Ecola State Park Guide — Beach, Hiking, and More 

Ecola State Park offers something for every visitor, whether you want to spend a day on the beach or learn about the fascinating history of this area. Visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails, sightseeing opportunities, surfing, beachgoing, tide pool explorations, and remarkable wildlife-watching opportunities.

How To Get to Ecola State Park

Where Is Ecola State Park?

Ecola State Park is near Cannon Beach, right on the Oregon shore. The nearest major city to this park is Portland, Oregon, about an hour and a half away. This park spans over 9 miles of coastline and surrounds Tillamook Head between Seaside and Cannon Beach.

Ecola State Park Opening Hours and Seasons

Ecola State Park is open year-round from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. However, some areas may be closed at certain times due to weather-related issues. It’s best to call before your visit to ensure everything on your must-see list is accessible.

Nearest Airport to Ecola State Park

The closest airport to the park is Portland International Airport (PDX). This airport is 90 miles from the park, and it takes about an hour and a half to drive to the park from the airport. Nonstop flights to nearly 100 locations around the world are offered at this airport, and there are countless connecting flights to destinations around the globe.

Many well-known airlines service this airport, including Allegiant, American, British Airways, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and United. Several car rental kiosks are in the facility, where you can arrange a vehicle to help you make the last leg of your journey to the park.

Driving to Ecola State Park

Visitors driving to Ecola State Park should take Highway 26 West, then Highway 101 South. After merging onto Highway 101 South, drive for 2.9 miles and turn right toward the park. Once you travel half a mile, take a right toward the park, and then take 1 final right onto the main park road.

Taking the Train to Ecola State Park

There is no train service to Ecola State Park.

Taking the Bus to Ecola State Park

Traveling to this park by bus is a great way to enjoy the ride and the sights of this area of Oregon. Amtrak offers bus service to Cannon Beach, just a few miles from the park. Once you arrive at the station, you can arrange a ride-share service or take a taxi the rest of the way to the park.

Getting Around Ecola State Park

The best way to explore this state park is by a combination of driving and walking. Several parking areas throughout the park allow you to leave your vehicle and explore on foot.

Hot Tip:

The park provides a printable map to help you plan your outings during your visit.

What To See and Do in Ecola State Park

There is an abundance of activities to enjoy at Ecola State Park, from hiking historic trails to picnicking on the beach, fishing, and observing wildlife. No matter your interest, you can easily find multiple ways to enjoy this park.

Beach

The scenic beach at Ecola State Park offers a beautiful blend of sandy stretches, majestic cliffs, and rugged coastlines. A visit to Indian Beach provides opportunities for various activities, including exploring fascinating tide pools, enjoying beachcombing, taking a refreshing swim, and even surfing on this secluded shoreline. Other beaches in the area include Crescent Beach and Cannon Beach.

Fishing

Ecola State Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts. The northern edge of Indian Beach, within the park, offers fantastic opportunities for catching a variety of fish. Anglers commonly reel in panfish, bass, salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and shellfish in this area. Fishing at the park allows visitors to enjoy the park’s serenity while engaging in this popular outdoor activity.

Hiking Trails

Ecola State Park offers a diverse range of hiking trails that wind through the park. With varying difficulty and distance, the trails cater to hikers of all skill levels and abilities.

Some of the most popular trails include the Clatsop Loop Trail, known for its historical significance as part of the route along Tillamook Head used by Lewis and Clark; the Crescent Beach Trail, offering stunning coastal views; and the Tillamook Head Trail, which provides a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience.

Oregon Coast Trail

The Oregon Coast Trail spans over 15 miles within this state park, starting from its northern boundary and extending to its southern end. This section of the trail is often referred to as the Lewis and Clark Discovery Trail, offering hikers an opportunity to experience the same route taken by Captain Clark, Sacagawea, and other members of the Corps of Discovery. It is one of the most popular and beloved trails in the park.

Wildlife Watching

A diverse collection of wildlife calls this park home. The best way to view these creatures is by hiking the scenic trails or spending a day on the beach. Some of the most commonly seen wildlife at the park include elk, deer, Stellar sea lions, and bald eagles. If you visit in the winter or spring, there is a chance you will see migrating gray whales. Catching sight of the wildlife at this park is sure to take your breath away.

Hot Tip:

Don’t forget your binoculars and camera to capture spectacular views of these animals.

Best Times To Visit Ecola State Park

This park is open year-round and offers an exceptional experience no matter what time of year you visit. If you want to enjoy a specific activity or experience during your visit, there may be a better time to plan your trip than others.

Best Time To Visit Ecola State Park for Whale Watching

If you hope to glimpse a majestic whale during your visit to Ecola State Park, you’re in luck. Whales can be spotted here year-round. The best time to see these creatures is in June when they come close to the shore to begin a season of feeding.

Best Time To Visit Ecola State Park To Avoid the Crowds

Beating the crowds is a great way to enjoy the park. The best time to visit for a more solitary experience is in December. This is when tourists are least likely to be at the park, allowing you to explore at your own pace without worrying about long lines, crowds, and heavy traffic.

Best Time To Visit Ecola State Park for Ideal Weather

It’s important to consider the weather when planning a vacation. August is an ideal time to visit because it’s one of the driest months of the year, with only about 4 days of rain on average. The temperatures typically range from the low 50s to mid-60s, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Cheapest Time To Visit Ecola State Park

Saving money while traveling may seem impossible, but it’s actually achievable with some research and planning. The most affordable time to visit Ecola State Park is from mid- to late September. During this time, you can find flights and accommodations at their lowest rates of the year. Visiting in September has the potential to save you hundreds of dollars in travel expenses.

Annual Events in Ecola State Park

There are no annual events that take place at Ecola State Park.

Where To Stay in Ecola State Park

Whether you enjoy camping under the stars or prefer a luxurious experience in a glamorous hotel, you can find the perfect vacation option to suit your travel needs.

Inside the Park

The only lodging in the park is to camp at Hiker’s Camp. This is the only location for camping within the boundaries of the park. The camping area is primitive and offers 3 small Adirondack-style shelters. These structures can accommodate 4 visitors who sleep on bunk-bed-style platforms.

A central picnic shelter, fire ring, and vault toilets are nearby. However, the park does not permit overnight parking, so you must arrange parking elsewhere.

Towns Near Ecola State Park

Numerous towns and cities near Ecola State Park serve as excellent home bases just a short drive from the park.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is a charming coastal town that serves as an ideal home base for visitors to Ecola State Park. The town is only 3 miles from the park, and National Geographic has recognized it as one of the world’s most beautiful places.

In Cannon Beach, you can enjoy dining in a variety of restaurants offering fresh seafood and home-cooked favorites. Many of these restaurants provide patio seating with stunning ocean views. There are numerous oceanfront lodgings right on the beach, including resorts, hotels, and lodges.

This town is perfectly located for a wide range of outdoor activities, such as marine life watching, tide pool exploration, hiking, and horseback riding. It also boasts an incredible arts, culture, and history scene. Visitors can spend the day at one of the town’s history centers, take a classic cottage tour, attend various art festivals, or visit local art galleries.

Bottom Line:

With its close proximity to the park and an abundance of things to see and do, Cannon Beach is an ideal place to stay when visiting Ecola State Park.

Seaside, Oregon

Seaside is about 8 miles from Ecola State Park. It’s a popular destination known for its beach culture and lively boardwalk. The town offers a variety of accommodations, including bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, RV parks, luxury hotels, budget-friendly motels, resorts, and private vacation rentals.

Seafood lovers will enjoy the dining scene, which includes numerous local seafood restaurants and options for sushi, pizza, and baked goods. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy biking, golfing, hiking, kayaking, and surfing.

For those who prefer indoor activities, there are historic museums, art galleries, interpretive centers, and unique downtown shops and antique malls to explore. Seaside is a lively base camp for visitors looking for a vibrant experience.

Where To Eat in Ecola State Park

There aren’t any dining options within the park’s boundaries, but there are many places to dine just a short drive from the park.

Castaways

Castaways is a family-owned restaurant in Cannon Beach, just a few minutes from the park. This restaurant specializes in international fusion cuisine and offers a menu full of diverse specialties. They are open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. This is a fantastic choice when you need a break from your park adventures.

Insomnia Coffee Company

Insomnia Coffee Company is one of the top-rated restaurants in Cannon Beach. Despite its name, this restaurant offers much more than just coffee, including bagels, biscuits, cinnamon rolls, muffins, and coffee cakes. You can visit this restaurant every day of the week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Osprey Cafe

Osprey Cafe is a highly-rated restaurant in Seaside, just 7 miles from the park. It serves breakfast and lunch and features international and American comfort food. The menu includes sweet or savory crepes, freshly baked scones, muffins, and cookies, as well as fresh salads, soups, and local seafood sandwiches and dishes. It’s an ideal place to fuel up for a big day of exploring the park.

Ecola State Park Facts

1. A New State Park Established

Ecola State Park was deeded to the Oregon State Park System on February 11, 1932.

2. Early Beginnings

The land that is now Ecola State Park was acquired from private owners and the federal government between 1932 and 1978. The Civilian Conservation Corps originally developed it under the National Park Service between 1934 and 1941. It has been continually developed and updated throughout the years.

3. Earth Slippage

In March 1961, Ecola State Park experienced a landslide that removed a parking area and parts of a roadway, destroying stone buildings that once occupied a portion of the park. This event, known as “Earth Slippage,” led to the park’s closure for some time.

4. Tillamook Head

One of the park’s main highlights is Tillamook Head, a rocky bluff that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. This high point is between Seaside and Indian Beach and was named after the Tillamook tribes that occupied the area.

5. National Recreation Trail

Captain Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition used the Tillamook Head Trail in the winter of 1806. In April 1972, this trail was named a National Recreation Trail. It extends for 6 miles from the towns of Seaside to Cannon Beach.

Final Thoughts

Ecola State Park is an amazing vacation destination. There’s something for everyone to enjoy here, including a rich natural and cultural history, opportunities for wildlife watching, picnicking, beach activities, and historic hiking trails. With so much to see and do here, it’s no wonder half a million visitors visit this coastal park each year.