It’s impossible to find a place with more diverse beauty than Oregon. From our lush, green forests to our sweeping sand dunes and beautiful rivers, we’ve pretty much got it all. One place in Oregon continually receives world-wide recognition: Cannon Beach. This picturesque beach was featured in National Geographic as one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world back in 2013, and ever since, numerous publications have agreed. What makes it so stunning? Take a look:

Cannon Beach is undeniably Oregon’s most recognizable beach.

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Its most prominent feature, Haystack Rock is unmistakable. The 235-foot-tall seastack towers over the landscape, and it offers tide pools for star fish and anemones below, and nesting spots for puffins and terns on its walls.

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Haystack Rock is made up of basalt created by lava that flowed here 16 million years ago. The three smaller rock formations at its base are known as The Needles.

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One look at this gorgeous beach and it’s easy to see why National Geographic and other travel publications proclaimed it one of the most beautiful in the world!

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It’s hard to tear your gaze away from this pretty place, but once you do, you’ll find a plethora of activities to enjoy right on the beach. Take a horseback ride along the surf…

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…or build a sand castle a safe distance from the waves. Every June, you can even check out some impressive sand castles at the annual Sandcastle Contest.

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Stretch your legs on one of the nearby hiking trails, some of which provide excellent views high above the coastline.

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You’ll undoubtedly want to have your camera ready for a Cannon Beach sunset.

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As the light fades from the sky, snuggle up in front of a fire, roast some s’mores, and enjoy your evening on the beach.

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When did you last visit Cannon Beach? Tell us about your trip there in the comments!

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Address: Cannon Beach, OR, USA