Haystack Rock, Basalt sea stack in Cannon Beach, Oregon.
Haystack Rock is a basalt sea stack rising about 72 meters (235 feet) above the water off the shore of Cannon Beach in Oregon. At low tide, shallow pools appear between the rocks where crabs, starfish, and other marine residents live among barnacles and seaweed.
The formation originated from lava eruptions 15 to 16 million years ago and was later separated from the coastline by erosion. The military used the rock for target practice during the 19th century before it received protection as a nature reserve.
The formation draws birdwatchers and naturalists who wade through tide pools at low tide to observe starfish and anemones up close. Rangers and volunteers often stand on the beach to answer questions and explain marine creatures and protected nesting zones to visitors.
Low tide is the best time to visit because you can walk closer to the formation and see the creatures in the pools. Waterproof shoes help when walking over slippery rocks, and visitors should watch for the returning tide to avoid being cut off.
A smaller needle-shaped rock stands right next to the main formation and visitors sometimes confuse the two. During very low tides, a narrow sand bridge forms between them that walkers occasionally cross.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
