Explore nature at Haystack Rock: Oregon’s most famous sea stack

Standing over 200 feet tall, Haystack Rock is more than just one of Oregon’s most famous landmarks — it’s the heart of a thriving intertidal ecosystem. Located in Cannon Beach on Oregon’s north coast, Haystack Rock is an extraordinary place where land meets sea and where visitors can explore accessible tidepools, take in stunning views of nesting seabirds and enjoy the coastal air.

Vibrant tidepools

At low tide, a colorful world teeming with life reveals itself. The tidepools at Haystack Rock provide some of the best tidepooling opportunities along Oregon’s north coast. There’s all sorts of wildlife within the tidepools but visitors will most likely see some of the following critters:

• Sea stars: Bright purple and orange sea stars cling to rocks, slowly moving across the surface in search of food.
• Anemones: Soft, green sea anemones fill the pools, often camouflaged by bits of seaweed and sand.
• Mussels and barnacles: These hardy creatures form dense clusters along the rocks, braving waves and wind.
• Crabs and snails: Often found seeking shelter behind or under rocks. 

Aside from tidepools, just overhead are spectacular sights of a variety of soaring seabirds.

The birds of Haystack Rock

Haystack Rock is a globally recognized seabird nesting site, a Oregon Marine Garden and a part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge — established in 1935 to foster healthy seabird populations across the region. In the spring and summer months onlookers might be greeted by some of the following birds:

• Tufted puffins: Haystack Rock boasts the second largest tufted puffins nesting site in Oregon. They usually make their nests on the north side of the island.
• Black oystercatchers: Often make their nests along the shore and can be identified by their dark color and bright bill.
• Common murres: Can be seen in colonies on top of Haystack Rock and the surrounding sea stacks.
• Bald eagles: Occasionally spotted preying on other birds in the area. 

Haystack Rock is an incredible ecosystem full of tidepools, seabirds and other wildlife. As visitors, it’s important to minimize the impact we have on the environment and fortunately Haystack Rock Awareness Program volunteers are there to help. 

Haystack Rock Awareness Program

Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) is a local education and stewardship initiative founded to help visitors safely and responsibly explore the area. 

During the summer, trained volunteers — identifiable by their bright red clothing — are on the beach to answer questions, help visitors identify wildlife, and educate people about the importance of protecting this fragile environment. The program also works to minimize human impact by discouraging harmful behaviors like stepping on sea life or removing animals from their habitats.

Humans can easily damage tidepool ecosystems, but through education and careful exploration, we can all play a role in educating ourselves while also protecting these incredible places for future generations of people and wildlife. 

Best tips for visiting Haystack Rock

• Check the tides: Plan your visit around the lowest tide for the best tidepool access.
• Look, don’t touch: Tidepool creatures are delicate. Gently observe but avoid handling animals.
• Watch the ocean: Never turn your back on the waves—sneaker waves can appear suddenly.
• Respect nature: Haystack Rock is a designated Marine Garden and a protected area. Collection of marine life, shells, or rocks is prohibited.

Visiting Haystack Rock is not just about seeing sea stars or watching puffins — it’s about forming a connection with Oregon’s coast. The ecosystem is alive and every wave, rock and tidepool tells a story and we must do all we can to make sure that it continues to thrive.