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JTM Rentals
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Author
JTM Rentals
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Welcome to Cannon Beach, Oregon, where the dramatic beauty of the Pacific Northwest meets small-town coastal charm. Whether you’re visiting to relax on sandy shores, take in the stunning views of Haystack Rock, or indulge in some of the finest local cuisine, there’s something undeniably magical about this little slice of paradise.
But while Cannon Beach is known for its breathtaking scenery, there’s one landmark off the coast that holds a story all its own—Tilly the Lighthouse.
The Story Behind Tilly
Formally known as the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, “Tilly” sits perched on a craggy outcrop about a mile offshore from Cannon Beach. Built in 1881, this iconic structure has earned quite a reputation over the years, standing as both a testament to human determination and a silent witness to the sometimes ferocious power of the sea.
Before it was constructed, the waters off the Oregon coast had a notorious reputation for wrecking ships. Mariners knew that the unpredictable weather and jagged rocks lurking beneath the waves were a constant threat. The construction of a lighthouse seemed like an obvious solution—though building it on a small, weather-beaten rock in the middle of the ocean was no small feat.
In fact, the project was plagued with difficulties from the start. The rock upon which the lighthouse now stands was so treacherous that it earned the nickname “Terrible Tilly.” It was battered by storms, high winds, and relentless waves even as workers struggled to complete the structure. Despite the challenges, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse finally opened in January of 1881, but not without a few stories of its own.
Just days before the official lighting of the beacon, the British barque Lupatia tragically ran aground near the lighthouse site, claiming the lives of all aboard. The event added to Tilly’s reputation as a haunted place, and some say the spirits of lost sailors still linger near her shores.

Terrible Tilly
A Beacon of Safety (and Mystery)
For over 70 years, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse guided ships safely past the Oregon coast, but the lighthouse keepers who worked there led anything but a peaceful life. Isolated and subject to harsh weather, they often endured long stints on the rock without relief. With waves regularly crashing over the structure and supplies delivered by boat in perilous conditions, many keepers found life at Tilly lonely and grueling.
In 1957, the Coast Guard decommissioned the lighthouse, and it’s been dark ever since. Today, the lighthouse is privately owned and off-limits to visitors, but its presence still looms large over the coastline. Though no longer active, Tilly’s story continues to captivate locals and visitors alike.
A View from the Shore
While you may not be able to step foot on Tilly herself, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the lighthouse right from Cannon Beach. Imagine standing on the shore as the sun sets, casting a warm glow on the rolling waves, with Tilly’s silhouette etched against the horizon—a perfect way to end your day of beachcombing or tidepool exploration.
The beauty of Cannon Beach isn’t just in its scenic landscapes but in the stories and legends woven into the fabric of the town. As you settle into your cozy beach condo rental, take a moment to reflect on the rich maritime history that surrounds you. Whether you’re relaxing by the fire, sipping your morning coffee with a view of the ocean, or exploring the charming streets of downtown, you’re part of a story that’s been unfolding for centuries.
So, when you visit Cannon Beach, don’t forget to cast your gaze offshore and tip your hat to Tilly the Lighthouse—an enduring symbol of courage, mystery, and the spirit of the Oregon coast.
Book your stay today and experience the magic of Cannon Beach, where history, beauty, and adventure await at every turn.