Cannon Beach, OR

July 1 - 4, 2025

Hosted Wildlife Viewing from 8:00am - 12:00pm Each Day

free event with no registration needed!

donations gladly accepted

A tufted puffin flying over Cannon Beach during The Great Puffin Watch. Photo by Ram Papish
Photo by Ram Papish

During this exciting four-day celebration, dedicated volunteers are on Cannon Beach, ready to answer questions and help you spot the incredible birds that nest on Haystack Rock.

We provide scopes and binoculars to enhance your experience, ensuring you don't miss a moment.

While our primary focus is the charming tufted puffin, we are equally thrilled to observe the variety of other birds at the Rock. Our passionate team is committed to making your birdwatching experience unforgettable.

This premier birding event attracts enthusiasts from around the globe, all eager to see the diverse shorebirds and the majestic tufted puffin.

Directions

Make your way to Haystack Rock!

To access the event, follow Gower Avenue from the intersection with Hemlock Street to the midtown beach access.  

It is about a half mile walk on the beach to Haystack Rock. Parking is available in the immediate area.

Don’t miss out—come and be part of this incredible wildlife experience!

Children holding puffin toys while visitors look through scopes in Cannon Beach during The Great Puffin Watch.
Photo provided by Friends of Haystack Rock

Scopes and binoculars are available for use on event days.

About 100 tufted puffins nest on Haystack Rock.

Puffins travel hundreds of miles to reach Haystack Rock.

A "wildlife viewing" sign during The Great Puffin Watch.
Photo provided by Friends of Haystack Rock
Tufted puffins sitting on a rock in Cannon Beach during The Great Puffin Watch. Photo by Ram Papish
Photo by Ram Papish
A tufted puffin standing on a rock in Cannon Beach. Photo by Ram Papish
Photo by Ram Papish