Oregon Coast Day Trip: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

Explore Oregon’s Northern Coast with a Full-Day Trip from Portland

This Oregon Coast Day Trip offers a comprehensive look at the stunning beaches, charming towns, and dramatic landscapes along Oregon’s northern shoreline. Priced at $140 per person, the tour lasts around 8 hours and features hotel pickup and drop-off from downtown Portland, making it a convenient way to experience this scenic region. The trip has earned a 4.5-star rating from 429 reviews, with 90% of participants recommending it, highlighting its popularity and consistent quality.

The tour is ideal for visitors who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning. It includes visits to iconic spots like Haystack Rock, Neahkahnie Point, and Short Sand Beach, along with ample free time for exploring local shops and galleries. While the tour operates in rain, it still offers spectacular views and memorable experiences, thanks to knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops.

Key Points

• Full-day exploration covering Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock, and coastal viewpoints
• Includes hotel pickup and van transport suitable for small groups (up to 13)
• Visit multiple scenic spots such as Neahkahnie Point, Short Sand Beach, and Camp 18 Logging Museum
• Free time in Cannon Beach and Manzanita for shopping, dining, and sightseeing
• Walking stops at tide pools and beaches, with some locations requiring moderate physical activity
• Guides share interesting facts and local stories, enhancing the experience

Scenic Drive Along Oregon’s Coast with Iconic Views

The tour kicks off with a morning pickup from downtown Portland, where the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van whisks travelers along the coast. The scenic drive offers panoramic views of cliffs, beaches, lighthouses, and forests. One of the first stops is Neahkahnie Point, a perfect spot for whale watching and coastline photography. From here, the tour captures the vastness of Oregon’s shoreline, with clear views stretching for miles.

The route follows the rugged coastline, providing a gentle, relaxing journey. The guides are adept at pointing out landmarks like Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, perched atop a basalt sea stack known as Terrible Tilly. The entire drive emphasizes Oregon’s natural beauty, making it a peaceful, picture-perfect beginning to the day.

Visiting Oswald West State Park’s Short Sands Beach

One of the first stops is Short Sands Beach in Oswald West State Park. This four-mile stretch of secluded sand, set within lush, temperate rainforest, offers a striking contrast to the open coast. The park features trails leading to sweeping ocean views, appealing to those who enjoy moderate walking and nature.

This stop is an excellent introduction to Oregon’s diverse landscapes. Visitors can walk along the beach, explore the forest trails, or simply relax with the sounds of the waves. The park’s free access makes it a standout feature of the tour, showcasing both wilderness and tranquility.

Ecola State Park’s Dramatic Coastal Outlooks

Next, the tour visits Ecola State Park, perched dramatically on Tillamook Head. This location is a highlight for its spectacular vistas of rock formations, capes, and headlands. The park’s road winds through old-growth rainforest before opening to panoramic views of the coast.

Ecola State Park is perfect for photos and learning about the landscape. While here, visitors can observe Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, visible from afar, and enjoy the fresh ocean air. The park’s 25-minute stop allows ample opportunity to appreciate the sweeping scenery and take memorable photos.

Cannon Beach’s Art, Shops, and Iconic Beaches

The town of Cannon Beach is a must-visit for its charming streets, vibrant art galleries, and stunning beaches. The tour allocates about one hour for exploring the walkable village, with pathways lined with public art, flower displays, and boutique shops.

During this time, visitors can enjoy a lunch break at local restaurants (own expense) and browse galleries showcasing Northwest artists. Cannon Beach is famous for its expansive sandy beaches, where the famous Haystack Rock awaits. The town’s relaxed yet lively atmosphere makes it a favorite stop for many.

Up Close with Haystack Rock at Low Tide

Haystack Rock is the tour’s star feature, rising 235 feet from the shoreline. At low tide, visitors can walk directly to the rock’s base, where colorful tide pools teem with sea stars, anemones, and other intertidal creatures. This is a prime location for tidepool exploration and birdwatching, especially during spring and summer when Tufted Puffins can often be observed.

The stop here lasts about 20 minutes, giving enough time to explore the intertidal zone and appreciate the rock’s grandeur. It’s a perfect chance to get intimate with Oregon’s marine life amid breathtaking scenery.

Manzanita’s Sandy Beaches and Quaint Downtown

After exploring Cannon Beach, the tour heads south to Manzanita, a picturesque oceanside town with seven miles of sandy beach. Visitors have about 25 minutes to walk along the shoreline or explore the small downtown area, filled with shops, cafes, and galleries.

Manzanita’s scenery ranks as the third most photographed in Oregon, making it a favorite for photography and leisurely strolls. This stop offers a peaceful break and a chance to experience a quieter coastside town away from the busier tourist spots.

Visiting the Camp 18 Logging Museum

On the return journey, the tour makes a 15-minute visit to Camp 18 Logging Museum, which provides insights into Oregon’s timber industry. The outdoor displays include vintage logging machinery such as steam donkeys, sawmills, and heavy equipment, giving a tangible sense of the logging history.

This museum offers an interesting look into Oregon’s industrial past and is a practical stop for those curious about regional industry. It also provides facilities for restroom breaks and coffee before concluding the day.

The Route Includes Hug Point and Other Hidden Gems

Along the drive, the tour passes Hug Point, a historic site where the original stagecoach road traveled along the shoreline. Visitors can see wheel ruts etched into the rock, and learn about the early pioneers navigating this rugged coast.

This stop adds a layer of history and fun exploration, especially for those interested in Oregon’s early transportation routes. The scenic drive through rainforest and along rocky headlands continues to reveal Oregon’s natural and cultural heritage.

Small Group Experience and Expert Guides

The tour operates with a maximum of 13 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. Guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories and insights about each location. Many reviews highlight guide Phoebe and Phil’s ability to enhance the trip with engaging commentary.

The tour includes bottled water and transportation in a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van, making it both comfortable and convenient. The moderate physical activity required involves walking on beaches and some trails, so it suits those with average fitness levels.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The trip departs daily at 9:00 am from downtown Portland. You need to book about 37 days in advance on average, indicating strong demand. Cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance, but late cancellations or changes are not eligible for refunds.

Participants are advised to bring a car seat for children aged 3-6, as this is not provided by the operator. The tour operates rain or shine, making it suitable for most weather conditions, though cold and rainy days do require appropriate gear.

Final Thoughts on the Oregon Coast Day Trip

This full-day tour from Portland offers a well-rounded experience of Oregon’s scenic northern coast. The combination of breathtaking views, charming towns, and engaging stops makes it suitable for those who enjoy nature, art, and coastal landscapes. The inclusion of professional guides and small group sizes ensure a comfortable, informative journey.

While the itinerary involves walking and some moderate activity, the overall pace is relaxed, allowing ample time to enjoy each location. The price of $140 provides access to several iconic sites, plus transportation and water, with lunch needing to be purchased separately in Cannon Beach. This tour is a reliable choice for anyone looking to explore Oregon’s coast without the hassle of self-driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from downtown Portland hotels.

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts approximately 8 hours, from pickup to return.

What stops are included?
Stops include Short Sands Beach, Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock, Manzanita Beach, and Camp 18 Logging Museum.

Can I visit Haystack Rock at low tide?
Yes, when the tide is out, you can walk to Haystack Rock’s base and explore tide pools.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, the itinerary includes free time for exploring shops, galleries, beaches, and tide pools.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 13 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable in rainy weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, though proper rain gear is recommended.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included; you’ll have about an hour in Cannon Beach for lunch at your own expense.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge if done more than 24 hours in advance; late cancellations are non-refundable.