Hug Point Waterfall and Cave

Hug Point is located just 4-5 miles south of the famous Cannon Beach along HWY 101 and is a must stop on any travel along the Oregon coast. Hug Point got its name from the original travelers to this beautiful area. Without the modern day highways we know today, visitors to this rugged coast line had to travel by stagecoach along the beach. The adventurous travelers had to "Hug" the sides of the sandstone cliffs during low tide to make their way up and down the coast. Thus the name Hug Point was born. 

Today the tracks left in the rock by the stagecoach route can still be seen in some locations at low tide. Although we now have a modern and safe way to travel along this stretch of coastline, the tides still remain constant. When traveling to Hug Point, don't be surprised if you have to get your feet wet. The cliffs and sea caves can still pose a grave danger to any would be adventurers exploring the waterfall and surrounding coastline. Make sure you always have a way out before the tide rolls in. 

Hug Point state park embodies everything we imagine in the the Oregon coastline. Beautiful spruce trees reach high into the sky, balancing along the edge of 50 foot cliffs. The sandy beach is dotted with damp mysterious sea caves and rocky outcroppings, such as the famous Haystack Rock, dot the horizon. The park is just a short drive south from where we camped in Cannon Beach. Cannon Beach offers an abundance of breweries,restaurants, and outdoor entertainment.

The park has a large parking lot and we didn't have any trouble parking during the 4th of July weekend. The parking lot also offers restrooms and is only a short walk to the beach. As you make your way to the beach you will see a trail cutting through the tall trees off to your right, there was no sign marking the trail. It looks as if it has simply been made by people walking through the bushes to get a glimpse of the Hug Point waterfall from above. The easier route to the waterfall and cave is from the beach. Once you are on the beach, head north/right around a large section of cliff that juts out towards the ocean. 

At low tide you will easily be able to walk around this section of cliff. At high tide you better be ready for a swim. Once you make your way around this point, you will see Hug Point and the waterfall in front of you about 200 yards. Just north of the waterfall is one of the sea caves which is a cool place to explore and take some cool shots. The waterfall was at a trickle on the day we went, so I'm assuming its better in the winter. It was still really cool to see and definitely worth the stop. The beach is perfect to picnic, swim or just enjoy a relaxing day with family and friends.