Cannon Beach Things to Do 2025: Complete Local Guide
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Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to a favorite getaway spot, this local Cannon Beach guide will help you discover the best this enchanting coastal town has to offer – from hidden viewpoints and local dining favorites to accommodation options that perfectly suit your style and budget.
As locals who've explored every tide pool and tried every restaurant, we're sharing our insider secrets to help you experience Cannon Beach like a local.
Haystack Rock: Cannon Beach's Natural Wonder
Haystack Rock stands 235 feet tall and is accessible during low tide
Rising 235 feet from the shoreline, Haystack Rock is more than just a stunning landmark – it's a protected marine garden and bird sanctuary that offers visitors a glimpse into Oregon's rich coastal ecosystem. This monolithic sea stack was formed millions of years ago by lava flows and has become the defining image of Cannon Beach and a centerpiece of any Cannon Beach Oregon guide.
Exploring Tide Pools at Haystack Rock
During low tide, Haystack Rock reveals a fascinating intertidal ecosystem teeming with life. The tide pools surrounding the base of the rock are home to colorful sea stars, anemones, crabs, and numerous other marine creatures. The best time to explore these natural aquariums is 1-2 hours before low tide. Check local tide tables before your visit to plan accordingly.
Discover Haystack Rock with Local Experts
The Haystack Rock Awareness Program offers free educational programs during summer months. Their volunteer interpreters are on-site to answer questions and help you spot nesting puffins (April through July).
Photography Tips for Haystack Rock
Capturing the perfect shot of Haystack Rock is on every visitor's wish list. For the most dramatic lighting, plan your photography session during golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset). The rock is beautifully silhouetted against the colorful sky during sunset, while morning light offers clearer visibility of details and fewer crowds.
Best Viewpoints:
- Ecola State Park (northern view)
- Tolovana Beach (southern perspective)
- Directly in front on the main beach access
- From Gower Street at low tide
Seasonal Highlights:
- Spring: Puffin nesting season
- Summer: Clearest skies and warmest temperatures
- Fall: Dramatic storm clouds and fewer crowds
- Winter: Powerful waves and moody atmosphere
Where to Eat in Cannon Beach: Local Dining Favorites
Cannon Beach's dining scene offers everything from casual beach fare to fine dining experiences, with an emphasis on fresh, local seafood and Pacific Northwest ingredients. Here are some local favorites that deserve a spot in any Cannon Beach Oregon guide:
Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge
Price Range: $$$
Offering stunning views of Haystack Rock, the Wayfarer serves up classic Pacific Northwest cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Their Dungeness crab cakes and locally-sourced oysters are must-try specialties.
Local Tip: Request a window table when making reservations for unparalleled sunset views while dining.
Pelican Brewing Company
Price Range: $$
This beachfront brewpub offers craft beers paired with elevated pub fare. Their beer-battered fish and chips using local lingcod is a perennial favorite, and the ocean-view patio makes for perfect al fresco dining.
Standout Dish: Tsunami Stout Clam Chowder served in a bread bowl
Ecola Seafoods Restaurant & Market
Price Range: $$
A true local institution, this family-owned market and restaurant offers some of the freshest seafood in town. The owners operate their own fishing vessel, ensuring peak freshness and quality. Their smoked salmon is legendary.
Local Tip: Take some of their house-smoked salmon to go for beach picnics!
Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters
Price Range: $
Start your day with organic, fair-trade coffee roasted in-house at this beloved local café. Their freshly baked pastries and breakfast sandwiches make it a perfect morning stop before beach adventures.
Must Try: Monk's Mocha and a cranberry orange scone
Tom's Fish & Chips
Price Range: $
For a casual, budget-friendly meal, Tom's offers classic beach fare done right. Their fish and chips are consistently rated among the best on the Oregon coast, and the casual atmosphere is perfect for families.
Local Favorite: Halibut fish and chips with extra tartar sauce
Dining Insider Tip
Many Cannon Beach restaurants close early during the off-season (October-May), sometimes as early as 8pm. Always check current hours and consider making reservations during summer months when the town is at its busiest.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options in Cannon Beach
Finding the perfect place to stay is essential for any Cannon Beach Oregon guide. The town offers accommodations for every preference and budget, from luxury oceanfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals tucked away in quiet neighborhoods.
Beachfront Hotels & Resorts
Surfsand Resort
Located just steps from Haystack Rock, this family-friendly resort offers modern rooms with spectacular ocean views, an indoor swimming pool, and complimentary beach cabanas during summer months.
Why Stay Here: The location can't be beat, and their Wayfarer Restaurant serves excellent meals with Haystack Rock views.
Price Range: $$$-$$$$
Stephanie Inn
For those seeking luxury and romance, this oceanfront boutique hotel offers an adults-only experience with gourmet dining, evening wine gatherings, and spa services. Each room features a fireplace and many have jacuzzi tubs.
Why Stay Here: Unparalleled luxury and service make this Cannon Beach's premier romantic getaway.
Price Range: $$$$
Tolovana Inn
Located at the south end of Cannon Beach near Tolovana Beach State Park, this oceanfront property offers studio, one and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, fireplaces, and private balconies.
Why Stay Here: More affordable than downtown options while still offering ocean views and beach access.
Price Range: $$-$$$
Vacation Rentals & Budget Options
Cannon Beach Vacation Rentals
For families or extended stays, vacation rentals offer more space and the comforts of home. Options range from oceanfront homes to cozy cottages within walking distance of downtown.
Why Choose This: Perfect for longer stays, families, or groups wanting privacy and home amenities like full kitchens.
Price Range: $$-$$$$
The Waves Motel
This budget-friendly option offers clean, comfortable rooms just a block from the beach and within walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants.
Why Stay Here: Affordable rates without sacrificing location – perfect for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring.
Price Range: $-$$
Plan Your Perfect Cannon Beach Getaway
Accommodations in Cannon Beach book quickly during summer months. We recommend reserving your stay 3-6 months in advance for peak season (June-September).
Insider Tips: Local Secrets for the Perfect Cannon Beach Visit
Every great Cannon Beach Oregon guide should include some insider knowledge. Here are local secrets and tips to help you experience Cannon Beach like a resident rather than a tourist:
Parking & Beach Access
Parking Hack: Downtown parking can be extremely limited during summer months. Arrive before 10am or after 3pm for the best chance at finding a spot. Alternatively, park at the Tolovana Beach State Park lot at the south end of town and take the free shuttle into downtown (summer only).
While the main beach access points get crowded, try these lesser-known entry points:
- Chisana Creek Access – Located at the north end of town, this access point offers a quieter beach experience.
- West Washington Street – A local favorite with fewer tourists and great views.
- Arcadia Beach – Just south of town, this state recreation site offers a beautiful beach with interesting rock formations.
Hidden Trails & Viewpoints
While Ecola State Park is justifiably famous, these lesser-known spots offer equally stunning views with smaller crowds:
- Crescent Beach Trail – A moderate 1.2-mile hike from Ecola State Park leads to a secluded beach rarely visited by tourists.
- Chapman Point – North of town, this viewpoint offers spectacular vistas of Bird Rocks and nesting colonies of common murres.
- Hug Point State Recreation Site – Just 5 minutes south of Cannon Beach, explore sea caves and a seasonal waterfall at low tide.
Pet-Friendly Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is exceptionally dog-friendly, but there are some guidelines to follow:
- Dogs must be leashed in town but can run off-leash on the beach if under voice control.
- Please keep dogs away from the protected marine garden areas around Haystack Rock.
- Many restaurants with outdoor seating welcome dogs, including Pelican Brewing and Public Coast Brewing.
- The Surfsand Resort offers special amenities for four-legged guests, including beach towels and treats.
Seasonal Events Worth Planning Around
| Event | When | What to Expect |
| Stormy Weather Arts Festival | First weekend in November | Gallery walks, artist demonstrations, and live music celebrating the dramatic fall weather |
| Sandcastle Contest | Mid-June | Professional and amateur sandcastle builders create amazing sculptures on the beach |
| Fourth of July Celebration | July 4th | Old-fashioned parade, beach bonfire, and fireworks over Haystack Rock |
| Spring Unveiling Arts Festival | First weekend in May | Galleries debut new work, artist demonstrations, and wine walks |
Best Sunset Spots
Cannon Beach is renowned for its spectacular sunsets. While any beach location offers great views, these spots are particularly magical:
- Ecola State Park's Sunset Point – Aptly named viewpoint offering elevated vistas of the coastline.
- Chapman Beach – Less crowded than the main beach with perfect Haystack Rock alignment.
- The Wayside – South of town with convenient parking and panoramic views.
- Public Coast Brewing patio – Enjoy craft beer while watching the sun go down.
“The best time to visit Cannon Beach is during shoulder seasons (May and September) when you'll find fewer crowds but still enjoy relatively good weather. The light for photography is spectacular, and you'll have more space to yourself on the beach.”
Beyond the Beach: Nearby Attractions
While Cannon Beach itself offers plenty to explore, the surrounding area is filled with natural wonders and charming towns worth visiting. No Cannon Beach Oregon guide would be complete without mentioning these nearby attractions:
Ecola State Park
Just north of town, this spectacular park offers hiking trails, viewpoints, and secluded beaches. The view from Ecola Point is one of Oregon's most photographed landscapes, featuring a panoramic vista of the coastline with Haystack Rock in the distance.
Don't Miss: The 2.5-mile Clatsop Loop Trail, which follows the historic Lewis and Clark route.
Oswald West State Park
Located 10 minutes south of Cannon Beach, this lush coastal forest offers excellent hiking trails leading to Short Sand Beach (locally known as “Shorty's”), a popular spot for surfers and beachcombers alike.
Insider Tip: Hike to the top of Cape Falcon for breathtaking views of the coastline.
Seaside
This family-friendly beach town just 15 minutes north offers a different coastal experience with its historic promenade, arcade, aquarium, and carnival atmosphere.
Perfect For: Families with children looking for more structured entertainment options.
Manzanita
Head 15 minutes south to discover this quieter beach town with a beautiful 7-mile stretch of sand, charming downtown, and access to Neahkahnie Mountain hiking trails.
Local Favorite: Bread and Ocean Bakery for morning pastries and sandwiches.
Planning Your Perfect Cannon Beach Getaway
Cannon Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and coastal elegance that keeps visitors returning year after year. Whether you're watching the sunset paint Haystack Rock in golden hues, exploring tide pools with curious children, or simply strolling through the art galleries and boutiques of downtown, this special place creates memories that last a lifetime.
Use this Cannon Beach Oregon guide to plan your visit, but leave room for spontaneous discoveries and unexpected adventures – sometimes the unplanned moments become the most treasured. From misty morning beach walks to starlit evening bonfires, Cannon Beach invites you to slow down, breathe the salt air, and connect with the timeless rhythm of the Pacific Ocean.
Start Planning Your Cannon Beach Adventure
For the most up-to-date information on events, tide tables, and seasonal activities, visit the official Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce website.
When is the best time to visit Cannon Beach?
The summer months (June-August) offer the warmest temperatures and lowest rainfall, but also the largest crowds. For a balance of good weather and fewer tourists, consider visiting during the “shoulder seasons” of May and September. Winter visits (November-February) provide a completely different experience with dramatic storms, empty beaches, and lower accommodation rates.
How do I access Haystack Rock?
Haystack Rock is accessible from the main beach in Cannon Beach. The most direct access is via the Gower Street beach entrance in downtown. You can walk right up to the rock during low tide, but always check tide tables and be aware of when the tide is coming back in to avoid being stranded.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations in Cannon Beach?
Yes, many Cannon Beach accommodations welcome pets, including Surfsand Resort, Tolovana Inn, and numerous vacation rentals. Always check pet policies and any additional fees when booking. The beach itself is very pet-friendly, allowing dogs off-leash if under voice control.
