Drone Flying Conditions in Cannon Beach

The live score above pulls today's forecast and scores wind, gusts, visibility, precipitation, and temperature into a single flight verdict. 90+ is ideal. Below 60, conditions require caution or postponement. Cannon Beach's Pacific exposure means persistent onshore wind, frequent fog, and rain for much of the year — flyable windows are real but require daily checking.

Oregon's beaches are publicly accessible, but Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach is a Marine Garden and Protected Wildlife Area — drones are prohibited within 1,000 feet of the rock to protect nesting seabirds. The broader beach may allow drone use outside protected zones, but city ordinances and seasonal wildlife closures vary. Ecola State Park prohibits drones. Always verify current local rules and check with FAA B4UFLY before flying.

Above 10–12 mph sustained, footage quality degrades. Above 20 mph or with gusts 15+ mph above sustained wind, most consumer drones are at risk. Cannon Beach's open Pacific exposure means onshore wind regularly exceeds safe flying thresholds — morning sessions before the sea breeze builds are typically your best window.

DroneCast scores flight conditions using wind, gusts, precipitation, visibility, and temperature. GoldCast (same app) scores golden hour quality and timing. Free on web at lightcastsuite.com/dronecast, full features in the LightCast iOS app. $2.99/month after a 7-day free trial.