Cannon Beach Oregon Travel Guide: Top Attractions & Local Tips

There’s something truly special about Cannon Beach Oregon. Tucked along the breathtaking Oregon Coast, this charming coastal town has been a beloved getaway for decades. From its iconic Haystack Rock to many art galleries and scenic trails, Cannon Beach Oregon is packed with things to do, see, and savor. If you’ve ever dreamed of a coastal escape where forested headlands meet endless shorelines, this guide will help you plan your perfect visit.

Getting to Cannon Beach Oregon

Cannon Beach Oregon is surprisingly accessible. Just a 90-minute drive from downtown Portland via Highway 26, the route winds through forests, coastal mountains, and small towns before rewarding you with your first peek at the Pacific Ocean. Many travelers stop at roadside viewpoints along the way. Once you arrive, you’ll find nearly every shop, gallery, and café clustered around the charming village center.

Explore Haystack Rock

No trip to Cannon Beach Oregon is complete without a walk out to Haystack Rock. This 235-foot sea stack towers over the shoreline and is easily one of the Oregon Coast’s most photographed landmarks. During low tide, colorful tide pools come alive with starfish, anemones, and other tiny marine wonders. Keep an eye out for tufted puffins that nest here in spring and summer. Haystack Rock is not just an icon — it’s a living habitat worth exploring.

Discover Ecola State Park

Just north of Cannon Beach Oregon, you’ll find Ecola State Park. A quick drive or bike ride brings you to lush coastal forests with dramatic ocean views. The hiking trails here range from easy strolls to more challenging climbs, and every trail offers breathtaking glimpses of the coastline. On clear days, you can see all the way to Tillamook Head and spot migrating whales in the surf below. Many visitors bring a picnic to enjoy at the viewpoints.

Stroll Downtown and Visit Many Art Galleries

The heart of Cannon Beach Oregon is its walkable downtown filled with unique shops, boutiques, and many art galleries. Local artists are inspired by the ever-changing moods of the ocean and forest. Stop in an art gallery to admire paintings, sculptures, and photography that capture the beauty of the Oregon Coast. If you visit during the annual Stormy Weather Arts Festival, you’ll see the community come alive with live music and gallery showcases.

Relax on the Sandy Beach

While Cannon Beach Oregon is famous for its iconic rock formations, the beach itself is just as special. Miles of soft sand invite you to walk, fly a kite, or simply sit and watch the waves roll in. You’ll often see families building sandcastles near Haystack Rock or flying colorful kites against the salty breeze. On sunny days, the beach is the best place to unwind and forget about the outside world.

Best Places to Eat in Cannon Beach Oregon

Seafood lovers will feel right at home in Cannon Beach Oregon. Many restaurants focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From clam chowder and fish tacos to gourmet farm-to-table meals, there’s something for every palate. Be sure to check out local farmers markets for fresh produce and ocean treats. After dinner, stroll to a nearby café for locally roasted coffee or homemade ice cream.

Where to Stay: Oceanfront Lodging and Cozy Inns

Visitors have plenty of options for oceanfront lodging in Cannon Beach Oregon. Stay steps from the sand and fall asleep to the sound of the surf. Many hotels and vacation rentals are dog-friendly, so your four-legged family members can enjoy the coast too. If you’d rather stay tucked in the forest, book a rustic cabin surrounded by spruce trees. Either way, you’re never far from the beach.

Outdoor Fun and Family Activities

Families come to Cannon Beach Oregon for more than just the sand. You can hike forest trails, explore tide pools, or rent bikes to cruise along the beach. During summer, families enjoy bonfires under the stars, with the sound of the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop. From wildlife watching to building driftwood forts, there’s endless family fun waiting here.

Local Tips for a Perfect Visit

When to Go: The Oregon Coast has its moods, but summer brings the most sunny days. Spring and fall are quieter, while winter storms create dramatic ocean scenes.

What to Bring: Dress in layers and pack a rain jacket just in case. Good walking shoes are a must for tide pooling at Haystack Rock or hiking Ecola State Park.

Getting Around: Once you park, you can explore nearly every shop and restaurant on foot. Many visitors leave their cars at their hotel and walk everywhere.

Exploring Beyond Cannon Beach Oregon

If you want to see more of the Oregon Coast, there’s plenty nearby. Drive just north of Cannon to visit Seaside’s vintage boardwalk and arcade. Or head south along the coast to discover lesser-known beaches, hidden coves, and more hiking trails. The Oregon Coast is perfect for road trips, with countless scenic stops along the way.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Downtown Cannon Beach Oregon is lined with boutiques and shops selling unique gifts. Look for handmade jewelry, coastal décor, or cozy sweaters perfect for chilly beach nights. Many shops feature local artists and artisans, so you’ll find treasures you can’t get anywhere else. Don’t forget to pick up a kite — flying it along the wide-open beach is a must.

Wildlife and Scenic Wonders

Keep your eyes open for wildlife. Sea birds, seals, and even whales make appearances along the Oregon Coast. Ecola State Park is a great spot for birdwatching and whale spotting, especially during migration seasons. Photographers love the rugged coastline’s dramatic cliffs, forests, and crashing waves.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Cannon Beach Oregon hosts several community events throughout the year. The Sandcastle Contest in June draws talented sculptors and crowds from all over the coast. The Stormy Weather Arts Festival each fall celebrates the local arts scene with gallery tours and music. Farmers markets in summer showcase fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts.

Dining With a View

Some of the best meals in Cannon Beach Oregon come with a Pacific Ocean view. For a memorable experience, book a table at a seafood restaurant overlooking the beach. Sunset dinners are especially magical here. For a more casual vibe, grab fresh fish and chips to go and enjoy them on a driftwood log by the surf.

A Coastal Town with Old World Charm

What sets Cannon Beach Oregon apart from other Oregon Coast towns is its small-town feel and timeless charm. Historic cottages, cozy inns, and friendly locals make every visit feel like coming home. Many visitors return year after year to reconnect with this beautiful place.

Why Cannon Beach Oregon Steals Hearts

It’s easy to see why Cannon Beach Oregon is one of the top spots on the Oregon Coast. With its combination of scenic beaches, many art galleries, fresh seafood, and forest trails, there’s something here for everyone. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find magic in this coastal town’s quiet beauty and friendly spirit.

Final Local Tips

• Get up early to enjoy Haystack Rock at sunrise without the crowds.
• Watch for wildlife — seals and seabirds are frequent visitors.
• Support local shops by picking up locally sourced gifts and crafts.
• Bring a camera — you’ll want to capture every view.
• Relax and take it slow — that’s the Cannon Beach Oregon way.

Plan Your Trip to Cannon Beach Oregon Today

Now that you know what makes Cannon Beach Oregon so special, all that’s left to do is plan your trip. Whether you come for the art, the wildlife, the trails, or simply the endless beach, this gem on the Oregon Coast will stay in your heart long after you leave.