Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach with Kids: Your Easy, Family-Friendly Guide
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The Oregon Coast had been on my bucket list for years, and Haystack Rock was one of the main reasons why.
I’d seen countless photos of this massive sea stack rising from the Pacific, but standing there on the sand, hearing the waves, and seeing it with my own eyes? So incredible!
It’s even more stunning in person and was one of the biggest reasons we planned this trip.
Cannon Beach’s iconic Haystack Rock is a must-see with kids — and whether you only have time for a quick stop, a full day of exploring, or a few days to enjoy the beach and surrounding area, it’s completely doable and absolutely worth it.
From tide pools with sea stars to puffins nesting high on the rock, there’s so much for families to experience here.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know- from the best time to visit and where to park, to what to pack, nearby kid-friendly activities, and family-friendly places to stay.
Why Haystack Rock is Worth Visiting with Kids
Haystack Rock towers 235 feet above the shoreline and is one of the most famous sights on the Oregon Coast.
At low tide, you can walk right up to its base and explore tide pools filled with sea stars, anemones, crabs, and more — all in their natural habitat.
The kids were mesmerized by the colors and shapes, and I’ll admit, I was just as fascinated.
In spring and summer, Tufted Puffins nest here, and if you bring binoculars (or borrow some from local volunteers), you might spot them flying in and out of the rock’s crevices.
Between the tide pool creatures, puffins, and wide-open beach, there’s plenty to keep kids exploring and parents snapping photos.
Whether you’re here for just an hour or planning to spend a few days in Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock will impress you!
Getting to Cannon Beach & Where to Park
Cannon Beach is only about 15 minutes from Seaside, which made it a short and easy drive for us.
The closest parking for beach access is the public lot at 163 Gower Ave, which is free.
From there, it’s just a quick walk down Gower Street until Haystack Rock comes into view, and you’ll find easy, direct beach access at the end of the street.
If the Gower lot is full, try the public lot at 107 N Hemlock St about a mile north.
It’s still walkable, but it’s definitely further especially with kids.
Also, depending on where you enter the beach, it may require trudging through the soft sand for a bit.
Mom Tip: If you have young kids or plan to bring sand toys, bring a stroller or wagon — especially if you end up parking in the further lot.
Best Time to See the Tide Pools
The tide pools at Haystack Rock are only visible at low tide, when the water recedes to reveal colorful sea stars, anemones, crabs, and more.
- Check the tide chart — low tide changes daily and isn’t always in the morning.
- Look for minus tides — these extra-low tides uncover even more of the rocky base.
- Plan ahead — use NOAA Tide Predictions or a tide app to time your visit to Haystack Rock.
For tide pooling, aim for low tide no matter the hour. If you’re just here for the views, beach walks, or photos, mornings on weekdays are the least crowded.
Where to Stay Near Cannon Beach
If your trip is all about Haystack Rock and you want to see it multiple times—at sunrise, low tide, high tide, and sunset—stay right in Cannon Beach.
You’ll be able to walk straight to the sand, which makes it easy to pop down whenever the tide is right or the light is perfect for photos.
If you’d rather visit Haystack Rock once or twice but want a more kid-friendly base with plenty of walkable restaurants, arcades, and activities, Seaside is a great option.
It’s just 15 minutes away and has more of that “boardwalk fun” vibe my kids loved.
🌊 Our Seaside VRBO Stay
For our trip, we stayed in an oceanfront Seaside VRBO and loved it! The space was perfect for our family of six, right on the beach and Seaside Promenade, and only 15 minutes from Haystack Rock. We chose Seaside because it offered more dining options for kids, plus it has more family-friendly entertainment options.
Check AvailabilityFamily-Friendly Hotels in Cannon Beach
- Hallmark Resort & Spa – Just steps from Haystack Rock, this resort has oceanview rooms, an indoor pool, and easy beach access that makes it perfect for families
- Surfsand Resort – Known for its kid-friendly welcome gifts, s’mores kits, and prime location with Haystack Rock views. You can walk to shops and restaurants without moving your car.
Tip: If you’re visiting during peak summer, book as far ahead as possible—oceanfront rooms in Cannon Beach sell out quickly, especially the ones closest to Haystack Rock.
Cool Creatures You’ll Spot in Haystack Rock’s Tide Pools
At low tide, the base of Haystack Rock turns into an amazing spot for exploring tide pools — small, shallow pools of seawater that form between the rock.
These little pools are home to all kinds of sea life your kids will love spotting up close.
Look for:
- Sea stars in shades of orange and purple
- Anemones in soft greens and pinks, with tentacles that move in the water
- Small crabs scurrying quickly between rock crevices
- Snails with spiral shells and limpets with cone-shaped shells that cling tightly to the rocks
If you’re lucky enough to visit during a minus tide (extra-low tide, often in summer), you’ll see even more of the rocky areas uncovered.
This gives you a rare peek at marine life that’s usually hidden underwater.
From May through Labor Day, you might also meet volunteers from the Haystack Rock Awareness Program. They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and often have binoculars available so kids can try spotting Tufted Puffins nesting on the rock.
And while it’s not as common elk have been spotted in Cannon Beach, sometimes even near Haystack Rock early in the morning or around dusk — another fun surprise if you’re lucky!
If you want to capture the magic of Haystack Rock during your Cannon Beach visit, a few simple photo tips can help you freeze those “we were really here” moments—kids exploring, the waves rolling in, and that iconic rock in the background. Whether you’re snapping with your phone or a camera, these simple tricks make it easy to get shots you’ll love looking back on. 💛
Mom-to-Mom Photography Tips
- Golden hour = magic: go just after sunrise or before sunset for soft, dreamy light.
- Low-tide reflections: use mirror-like tide pools to make your shots pop—no fancy editing needed.
- Step back: move farther down the beach to fit Haystack Rock in the background (with fewer photo-bombers).
- Candid kid moments: capture them walking toward the rock, looking for shells, or playing in the sand—these natural moments tell the best story.
- Keep snapping: the more you shoot while traveling, the better your eye gets.
- Don’t overthink it: have fun, snap tons of photos, and capture the moments that make you smile.
What to Expect in Different Seasons
- Summer – Warm weather, calmer seas, and puffin season (April–July) make this the most popular time to visit. Mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded, which can be a big win with kids
- Fall – Cooler temps and stunning sunsets make fall a peaceful time for beach walks. Fewer crowds mean more space for sandcastle building or beach games. Pack light jackets for breezy evenings.
- Winter – Great for storm watching, with dramatic waves crashing against Haystack Rock. Bundle up and be ready for wind and rain. Between storms, kids will love splashing in shallow pools left behind by the tide.
- Spring – Puffins return, flowers bloom, and the beach is quieter. It’s a sweet spot for families who want mild weather without summer prices or crowds.
What to Pack for a Family Visit to Haystack Rock
- Binoculars for puffin spotting
- Water shoes or sandals for tidepooling
- Towels
- Layers (mornings and evenings can be chilly)
- A small bucket for shells or sand dollars
- Your phone/camera — you’ll want the photos!
Quick Tips for a Doable Visit with Kids
- Check the tide chart in advance for the best tide pool experience.
- If you’re not visiting for low tide, mornings on weekdays are less crowded.
- Wear shoes that can get wet and bring layers for changing weather.
- Bring a bucket if your kids love collecting treasures like shells or sand dollars.
- Even an hour here can be magical for kids (and grown-ups)- it’s SO worth the stop!
More Things to Do Near Haystack Rock & Cannon Beach
After exploring Haystack Rock, you can:
- Head to Ecola State Park for epic viewpoints and scenic hikes.
- Wander downtown Cannon Beach for coffee, ice cream, or a quick lunch.
- Visit Geppetto’s Toy Shop
Or, head to nearby Seaside for a totally different feel — arcades, rides, and a lively downtown with shops, restaurants, and plenty of spots to grab a sweet treat!
Haystack Rock is one of those rare places that’s both jaw-dropping and kid-friendly.
Whether you’re exploring tide pools, soaking in the views, or just enjoying time together, this is an Oregon Coast stop your family will never forget!
Looking for more family-friendly Oregon Coast ideas?
Read our full post: Oregon Coast Trip with Kids: Seaside, Cannon Beach & Astoria Highlights
Make Your Cannon Beach Days Count
From timing your visit to Haystack Rock for low tide to finding the best kid-friendly spots in town, a little planning goes a long way.
My Travel Itinerary Planner Bundle helps you organize your days so you’re not scrambling to figure out what’s next—and still leaves room for spontaneous ice cream runs or extra time at the tide pools.
Grab your Travel Itinerary Planner Bundle here and plan a trip that’s as doable as it is worth it.
May you LOVE your adventure! KW
