Just ten minutes south of the iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach is a hidden gem that rivals One-Eyed Willie’s treasure in The Goonies. Hug Point is an Oregon State Recreation site that has to be timed perfectly to visit because the seaside seasonal waterfall can only be reached during a low tide during the rainy season. The waterfall is backed by lush green vegetation like ferns and Sitka spruces creating the perfect mixture of land and sea. Hug Point waterfall is where we see the magic of freshwater rapids created by the Northwest rains clash with Pacific waves. It’s a symphony for all of the senses from the smell of the saltwater and vegetation to the sounds of the waves and water falling. It’s a site to behold.
When I am road-tripping on Highway 101 I like to stay overnight at Cannon Beach to better my chances of seeing puffins on Haystack Rock, or Roosevelt Elk on the beach/streets/everywhere. This also gives me a better chance to time the tides correctly to get up close and personal with Hug Point waterfall. If you’re driving along Highway 101 and you come to Hug Point during a high tide, do not be discouraged. You can still walk along the shoreline, hike to the waterfall overlook, and bask in all the Pacific Northwest beaches usually have to offer. As you can see in the picture on the left the first time I visited I arrived during high tide and was unable to get down to the waterfall. But, I made checked the tide schedule and made a plan to visit the next day!
Hug Point is a seasonal waterfall so during the dryer months you may not be able to see it. My absolute favorite time to do a road trip along Highway 101 is early April. I am a sucker for a rainy morning and sunny afternoons and I find that the Pacific Northwest beaches are made for those April showers. Everything is extra lush and green and the waterfalls and rivers are flowing like mad. I think many people are deterred from visiting during the early spring because it can get quite cold in the mornings and evenings but to me, that just adds to the coziness and adventure. I love watching the marine layer burn off and shedding layers as I explore the coast throughout the day.
I cannot emphasize enough that you have to time Hug Point perfectly because it is possible to get stranded on the waterfall side if the high tide comes in when you are visiting. When in doubt, do not go out. Even though it might be chilly I do recommend wearing shoes you don’t mind getting wet because you can climb up the waterfall. It’s a waterfall so parts can be very slippery but step with caution and don’t go beyond your comfort level. The water falling looks stronger than it is from the sand, but once you are on top you realize just how easy it is to walk around and how cool the view is to be standing and watching the two water sources join. If you’re going to be in the Cannon Beach area then you have to add Hug Point to your itinerary, just remember, patience is a virtue, and Hug Point is worth the wait.
