A wide array of creatures call Cannon Beach’s rocky shoreline home. As the tide ebbs and flows, a vibrant and unique ecosystem is exposed in these coastal intertidal areas.
Cannon Beach is rich with tide pools, making it a popular destination for discovering and exploring the varied sea life that call these unique habitats home. Look closely and you will find anemones, colorful sea slugs, crabs, fish, snails, sponges, and sea stars. Tide pooling is a must for any Cannon Beach vacation getaway!
What is a Tidepool?
Tide pools are small pockets of water that form along the shorelines of rocky coastlines. As the tide ebbs, pools of varying size and depth are left behind. Some tidepools are only a few inches deep while others can be several feet deep.
During the day, the sun warms these tidepools and the water within them evaporates. This creates a unique environment for the creatures that live there as they must be able to withstand constant changes in temperature and salinity. At night, when the tide returns, these creatures are once again submerged in cold ocean water.
When Is the Best Time for Exploring?
The best time to explore tidepools is during a low tide, when the water recedes and exposes a larger area of rocks and pools. Check the tide chart before you go.
When exploring tidepools, be careful not to step on any of the creatures, or damage the plants, and remember to never remove anything from the tidepool as it could damage the delicate ecosystem. When looking for tidepools to explore, be cautious of your surroundings at all times, and never turn your back on the ocean.
Where Can I Find Tidepools Near Cannon Beach?
Near Haystack Rock
Haystack Rock is located just north of Cannon Beach and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The tidepools there are home to a wide variety of creatures, including anemones, crabs, sea stars, and urchins.
Ecola Point / Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park is another great spot for exploring tidepools. It’s not as popular as Haystack Rock, but it’s just as interesting. Located just north of Cannon Beach, this park features several trails with stunning views of the coastline. Expect to see a variety of creatures, including crabs, anemones, and urchins.
Indian Beach
From Ecola State Park, take a side road down to Indian Beach, and enjoy having the beach almost to yourself. Discover rarely visited tidepools at the southern end of this less-populated boulder-strewn shore.
Book Your Next Cannon Beach Getaway with Us!
Cannon Beach Vacation Rentals by Meredith Lodging offers a beautiful selection of vacation rentals from oceanfront and ocean view homes to condos and guest suites. Several of our rental homes are dog-friendly, too! Book online, or call us at (866) 436-0940. Your Oregon Coast adventure awaits!
