Don't Miss the Beautiful Hug Point Waterfall
Are you planning a visit to the northern Oregon Coast?
A stop at Hug Point State Recreation Site should be on your list of things to do.
Your visit can be a short trip as you wander around the scenic Hug Point Waterfall, caves, and tide pools, or make you visit a longer experience and plan to hike the beach from Hug Point to north Arch Cape. Or head to Oswald West State Park to the south.
Hug Point is a terrific spot to visitors, and very accessible to Oregon Coast Visitors. It's only a short 10 mile drive from our Manzanita rentals, or a quick 7 minute drive south of popular Cannon Beach. Even closer to neighboring Arch You'll find the access parking lot on the west side of Highway 101. From the parking lot, take the stairs down to the beach walk north around Adair Point to find the much photographed Hug Point Waterfall. The geography of this area is mainly sandstone, and waves have created several explorable caves.
Hug Point received its very practical name based on the old 19th century road against the headland that earlier coastal goers, dating back to the days of stagecoach transportation, traveled before the creation of Highway 101. At low tide, the old road and wheel tracks "hugging" the sandstone is exposed. Along with tide pools teaming with anemones, some starfish and muscles. And the occasional tiny crab.
More tide pools can be found south from the parking lot. Walk past Point Meriwether and cross the Oregon Coast Trail, which parallels the beach in this area. Towards the north tip of Arch Cape you'll find more tide pools with more beach treasure.
You'll want to note the following when visiting Hug Point
Hug Point is a popular state park, and can be busy during the high season. Earlier is better than later.
Check the tide tables before visiting. Low tide is the best time and safest time to see the attractions at Hug Point. It is possible to become stranded by the incoming tide when exploring the Point so know before you go!
When visiting this area you'll also want to
Check out this regularly updated event calendar of fun things to do in the area.
Be prepared for Oregon Coast weather.
Refer to this list for what to pack when visiting the Coast.
These Coast restaurants are not to be missed!
Insider Tips for Visiting Hug Point Oregon!
Getting To Hug Point Recreation Site - Just off Highway 101, five miles south of Cannon Beach and just north of Arch Cape, the Hug Point Recreation Site provides a small parking lot with easy access to the beach. While the parking lot can fill up quickly, arriving early can help.
Directions to Hug Point Beach - Head west from the parking lot where a short trail leads down to the beach.
The Stagecoach Road at Hug Point - North of the parking lot, during low tide, you may walk along the old Stagecoach Road, where you'll still see the wheel ruts carved into the rock.
Hug Point Waterfall - One of the highlights of visiting Hug Point is the waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach. The waterfall varies in intensity depending on the season. In winter and spring, it tends to be more powerful due to increased rainfall, while in summer it can slow to a trickle.
Hug Point Sea Caves and Tide Pools - Some caves are shallow while others extend deeper into the rock, creating mysterious, shadowy passageways. Tide pools emerge at low tide along the rocky area of the shoreline, revealing a diverse array of sealife. Colorful sea anemones, starfish, mussels, and small crabs can often be spotted in these pools. Keep an eye out around you - you may see a harbor seal lounging on nearby rocks.
Best Time to Visit - Spring and summer offer milder weather, more sunshine, and the best conditions for exploring the waterfall and tide pools. Fall and winter bring dramatic waves, fewer visitors, and a more rugged coastline experience.
Safety Tips - Check the tide schedule. Many of Hug Point's attractions, such as the stagecoach road and sea caves, are only accessible at low tide. Watch for sneaker waves. The Oregon Coast is known for it's unpredictable waves that can rush in suddenly. Stay alert! Respect wildlife and nature. Avoid disturbing the tide pools, stay on designated paths, and pack out any trash.
Enjoy your visit to Hug Point Recreational Area ~
Looking for a great place to stay while visiting the Oregon Coast? While Arch Cape Rentals may be close by, why not stay in Manzanita? We're only about nine miles south of Hug Point, surrounded by Oswald West State Park and Nehalem Bay State Park.
While Arch Cape is a residential neighborhood without businesses, and sits directly on Highway 101, Manzanita has many wonderful restaurants, shops, and grocery stores, yet remains a small Oregon Coast town. Take a look at our Oceanfront Manzanita rentals. Be sure to contact us for more information about vacationing on the beautiful northern Coast.
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