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Hug Point State Park is a small one as far as state recreation sites go, but boy is it worth the trip! This hidden gem along the Northern Oregon Coast is a serene destination that deserves a visit. Just a short walk from the parking area will take you to see a beautiful waterfall right on the beach!
The small size of the park along with the fact that the beach is flat and easily walkable makes it a perfect destination for visitors of all ages. You can easily make your way to see the seasonal waterfall or the neat sandstone caves. Hug Point is a great place to visit with the family, even family members that don’t enjoy hiking. There is no difficult hike here!
Hug Point: Don’t Miss This Waterfall on the Beach!
Do you have a list of things that you want to see in Oregon? A Pacific Northwest or Oregon Bucket list if you will? This unique destination on the Oregon coast needs to make it onto this list!
Hug Point State Recreation Site
Hug Point State Recreation Site is actually the former site of the original stagecoach road. Stagecoach Road was a road that was initially built to “hug” the coastline (hence where it got the name hug point) so as to avoid any damage by the tide. It was used by early settlers and must have been a terrifying ride on that old road!
It’s a fascinating stretch of the coast that offers a lot of history!
What Will You See at Hug Point Beach?
In addition to the lovely seasonal Hug Point Falls and the numerous caves at Hug Point, you will also be able walk the sandy beach, view the beautiful sandstone cliffs, and the glorious trees surrounding the site. Don’t forget to notice the beauty of the shoreline, nearby rocky shores, sea caves and awesome tide pools filled with awesome sea life.
Oh, and did I mention that you can even spot the famous Haystack Rock from this stretch of coast?
When is The Best time to Visit This Waterfall on the Beach?
The best time to visit Hug Point is certainly during the wetter seasons. We have visited during the summer, spring and fall and we definitely found more success seeing the waterfall during the spring and late fall. By the middle or end of summer, water conditions have dried up enough that the waterfall is often a mere trickle.
Additionally, you should always visit Hug Point during low tide. This is for severals, both for safety and for your enjoyment. During high tide, the incoming tide can lock you into certain areas of the beach and trust me when I say that those caves can be dangerous! Be sure to read and obey all posted signs. You do not want to find yourself in or around the explorable caves during high tide.
If you are into seeing marine life, low tide is also the only time to see the tide pools.
Check the tide table for the area before planning your trip.
How to Get to Hug Point
Hug Point is fairly easy to find. Head south on Highway 101 from Cannon Beach, drive roughly 4.5 miles, and keep an eye out for the Hug Point State Recreation Area signs along the highway.
If you are coming from the south on Highway 101, just be sure to watch out for the signs and know that if you have reached Canon Beach, you’ve gone too far.
Is There a Picnic Area Available?
Yes! Hug Point Recreation Area has picnic tables, restrooms and a great park like setting. This makes it perfect for a day trip to the site. You can pack a lunch and enjoy your day at the Oregon Coast.
Other Things To See Near The Scenic Hug Point Waterfall
Attractions Near Hug Point
Hug Point is amazing and well worth the visit, but in reality, won’t take all day to visit. If you want to strech out this short trip into a longer experience, check out some of the other awesome attractions near Hug Point:
- Haystack Rock
- Cape Falcon
- North Arch Cape
- Cannon Beach
- Camp 18
- Tillamook Cheese Factory
- Elk Flats
- Oswald West State Park
- Ecola State Park
Like any other trip to the Oregon coast, visiting the waterfall and the caves are all things that you are doing at your own risk. Make sure to stay as safe as possible. Never turn your back on the tide, watch for sneaker waves and logs in the water.
