Cannon Beach, United States Guide
Cannon Beach, Oregon, is more than just a pretty picture – though its iconic Haystack Rock rising majestically from the Pacific certainly helps! This charming coastal town offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, artistic flair, and small-town charm. Imagine strolling along wide sandy beaches, exploring tide pools teeming with marine life, and breathing in the fresh, salty air. Beyond the beach, Cannon Beach boasts a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries showcasing local talent. Quaint shops line the streets, offering everything from handcrafted souvenirs to gourmet treats. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a relaxing escape from the everyday, Cannon Beach promises an unforgettable experience.
Food & Cuisine
Cannon Beach's culinary scene is a delightful reflection of its coastal location, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood. Expect to find Dungeness crab, salmon, and other locally sourced catches gracing menus throughout town. For a classic Cannon Beach experience, head to Ecola Seafood Restaurant & Market for their famous fish and chips and stunning ocean views. Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge offers a more upscale dining experience with creative seafood dishes and craft cocktails. For a casual bite, try the Cannon Beach Smokehouse for delicious smoked salmon and other local delicacies. Don't forget to indulge in some saltwater taffy, a quintessential Cannon Beach treat!
Nightlife
Cannon Beach's nightlife is generally relaxed and revolves around enjoying the coastal atmosphere. Several restaurants and bars offer live music on weekends, creating a lively but not overly boisterous atmosphere. The Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge is a popular spot for evening drinks with ocean views. For a more casual pub experience, check out Bill's Tavern & Brewhouse, known for its handcrafted beers and hearty pub fare. While Cannon Beach doesn't have a dedicated "nightlife district," the main street area offers a variety of options for evening entertainment.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cannon Beach is during the shoulder seasons, specifically late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). During these months, you'll experience milder weather, fewer crowds, and often lower prices compared to the peak summer season. Summer (July-August) offers the warmest temperatures but also attracts the largest crowds. Winter (November-February) can be stormy and wet, but it also provides a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of the Pacific Ocean and enjoy the town's cozy atmosphere.
Transportation
Cannon Beach is a relatively small town, making it easily walkable. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. For exploring areas outside the immediate town center, personal vehicles are the most common mode of transportation. Limited public transportation options exist, primarily through regional bus services connecting to larger cities like Portland. Consider ride-sharing services or taxis for point-to-point travel if you don't have a car.
Airport
The closest major airport to Cannon Beach is Portland International Airport (PDX), located approximately 80 miles (129 kilometers) east of the town. The most convenient way to travel from PDX to Cannon Beach is by renting a car. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can arrange for a shuttle service or private car transfer, although these options are generally more expensive. Public transportation options are limited and involve multiple transfers, making them less practical for most travelers.
Attractions
Tillamook Rock Lighthouse
Though not directly accessible, the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, also known as 'Terrible Tilly,' is visible from Cannon Beach on a clear day. This historic lighthouse sits on a small, rocky island offshore and has a fascinating, albeit tragic, history. Learn about its past and admire its rugged beauty from afar.
Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park offers panoramic views of the coastline, including Haystack Rock. Hike the scenic trails through lush forests, explore hidden coves, and discover breathtaking viewpoints. It's a fantastic place for photography, picnicking, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast.
Oswald West State Park
A short drive north of Cannon Beach, Oswald West State Park is a coastal paradise. Hike through lush rainforests to Short Sand Beach, a secluded cove perfect for surfing and picnicking. Explore the dramatic cliffs, enjoy the stunning ocean views, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach itself is a major attraction. Stroll along the sandy shore, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It's perfect for beachcombing, kite flying, or simply relaxing and soaking up the coastal atmosphere. Don't forget to watch the sunset!
Icefire Glassworks
Watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass art at Icefire Glassworks. See demonstrations of glassblowing techniques and browse the gallery for unique souvenirs and gifts. It's a fascinating and creative experience for art lovers.
Hug Point State Recreation Site
Hug Point is a unique coastal area where you can walk along the beach at low tide and see the remnants of an old stagecoach road carved into the headland. Explore the sea caves, tide pools, and enjoy the dramatic scenery. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk and discovering the area's history.
Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site
Just south of Cannon Beach, Arcadia Beach offers a quieter and more secluded beach experience. Explore the tide pools, walk along the sandy shore, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot for a relaxing getaway and enjoying the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast.
Cannon Beach History Center & Museum
Delve into the rich history of Cannon Beach at this informative museum. Discover exhibits on the area's Native American heritage, maritime history, and the development of the town. It's a great place to learn about the cultural and natural heritage of this coastal community.
Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site
Located just south of Haystack Rock, Tolovana Beach offers stunning views and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's a great spot for beachcombing, kite flying, and enjoying the coastal scenery. You can also access tide pools at low tide and explore the marine life.
Haystack Rock
Haystack Rock is the iconic symbol of Cannon Beach. This massive sea stack is a haven for seabirds like puffins and offers incredible tide pooling opportunities at low tide. Explore the intertidal zone, marvel at the diverse marine life, and capture stunning photos of this natural wonder. It's a must-see for any visitor!
Bronze Coast Gallery
The Bronze Coast Gallery features a diverse collection of bronze sculptures and other fine art. Browse the gallery and admire the intricate details and craftsmanship of the artwork. It's a great place to appreciate art and find unique pieces for your collection.
Day Trips
Seaside offers a classic Oregon coast experience with its bustling promenade, sandy beach, and family-friendly attractions. Stroll along the iconic Promenade, play arcade games, or rent a bike and explore the scenic coastline. The Seaside Aquarium is a must-visit, where you can even feed the seals! With its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Seaside is a perfect day trip for all ages.
Approximately 20 minutes driving Garibaldi is a small fishing town located on Tillamook Bay. It's a great place to experience the working waterfront and enjoy fresh seafood. Take a scenic train ride on the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, go crabbing or fishing, or simply relax and watch the boats come and go.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes driving Pacific City is a charming coastal town known for its iconic Haystack Rock (a smaller version of the one in Cannon Beach!), its dory fishing fleet, and the award-winning Pelican Brewing Company. Watch the dory boats launch directly from the beach, hike to the top of Cape Kiwanda for stunning views, and enjoy a craft beer while watching the sunset.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving Tillamook is synonymous with cheese, and a visit to the Tillamook Creamery is a must! Witness the cheese-making process, sample delicious cheeses, and indulge in ice cream. Beyond the creamery, explore the Tillamook Air Museum, housed in a massive WWII blimp hangar, or enjoy the natural beauty of the Tillamook State Forest.
Approximately 1 hour driving Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, is a charming port city brimming with maritime history and stunning views. Explore the Astoria Column for panoramic vistas, delve into the past at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, and wander through the historic downtown, filled with antique shops and local eateries. Don't miss the chance to see the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge, one of the longest continuous truss bridges in North America.
Approximately 30 minutes driving Manzanita is a sophisticated and serene coastal town with a beautiful seven-mile-long beach. Perfect for a relaxing day trip, Manzanita offers art galleries, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. Hike to the top of Neahkahnie Mountain for breathtaking views of the coastline, or simply stroll along the beach and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Approximately 30 minutes driving Seaside
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Garibaldi
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Pacific City
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Tillamook
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Astoria
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Manzanita
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