Discovering Cannon Beach, Oregon’s iconic shoreline

Cannon Beach sits on Oregon’s northern coast, offering one of the most iconic shorelines in the Pacific Northwest. Its wide, sandy beach stretches for miles, framed by dramatic cliffs and sea stacks. Haystack Rock, the most famous of these, rises 235 feet from the surf and attracts photographers and wildlife lovers.

Beyond its natural beauty, Cannon Beach is a cultural hub. Visitors can wander through art galleries, sample coastal cuisine, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. It’s the town that blends rugged coastal wilderness with small-town charm.

This guide offers refined insights to ensure your Cannon Beach visit feels seamless, enriching, and unforgettable.

Best Time to Visit

Cannon Beach has a mild climate shaped by the Pacific Ocean. Summers are cool, rarely topping 70°F, and perfect for long walks along the shoreline. July and August are peak season, filled with festivals, families, and higher lodging costs.

Late spring and early fall bring quieter days and more affordable stays. May, June, and September still offer sunshine without the heaviest crowds. These shoulder seasons are ideal for travelers seeking a balance between activity and relaxation.

Winter draws storm watchers rather than sunseekers. Towering waves pound the coast, creating dramatic scenes. It’s a magical time for those who prefer cozy fires, fewer people, and raw coastal energy.

How to Get There

The closest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), about 80 miles away. From there, most travelers rent a car and take Highway 26 west through forested mountains before merging onto Highway 101 south. The scenic drive takes about 90 minutes.

If driving isn’t an option, shuttle services run between Portland and Cannon Beach. While convenient, they don’t offer the same flexibility as a rental car, which is useful for exploring nearby towns and state parks.

Cannon Beach has no train station, and bus options are limited. Travelers who want freedom to explore the coastline almost always find that having their own vehicle makes the trip easier and more rewarding.

Where to Stay

Cannon Beach caters to a range of budgets and styles. Budget travelers often stay in Seaside, a short drive north, where motels and family lodges are plentiful and affordable.

Mid-range visitors can choose from boutique inns, beachfront cottages, or hotels with fireplaces and ocean views. Many are just steps from downtown, giving easy access to shops and restaurants.

Luxury seekers will find oceanfront resorts with spas, gourmet dining, and rooms overlooking Haystack Rock. These properties often include fireplaces, balconies, and personalized service, making the trip extra special.

Top Things to Do

The highlight for most is Haystack Rock, a natural wonder that doubles as a wildlife sanctuary. At low tide, tide pools brim with colorful starfish and sea anemones. In spring and summer, puffins nest on the rock’s cliffs.

Ecola State Park, just north of town, offers hiking trails with sweeping coastal views. Whale watching is popular here during migration seasons, and the vistas stretch as far as Tillamook Head.

Downtown Cannon Beach provides a change of pace. Art galleries, boutiques, and festivals bring culture to the coast. For a unique outing, Hug Point reveals sea caves, small waterfalls, and remnants of an old stagecoach road carved into the cliffs.

What to Eat

Seafood is at the heart of Cannon Beach dining. Dungeness crab, razor clams, and freshly caught salmon appear on menus throughout town. For a casual meal, fish and chips by the beach never disappoint.

Pelican Brewing Company is a favorite stop for craft beer and hearty coastal dishes. EVOO Cannon Beach Cooking School offers interactive dining combining entertainment and fine food.

Sweet treats are also part of the experience. Local shops sell saltwater taffy, handmade chocolates, and freshly baked pastries. Pairing a pastry with coffee from a local café is a morning ritual for many visitors.

Getting Around

Cannon Beach is small and highly walkable. The central district is easy to explore on foot, with shops, restaurants, and beach access all within minutes.

Biking is another fun way to get around, with rentals available in town. While Cannon Beach doesn’t have a public bus system, nearby cities along Highway 101 connect via regional transit.

For full freedom, having a car is best. It allows easy day trips to Seaside, Manzanita, or state parks. Parking fills quickly in summer, so arriving early is recommended when the town is busiest.

Sample Itinerary

3-Day Cannon Beach Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive and check into your lodging. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown shops and art galleries. Enjoy dinner at a local seafood spot, then stroll the beach at sunset near Haystack Rock.

Day 2: Begin with a morning hike in Ecola State Park, followed by a picnic overlooking the Pacific. Return to town to explore tide pools at low tide, then shop or relax at a café. End the day with dinner and craft beer at Pelican Brewing.

Day 3: Visit Hug Point to explore its sea caves and waterfalls. Enjoy brunch in town before taking a final walk along the northern stretch of beach. Depart with lasting views of the coastline.

Costs & Budgeting Tips

Daily expenses vary depending on travel style. Budget travelers can expect $80–$120 daily, staying in motels and eating casual meals.

Mid-range visitors usually spend $150–$250 daily, enjoying boutique inns and casual and sit-down dining. Luxury travelers often exceed $300 daily when staying in oceanfront resorts and dining at gourmet restaurants.

To save, visit during the shoulder seasons when hotels lower rates. Packing a picnic and exploring free natural attractions like the beach and parks keeps costs down.

Cultural Tips & Local Etiquette

Cannon Beach has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Casual clothing is the norm, but layers are essential because coastal weather changes quickly.

Beach bonfires are allowed in designated areas, but always check fire restrictions before lighting one. Respect marine life in tide pools by observing without touching.

Standard U.S. tipping applies in restaurants, usually 15–20%. Locals value eco-conscious behavior, so bringing reusable bottles and bags shows thoughtfulness and respect.

Safety and Travel Tips

Cannon Beach is generally safe, but the ocean can be unpredictable. Sneaker waves and strong currents require caution. Always keep an eye on the surf when walking near the water.

When hiking, stay on marked trails since cliffs can be unstable. During storm season, rather than getting too close to the shoreline, admire the waves safely.

For emergencies, the Cannon Beach Police and Fire Departments serve the area. The nearest hospital is Providence Seaside Hospital, located about 10 minutes north in Seaside.

Useful Apps & Resources

Google Maps and Maps.me are handy for navigation, even offline. For tide schedules, the “Tides Near Me” app ensures safe timing when exploring tide pools.

The Oregon Coast Visitors Association app provides regional updates, activity ideas, and local events. Food delivery is limited, but many restaurants offer takeout or pickup options.

Downloading a reliable weather app helps with planning, since conditions can change suddenly along the coast. Staying flexible ensures a smoother trip.

Final Thoughts or Insider Advice

Cannon Beach is more than a day trip; it’s a destination that rewards slow exploration. Taking time to walk the shoreline at different times of day reveals shifting colors and moods of the Pacific.

Plan for layers of clothing, pack comfortable shoes, and allow time to explore beyond the town itself. Minor detours to hidden coves or nearby towns add depth to your visit.

Above all, balance activity with relaxation. Whether storm watching, dining on seafood, or sitting by a fire after a long walk, Cannon Beach offers an experience that feels timeless and unforgettable.

TL;DR

• Cannon Beach is Oregon’s most iconic shoreline, famous for Haystack Rock and a vibrant small-town atmosphere.
• The best time to visit is late spring to early fall for mild weather and lighter crowds; winter is ideal for storm watching.
• The closest airport is Portland (PDX), with a 90-minute scenic drive via Highway 26 and 101.
• Lodging ranges from budget motels in Seaside to boutique inns and luxury oceanfront resorts in Cannon Beach.
• Top activities include tide pooling at Haystack Rock, hiking in Ecola State Park, and exploring Hug Point’s sea caves.
• Seafood dominates the food scene, with local favorites like Dungeness crab, salmon, and casual fish-and-chips spots.

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This article was made with AI assistance and human editing.