171)
If you would like to spend a night along the beach, there are some hotels available near the coast, which offers magnificent view of the Haystack Rock. However, room availability is limited and are often taken up quickly during summer and autumn period. To avoid disappointment, you are encouraged to book at least 2 months before the visiting date, especially for the popular accommodations near the coast.
Cannon Beach Hotel Collection
Address: 1116 South Hemlock Street
34.28 km (21.3 mi) from The Astoria Column
The great creation by Mother Nature
Cannon beach is a great chill out and relaxing place for everyone across all ages. It is a must for all nature-lovers to drool over the magnificent Haystock Rock created by Mother Nature.
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