Haystack Rock is touted as being the 3rd largest monolith in the world. It is located 79 miles west of Portland, Oregon on the west coast. During the summer it is still the busiest coastal playground in Oregon, due to its close proximity to Portland. In the summer it is a beachcomber's mecca and well known for sunbathing, volleyball, jogging, walking with your canine buddies enjoying delicious seafood meals of dungeness crab and razor clams. In the early morning surf you will see diehard clammers and the occasional crabbers around the rocks on the north end at Chapman Point.

Ecola State Park is up a very steep and windy drivable road into the hills but the view when you arrive is not like any other in the world! Further along is Indian Beach where the surfers dare to go. Along the bluffs of Tillamook Head, a seven mile, windy hiking trail meanders its way toward the next coastal town of Seaside. Be forewarned that the trail is for more experienced hikers and definitely not a good trail for children as it's arduous and can sometimes involve a bit of climbing over fallen trees.

Indian Beach is also a lovely place to enjoy a day's adventure more leisurely activities such as family picnics, flying kites, frolicking in the surf, building sandcastles or just enjoying a good book while working on your tan. And don't forget to bring your camera!

One of the largest attractions in June is the yearly Sand Castle Contest in Cannon beach. Everyone from children to professional sculptors is invited to join in and the amazing skill of the many participants is worthy of memorable photos for your scrap booking pleasure and online downloads to friends and relatives.