We walked to the rock from our hotel at sunset and low-tide and checked out the tide pools at the base of the rock. It was lovely because it was not crowded and very peaceful. It was definitely the highlight of our trip to Cannon Beach!

Go at low tide in the morning. Volunteers are there to educate you about the area. Loved seeing the beautiful tide pools. The starfish were beautiful.

City of Cannon Beach has exhibits and docents during low tide - wonderful learning opportunity. Haystack Rock is wonderful at any time.

The beach is just my idea of a walking beach. A good walk from one end to the other with Haystack rock in the middle. Only sorry not to spot any puffins on the rock.

There are number of locations around to see and photo the rock. One of the best views oddly enough is a highway scenic overlook just south of town on 101. I don't know that it is unwise enough to go out of your way to see but if you are taking a leisurely drive down the coast it is a... More

We were on a cruise that stopped in Astoria,OR. We decided to rent a car and drive the coast to Cannon Beach. It was so cool when we first pulled up.. The rock is just ginormous! It gets better as you get close and see all of the wildlife and the tide changing. I would definitely recommend this drive, cannon... More

So much to see on the rock - nesting birds like seagulls, muerres,puffins, cormorants. Great tide pools with lots of sea stars, barnacles, anemones. Wildlife guides are always around to show you everything for free.

Unfortunately we went to Cannon Beach on a rainy day in late May. It was cold and a little windy with a light rain so we weren't up for a walk on the beach which is, evidentially the best, if not only way to see Haystack Rock. Typical of beach communities, the town is very crowded and parking is severely... More

The tidal pools were truly amazing - do not visit Cannon Beach without going to Haystacks at low tide. You will not be disappointed.