Tag: Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach

Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach,OR

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Haystack Rock starfiish

Marine life from Haystack Rock

Travelers staying at Tolovana Inn are encouraged to discover new species at low tide during annual vacations to Cannon Beach Oregon through the act of tidepooling. Oregon has over 362 miles of coastline that are free for the public to explore, including Haystack Rock, a 235-foot rock formation that is home to a fascinating marine garden of sea creatures. Migratory shorebirds and magical marine life make this National Wildlife Refuge one of the top things to do in Cannon Beach as well as a local hot spot for tide pool viewing. Plan to avoid Haystack Rock parking clutter by arriving early to get a spot at one of the many public parking areas. 

What is Tidepooling?

Ocean-dwelling residents such as vibrant starfish, sea urchins, colorful anemone, scurrying crabs, and other aquatic life can be found in pooled waters left at Haystack Rock. Visitors can not only encounter unique critters in their natural habitat but also indulge in breathtaking views of the coastal shores. Outdoor enthusiasts may inspect the exposed sea life during low tide; however, it is not advised to touch or disturb the area since Haystack Rock is a protected landmark. It is prohibited to climb on the rocks as there are many living creatures such as mussels, barnacles, and sponges that make it hard to distinguish between rock and creature. The Haystack Rock Awareness Program provides safe, guided tours for excellent viewing opportunities.  

A Premier Cannon Beach Resort

Families from all over North America travel to Cannon Beach Oregon to explore the many nearby beaches, galleries, shops, and museums that surround Tolovana Inn. Our guests have the opportunity to enjoy an oceanfront stay with beautiful views of the shoreline from a private balcony. Ocean front suite at Tolovana InnSpace is vital when traveling with a group, so make sure to check out our large suites and rooms on the accommodations page before making a reservation. Please call 1-800-333-8890 to inquire about more information or to book your stay.

What’s your Cannon Beach summer tradition?

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Vacation isn’t complete without a recumbent bike ride only the beach.A tradition is based on passing on a custom from generation to generation.  And, many visitors to Cannon Beach have their traditions that make their every visit complete.

Regardless of all the fun and relaxation enjoyed at the beach, there are always one or two things you have to do to during your stay.

Maybe it’s looking for sand dollars in the morning tide and looking around the tidepools at Haystack Rock?    Perhaps a jog along the shoreline?  Or a  stop at Bruce’s Candy Kitchen for sea foam and saltwater taffy?  Maybe it’s shopping for beach souvenirs for your kids or new art for your home.  

Traditions are often based on fond memories of good times.

There are always plenty of things to enjoy when you stay at Tolovana Inn in Cannon Beach.

What’s your Cannon Beach tradition?

Cannon Beach first among “10 Beaches That Are Better in the Off Season”

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Accordinbeach fireg to a recent online article in The Huffington Post, Cannon Beach tops the list of the 10 Beaches That Are Better in the Off Season.    Key reasons cited are smaller crowds, empty swaths of sandy beaches and lower lodging rates in September and beyond.

Specifically, the article points out how Cannon Beach visitors can cozy up into the evening with a twilight bonfire and a fine bottle of wine to watch some of the year’s most incredible sunsets.    Unlike other beaches, there is no rule against alcohol on the Oregon coastline.

Exploring the tide pools at Haystack Rock was also highlighted.  And, it goes on to point out that the wildlife really comes out when the crowds disperse, with lots of bird watching along the shore and at neighboring Ecola State Park where visitors can watch for elk and migrating grey whales offshore.

Storm chasers are advised that that fall and winter’s unpredictable weather that can bring crashing waves, best enjoyed from an oceanfront hotel.   Fortunately, Tolovana Inn’s ocean front rooms and suites are perfect for that.

Other notable beaches highlighted in the article include  Moshup Beach,  Massachusetts, near Martha’s Vineyard, Kennebunk Beach, in Maine,  Sunset Beach, North Carolina and  Pfeiffer Beach, California’s Highway 1, near Big Sur.  Rounding out the list are Shi Shi Beach, in the Olympic National Park, WA; Mackinac Island, Michigan; Cove Beach, New Jersey and Malaquite Beach, Texas on the Gulf of Mexico.

 

Haystack Rock Tidepools part of National Wildlife Refuge

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Exploring the tide pools around nearby Haystack Rock is an inviting summer activity for guests of Tolovana Inn at Cannon Beach.

 An iconic natural landmark, Haystack Rock is actually designated a protected Marine Gardesb10068250tt-001n and National Wildlife Refuge.  And, the Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) provides both staff and volunteers daily throughout the summer to guide beachcombers and answer questions about the natural world.

HRPA is actually a stewardship and environmental education program whose mission is to protect Haystack Rock, and the intertidal and bird ecology surround it.   Each day, members set up an extensive interpretive program including signs and educational brochures, bird stations with spotting scopes and often times, microscopes too.

To be a good s6889142046_alternateteward, visitors are reminded that the intertidal areas around Haystack Rock are fragile ecosystems.  Guests are encouraged to tread lightly around the tide pools and stay on sand or small bare rock to avoid stepping on vulnerable animals like anemones and barnacles.    Be gentle as you observe wildlife in its natural state, being sure to leave the natural environment undisturbed.

Since its inception im1985, the HRPA has educated hundreds of thousand adults and children about this amazing island and the marine-related life around it, protecting it each day, and for generations to come.

Haystack Rock

Perfect place for exploring tidepools