Stay in Cannon BeachFree visitor guide
Puffin Season · April – August

Puffin Season in Cannon Beach

Get our free printable guide: 7 insider tips for spotting tufted puffins at Haystack Rock.

  • The best months and time of day to see them
  • Exactly where on the rock to look
  • What to bring, and how to get a free look through a spotting scope
Cover of the Puffin Season in Cannon Beach guide
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SeasonApril – August
PeakMay – July
Best timeEarly morning & evening
CostFree, right from the beach
What's inside

Seven tips that make the difference between dots and puffins

  • 1
    Come between April and AugustWhen they arrive, when they peak and when they leave.
  • 2
    Go early, or stay lateThe hours when puffins are most active at the rock.
  • 3
    Bring binocularsPlus where to find free spotting scopes in season.
  • 4
    Know where to lookThe part of Haystack Rock where they nest.
  • 5
    Time it with low tidePuffins and tide pools in a single trip.
  • 6
    Give the birds their spaceThe wildlife refuge rules every visitor should know.
  • 7
    Watch for the rest of the castThe other seabirds and wildlife sharing the rock.
Haystack Rock rising from the beach at Cannon Beach under a cloudy sky A tufted puffin standing in green grass near its burrow
Turtle Cove's private patio with fire pit and seating Turtle Cove's remodeled kitchen
Where to stay · Puffin watcher's pick

Wake up five homes from the beach at Turtle Cove

The best puffin viewing happens early, and it's easy when you're already here. Turtle Cove is a remodeled, pet-friendly cottage in midtown Cannon Beach, an easy walk along the sand to Haystack Rock.

  • 2 king suites
  • 2 ensuite baths
  • Sleeps 4
  • Pets welcome
  • Fire pit
  • EV charger
Book direct at hlvrturtlecove.com →
Free download

Don't miss puffin season

Print it, pack it, and be at Haystack Rock for the early-morning show.

Get the free guide