Beach Lovers’ Paradise of the Pacific Northwest, Cannon Beach, Oregon
Posted by Jody on March 19, 2012
Even if you’ve never been to Cannon Beach, Oregon, I’d be mighty surprised if you haven’t at least seen a picture or two of its celebrated landmark Haystack Rock. Haystack Rock, towering 235 feet above the beach, together with the Needles (two tall rocks jutting straight out of the surf nearby), form every beach photographer’s dream shot. This famous monolith and its rocky companions showcase the rugged beauty of northern Oregon’s Pacific coastline and add even more natural beauty to an already perfect strand.
Tidepoolers and birdwatchers are drawn to Cannon Beach for the amazing variety this seashore offers. According to the City of Cannon Beach, “The rocky reefs of Haystack Rock and the neighboring Needles have abundant and rich intertidal life. Tidepoolers are drawn to its wonders every day. As many as 200,000 people visit Haystack Rock every year, mostly during the summer months when the tidepools are teeming and the nesting seabirds, proudly showing off breeding plumage, are busy introducing little ones into the world.”
Even without Haystack Rock, the beach’s fine, golden sand would be enough of a draw for any beach lover. This is one beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline. Cannon Beach delights barefoot beachcombers, energetic dogs, and sand castle architects alike. In fact, Cannon Beach will host its 48th Annual Sand Castle Contest on June 9th, 2012!
A beachcomber’s playground, agates, seashells, and driftwood can all be found on Cannon Beach. The Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce poetically states: “Wave after wave, tide after tide, storm after storm, an oft playful but occasionally serious ocean continues its endlessly fascinating performance. Countless shells, semiprecious agates and twisted pieces of driftwood go through nature’s rock tumbling process in preparation for discovery.”
Tidepooling, beachcombing, birdwatching and castle building. Mist or shine, Cannon Beach is the beach lovers’ paradise of the Pacific Northwest.
* Remember: the Pacific Northwest Coast offers beautiful views but it can also surprise with dangerous conditions. You’ll want to check out Oregon’s Coastal Quirks for beach safety tips and information.
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Joseph Sobieski said
Was just there last summer; it was AWESOME!!!
Greg said
As you can see by the photos, it was a bit overcast when Jody and I were at Cannon Beach. Since then, Jody has been back with Kristie and the grandchildren. I’m looking forward to going this summer to hopefully catch the sun and brighter colors!
Monemvasia said
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Jody said
Thank you! We appreciate you stopping by!
Enno said
We LOVE Cannon Beach. When the tide is out there’s the array of marine life in the tidepools is excellent. My kids still sing the ditty my husband made up about checking out the “friends anemones” (say it) when we visited a few years ago.
Jody said
How clever! We’d love to hear that ditty! Thanks for stopping by, Jody
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