Cannon Beach is one of the most beautiful spots on the Oregon Coastal Highway, with its long sandy beach on the Pacific Ocean, tidal pools, and Haystack Rock. While it feels like a world away from Portland to Cannon Beach, it is actually quite easy to reach and worth adding time on your Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary. Cannon Beach is surrounded by lovely woodlands with many wonderful parks to explore nearby. The town itself was only incorporated in 1957 and the town center is very quaint with many shingled buildings that are weathered by the misty ocean breezes. If you are planning an Oregon Coast Road Trip or want to get away with the girls, your significant other, or relax, this is the place for you. There is an assortment of wonderful hotels, restaurants, cafes, and stores that will make your stay pleasant and memorable.
In June 2013, National Geographic named Cannon Beach, “One of the World’s 100 Most Beautiful Places”. That means you have no excuses to not take some time for a road trip from Portland to Cannon Beach, Oregon.
Read more: Experience The Quaint Seaside Getaway From Portland To Cannon Beach*Disclaimer:This Post May Contain Sponsored Content And Or/ Affiliate Links. This Is A Way I Make An Income From My Blog. I Am A Participant In The Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. An Affiliate Advertising Program Designed To Provide A Means For Sites To Earn Advertising Fees By Advertising And Linking To Amazon.Com Thanks to Travel Oregon for hosting me at the Surfsand Resort. All opinions are my own and honestreview of my time in Astoria Warrenton.
Where is Cannon Beach located?
Cannon Beach is the Oregon Coastal Highway, Route 101, and is only 25 miles from Astoria, Oregon, and about 80 miles to Portland, making it a very doable drive for the day or several days or weekends. I found it to be one of the top choices on my list given the laid-back, resort-like vibe. This city is located on Oregon’s northwest coast.
How to get from Portland to Cannon Beach, Oregon
By Car:
Driving is the most common and convenient way to travel from Portland to Cannon Beach. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Route:
Start on US-26 W: From downtown Portland, get on US-26 West. This highway is known as the Sunset Highway.
Follow US-26 W: Continue on US-26 W for approximately 70 miles. The route is scenic, taking you through the Oregon Coast Range.
Exit onto OR-101 S: Near the town of Seaside, take the exit for OR-101 South towards Cannon Beach.
Arrive in Cannon Beach: Follow OR-101 S for about 4 miles until you reach the entrance to Cannon Beach.
Where to stay on Cannon Beach – Surfsand Resort
We arrived at Cannon Beach on our Oregon Coast Road Trip via the coastal highway and arrived at Surfsand Resort. Surfsand Resort is a premier resort with rooms directly on Oregon’s coast with great views of Haystack Rock. Our room had a lovely view of the ocean with an ocean balcony, cozy robes, and a large spacious bathroom with both a tub and shower. Surfsand had a great indoor pool, sauna, and workout facility. Also, the phenomenal Wayfarer Restaurant overlooking the beach and Haystack Rock was the perfect place to go to eat while enjoying our time at the resort. The resort is also just a short walk to Cannon Beach’s charming downtown. We loved our stay at Surfsand
Note: There are other places to stay in the town and waterfront, but we loved our stay here and would come back in a heartbeat. The staff at the hotel and restaurant were so nice and helpful. It was also cool to see so many Porsche car owners who were staying here as part of a Porsche Rally. I wish we had planned another day to stay
Restaurants In Cannon Beach Oregon
There was quite a selection of restaurants in Cannon Beach. Below are our top two picks.
Wayfarer Restaurant and Lounge www.wayfarer-restaurant.com
The Wayfarer Restaurant is located at Surfsand Resort. It is wonderful with a great view of the ocean hitting the beach and Haystack Rock, as well as great dishes with a great selection of steak, seafood, and more from locally sourced ingredients. We had the mouthwatering mussels and lobster mac and cheese as appetizers followed by King salmon with risotto, and filet mignon. At the end we had Haystack Heaven for dessert, it was chocolate heaven. You may want to make reservations since it is a popular place to dine. I also noticed that folks from the nearby hotels order foo
Pizza A’Fetta Italian Restaurant www.pizza-a-fetta.com
When we arrived in Cannon Beach we were starving and we were told “Try Pizza A’Fetta”, well it was great. They serve gourmet pizzas, pasta, minestrone soup, and salads, etc. According to the company they started in 1988 and are ranked one of the top 50 pizzas in the nation. Besides having indoor seating, as we chose, they also had an outside pick-up window where people could buy it, even by the slice made from scratch daily. The food was great, but so was the service; our waitress was so charming. We loved the Triple Cheese Pizza. It is great whether you want to stay or get it to go. (This is the original location but they also have a location in Seaside, OR.)
Cafes and Coffee in Cannon Beach, Oregon:
I love a good latte, coffee, hot chocolate, and anything associated with coffee, thus below are some of the cafes we stopped by while in town. While our hotel room had a coffee maker, we did like to go to the local coffee shops and cafesto try the local coffee, and it didn’t disappoint. Having a bit of caffeine was great after walking along the beach or in the forest. We truly enjoyed the shops. One thing I would advise is to check the times since in Oregon we found some cafes close earlier than others. I primarily drink coffee drinks or chai, etc. so finding a great cafe like those we tried or were recommended was a great help.
The Cannon Beach Chocolate Cafe www.cannonbeachchocolatecafe.com
One of the first places we stopped by for a coffee was at this cute little cafe. Besides having tasty hot chocolate, they sold chocolates. It was quite busy on this misty day and a great way to enjoy a bit of chocolate and caffeine. They serve Lilly brand coffee in their cafe. The smell of chocolate was also so addictive. It was interesting to see foam covered in chocolate. Very interesting. I do say, it was a busy shop with some internal and external seats.
Insomnia Coffee Co. www.insomniacoffee.co
On the last day, we stopped at Insomnia Coffee Co. at Cannon Beach and had some smooth latte, a mocha chai latte, and a scone. It was a good-sized place and seemed to have both visitors and local customers working while enjoying their drinks. I did enjoy the time there sitting in the chairs near the window when the same came out. From their website, they do have a few more 5 locations in Oregon. Insomnia was also open when some cafes closed early.
Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters www.sleepymonkcoffee.com
Many told us to “go to Sleepy Monk” for coffee, but sadly the day we stopped by they were closed. We did get to have via our hotel in pods provided to us. It was tasty, but you have to love to try it, I can just imagine the smooth taste in recently ground beans. I guess this is another reason to return to Cannon Beach one day. This cafe serves organic brews and pastries and they have a cute bungalow with Adirondack chairs out front.
How’s the Beach at Cannon Beach?
Cannon Beach’s beach is great with a long strip of nice sand. Many people take long strolls along the shore. At the beach, you will see the famous Haystack Rock and the abutting tidal pools that many investigate and explore when the tide is low. Besides starfish and crustaceans, we saw various green-colored anemones. I had never seen them before, but what I was told was that their little green tentacles would wrap themselves around your finger if you tried to feel them. The anemones are similar to jellyfish and use these tentacles to sting and retrieve their prey. Reportedly though, the tentacles do have neurotoxins so you may not want to touch them.
Haystack Rock is a 235-foot-tall rock on the beach. Many birds call the sharp rising cliffs as their home, including Puffins that seem to make the right side of the rock their home part of the year. At one point we even saw 2 eagles that came by to check out the rock for their dinner. You may be able to tell when an eagle comes by since the other birds try to hide, hide their chicks, or fly away to avoid being prey for the eagles.
Learn About The Cannon Beach Tides and Ecosystem
While we could easily see Haystack Rock when we arrived at our resort, we waited until the low tide the next morning to be able to go there during the Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) (www.cannonbeach.org). HRAP is a program that provides knowledgeable volunteers at Haystack Rock from mid-February through October during low tide (generally 7 am to 10 am). These volunteers were wearing bright red jackets and they marked off areas to help protect the wildlife and mark where visitors can walk safely without impacting the tidal pools.
One volunteer also provided us with a pair of binoculars to use so we could look at the birds high up on the rock, especially the puffins. If you know you are coming and want to see the puffins, eagles, etc. close up you may want to bring a pair of binoculars. It was a bit gray and misty while we were there, but many people came despite the weather to see these wonderful tidal pools and “the rock”.
I know I asked the volunteers “What is that” quite a bit. They didn’t mind and were wonderfully helpful and many worked there for several years and were very dedicated to their mission. I wouldn’t have known about where the puffins usually nest or about the neurotoxins if they weren’t there. Remember when you are there, this is nature so you must watch the tides change, the water does rise and a rogue wave could come up higher than you expect, but like anything in or near water be careful, especially if you have small children or can’t swim. You will see my comments below about the weather and tidal charts (many places seem to have these tide charts for their towns).
Tide Charts Cannon Beach Oregon
The Oregon coast is known for some huge shifts in low and high tides. This makes it truly important to pay attention to the tide charts in Cannon Beach, Oregon. Especially in terms of going out to see Haystack Rock up close and personal with the HRAP volunteers there to answer your questions. They are out there during low tide and are a wealth of knowledge.
How to stay safe tide pooling in Cannon Beach?
Here are some general guidelines to enhance your tide-pooling, beachcombing, and clamming experiences, while also ensuring your safety:
- Timing Your Activities: Plan your outings during a 4-hour window that spans from about 2 hours before low tide to 2 hours after low tide. This timing offers the best conditions for exploring tide pools and the shoreline.
- Safety First: Always stay vigilant about your surroundings, especially on our coved beaches. Sneaker waves and logs can catch you off guard, posing significant hazards. Additionally, be cautious near bluffs, as tides can rise rapidly, potentially trapping you in dangerous situations.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy your beach activities safely and make the most of your coastal adventures.
Experiences in Cannon Beach, Oregon
Other Places to Visit while in Cannon Beach
Whether you are on a romantic getaway from Portland to Cannon Beach, Oregon or you are looking from some adventure. There is a few places to visit in the area that you cannot miss. The number one thing to do is visit the beach and Haystack Rock, but you could use this location to stay and check out nearby Ecola State Park.
Ecola State Park
If you like great stunning views of the cliffs and coast and stunning Sitka spruce trees, Ecola State Park is a great place to visit and is located between the towns of Cannon Beach and Seaside. The cost is only $5 for a day pass/permit (there is no camping at Ecola). Notably, you can bring a dog on your walks and hikes, but they must be on a leash. There is the Tillamook Lighthouse off the coast on a small island that may be of interest, but a boat is needed to get to the island.
The time we visited Ecola the weather was not cooperating and it rained pretty hard, but some ventured out to see the beach. Ecola State Park was also used for the movies like the Goonies, Point Break (it sure was blustery that day and made me think of some scenes from the movie), and Kindergarten Cop. Also, driving down the windy roads with thickly settled mossy trees, made me think of Twilight that was also filmed here. The trees in the park really blocked the wind and rain, and moments of the sun peaking through lit up the trees with a nice shine.
(Did you know that the word Ecola means “whale” in Native American language?)
Hug Point in the Hug Point State Recreation Site
Hug Point is only about 5 miles south of Cannon Beach driving south on Oregon Coast Highway 101. It is a non-descript right turn off the road to get to the parking area. Hug Point has a beach, but also a cliff that jets out into the water that you can get around depending on the tide. Thus you have to “hug” the coast to go explore it, the caves carved into the sandstone cliffs, and the small seasonal waterfall nearby. It was raining a bit and the stairs down to the sandy beach were broken, but I was able to walk down via the rocks nearby. While the weather wasn’t the best, a few folks including myself walked out to explore. Make sure to check the tide schedule, since as the state says, “When in Doubt Don’t Go Out”. Notably, it’s a day-use area and there is no cost.
Visit Art Galleries
While I didn’t get to go to many art galleries, it is a popular cultural factor in Cannon Beach and according to the town, it is named one of America’s 100 Best Art Towns. Thus, if art is of interest you may want to visit the 10+ galleries. One that intrigues me is the Icefire Glassworks, a working glass-blowing studio in Midtown Cannon Beach. I hope I make it back one day to see more of it. Who knew that you could find so many art galleries on your trip from Portland to Cannon Beach, Oregon.
Hikes Near Cannon Beach
Another popular item is to hike the woods, cliff heads, or beaches as you visit the area. Plus I know this also helps me stay in shape from all the great food.
Near Cannon Beach, there are several captivating hikes catering to various skill levels and interests:
- Ecola State Park Loop: This 2.5-mile loop trail offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Haystack Rock. The trail meanders through a lush coastal forest, providing ample opportunities to spot wildlife, including seabirds and, occasionally, migrating whales. The park’s proximity to the coastline makes it an excellent choice for both leisurely hikes and photography enthusiasts.
- Cape Falcon Trail: For a more rigorous adventure, the 4.8-mile round-trip Cape Falcon Trail in Oswald West State Park is ideal. The trail navigates through a dense, moss-draped forest of Sitka spruce and ferns before emerging onto a cliffside with sweeping views of the ocean and Neahkahnie Mountain. The diverse ecosystems along this trail offer a rich experience of Oregon’s coastal wilderness.
- Short Sand Beach hike in Oswald West State Park. A short .8 mile hike from the road takes you to Short Sand Beach. This trail takes you through old growth forests and is beautiful. For a short rewarding hike definitely check out this place close by to Cannon Beach.
- Hug Point Trail: A shorter but equally enchanting hike, the Hug Point Trail spans just 0.5 miles. Accessible only during low tide, this trail leads to a secluded beach adorned with a picturesque waterfall and sea caves. The trail also features the remnants of a historic stagecoach road carved into the cliffside, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your beachside exploration.
Camping Cannon Beach Oregon
Camping near Cannon Beach, Oregon, offers a diverse range of experiences, from state parks with scenic vistas to private campgrounds nestled close to the beach. Nehalem Bay State Park and Cape Lookout State Park are excellent options for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and convenience. Nehalem Bay, just 13 miles south, features over 265 campsites with amenities like restrooms, showers, and yurts, perfect for family outings or extended stays. Cape Lookout, known for its cliffside views and hiking trails, offers tent and RV spots, as well as cozy yurts and cabins.
For a more intimate experience, Sea Ranch RV Park & Stables and Wrights for Camping in Cannon Beach provide easy access to the town’s attractions and the beach. Sea Ranch is ideal for RV travelers, while Wrights caters to tent campers seeking a rustic escape. While direct beach camping is prohibited in Cannon Beach, nearby Tillamook State Forest and the Oregon Coast National Forest offer dispersed camping opportunities for the adventurous.
Whether hiking in Ecola State Park, exploring tide pools at Haystack Rock, or strolling along the sandy beaches, camping near Cannon Beach provides a rich, immersive experience in Oregon’s coastal beauty. Prepare for unpredictable weather and ensure you follow local guidelines for a safe and enjoyable stay.
Cannon Beach and Oregon Weather
As was the case in Astoria, OR what can I say, the weather in the Pacific Northwest is certainly fickle and can change a lot. One minute it can rain or mist, the next minute bright and sunny. I visited just before the summer season, so I doadvise you to bring layers of clothes since it can change any time during the day. Also, you may want to bring a raincoat or at least an umbrella. Sometimes it was just a light mist, but then could change when the wind blew into town. Either way, it was an enjoyable time. Many of the locals say you can tell if it’s a tourist since they have an umbrella.
It seemsmany just use a hooded jacket and baseball cap or some type of brimmed hat to keep the drizzle off your face. At one beach we did see some tourists get their umbrellas broken by a sudden gust of wind. In the end, the misty, rainy weather didn’t stop folks from strolling the beaches, the tidal pools, or seeing a waterfall. Actually walking in some of the thick forests the trees seemed to block the wind and the rain.
Tide Charts Cannon Beach Oregon
While the weather is important in Cannon Beach an important factor is the tide if you want to explore around Haystack and its tidal pools it is good to know when low tide and high tide are, so you can go out to explore these areas.
Is It Worth The Trip From Portland to Cannon Beach,Oregon? And How Long Should You Visit
Cannon Beach is a wonderful small town and I would stay at least 2-3 days depending on what you’d like to see and do while you are there. It also has a relaxing vibe, so if you want to just sit back and rest a bit, this is a great town to do it in, with great food, coffee, hikes, and of course the beach and Haystack Rock. It’s not too far from Portland or from other cute Oregon coastal towns and State/National Parks, and a great jumping-off spot. This was one of our major stops for our journey on Oregon’s Coastal Highway and Cannon Beach is a definite must-visit when you are visiting Oregon’s Coastal Coast.If you can only visit one place on the Oregon Coast, I highly recommend a trip from Portland to Cannon Beach, Oregon. Enjoy the Journey!
After you seaside getaway head to a quirky and unique place to visit in Oregon, by taking a road trip from Cannon Beach to Astoria, Oregon.
How to get from Cannon Beach to Astoria
To travel from Cannon Beach to Astoria, head north on US-101, a scenic coastal highway that winds through lush forests and offers stunning ocean views. The drive is approximately 26 miles and typically takes around 45 minutes. Along the way, you can explore picturesque seaside towns like Seaside and Gearhart, and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Pacific coastline. As you approach Astoria, the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge comes into view, signaling your arrival at the historic city by the Columbia River.
Map of Cannon Beach: Where to stay
Pin This For Later For Your Portland To Cannon Beach, Oregon Getaway
Travels of Sarah Fay
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June 16, 2024
Coastal Oregon seems so stunning and interesting. Thanks for the guide!