Last night, August 20, 2026, Seaside Fire & Rescue responded to a report of a subject stranded along the rugged west coastline of Tillamook Head.
Responding crews coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard and staged at the Surfers Parking Lot in the Cove. Cannon Beach Police Department arrived shortly after and launched a drone in an attempt to locate the subject. Due to poor weather conditions, the drone was unable to reach the area indicated by the subject’s GPS coordinates.
The U.S. Coast Guard launched both a Motor Lifeboat and Helicopter while Seaside firefighters began hiking toward the provided GPS location. Cannon Beach Fire District was requested to assist with additional personnel for the search.
After approximately an hour and a half of hiking through rocky, uneven terrain, crews were able to establish voice contact with the subject and locate them shortly afterward. The subject was uninjured but fatigued.
Although the Coast Guard helicopter was overhead, weather conditions and the subject’s location prevented crews from safely conducting a hoist. Firefighters began escorting the subject back out on foot. After another three hours navigating the rocky, uneven terrain, crews and the subject safely reached the Surfers Parking Lot. The subject was evaluated and did not require medical treatment.
We appreciate the assistance and teamwork from Cannon Beach Fire District, Cannon Beach Police Department, and the United States Coast Guard throughout this incident.
Responding Fire & Rescue units:
3156 — Rescue
3251 — Rescue
3163 — Chief Officer
3202 — Chief Officer
Coastal Hiking Safety:
Tillamook Head and other areas along the Oregon Coast can present serious hazards, especially when hiking near the shoreline. Before heading out:
• Check tide tables and weather conditions before your hike.
• Be aware of incoming tides, sneaker waves, and heavy surf that can quickly cut off your route back.
• Avoid climbing or traveling on wet, unstable cliffs and rocks.
• Stay on established trails whenever possible.
• Carry a charged phone and consider bringing a portable battery.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.
• Give yourself plenty of daylight and never rely on the beach as an exit route without knowing the tides.
Conditions along the Oregon Coast can change quickly. Plan ahead, know your route, and always give the ocean plenty of space.
