To get the true essence of the Oregon coast, nothing is better than Cannon Beach. The iconic Haystack rock is mere steps away from the main drag of town on a large beach with plenty of places to relax the afternoon away. It is one of the MANY great day trips from Portland.

Venture beyond the main shopping and dining areas where you will find weathered, cedar-shingle residences and vacation homes, just steps from the beach. Wispy bushes dot the sand dunes as you approach the ocean, inviting you to come to explore what might be around next corner.

What better way to experience quintessential Oregon than a visit to Cannon Beach?

Things to Do in Cannon Beach

Haystack Rock. At low tide, you are able to walk around this behemoth of beauty and explore the tide pools. However, it is a state-protected marine area, so you are not allowed in certain areas and you definitely cannot pick up any sort of sea life. In the summertime, you will see tiny crabs scuttle their way beneath the sand in the shallow waters surrounding Haystack rock. Barnacles hold fast to the sides of other rocks surrounding the beach, and you might even come across an anemone or two, or see some puffins perched on the rocks above.

High tide means the water has completely surrounded Haystack Rock, but its still fun to dip your toes in the water. Just don’t get too far out, as the waters can be dangerously choppy, especially in the winter months. For hardcore surfers, there is the most popular surf beach in Oregon just a few miles down the road.

Ecola State Park. You can do it all here. Camp, hike, surf, and picnic. Located conveniently north of Cannon Beach.

Where to Shop in Cannon Beach

Hemlock Street is the main drag that runs through most of the town of Cannon Beach and is the main place to find all of the shops. We’re talking craft stores, souvenir gift shops, upscale art galleries, you name it.

Places to Eat in Cannon Beach

Pig ‘n Pancake. For breakfast! An upscale diner-type atmosphere with incredibly tasty breakfast fare for all tastes.

Brew and Screw. They brew their own beer and offer a chef-run menu. Get your gourmet burgers and hardware all in one place!

Moe’s Seafood & Chowder. An affordable and casual seafood restaurant, with a kitschy gift shop at the entrance. Fun.

Newman’s. A more upscale, but still cozy, French-Italian restaurant. Good for that very special evening at the coast.

Where to Stay in Cannon Beach

Inexpensive. The Tolovana Inn. They have a wide range of room options, from affordable standard room to one-bedroom luxury suites with fireplaces.

Moderate. The Surfsand Resort. Also located near the beach, and is very close to Haystack Rock. They also have wedding packages!

Upscale. The Stephanie Inn is right on the beach. Amenities include fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs in the rooms. You will also get complimentary newspapers and a buffet breakfast every morning.

There are also a number of vacation rental houses found throughout town that are very budget-friendly if you are traveling with other couples or families.

PRO TIP:

For fewer crowds and less expensive accommodation, book a mid-week trip. The ideal time of year is in the summer months, from June through September. Beyond that, the Oregon cold creeps up, and while the beach is still beautiful, the temperatures can be erratic and downright rainy at times.