A small coastal town on Oregon's northwestern shore, known for the 235-foot Haystack Rock formation and its long sandy beaches with tide pools.
Walk along Cannon Beach’s wide sandy shore, where the 235-foot Haystack Rock rises from the Pacific. This Oregon Coast village, named after a 19th-century shipwreck’s cannon, has a small-town feel. Its dramatic landscapes include tide pools around Haystack Rock, trails through old-growth forests in Ecola State Park, and views of sea stacks from cliffside lookouts. Between exploring, visit galleries that feature Pacific Northwest artists, attend the June sandcastle contest, or try chowder at seafood spots. The town keeps a relaxed pace with independent shops instead of chain stores, and it’s a 90-minute drive from Portland.
Haystack Rock and Coastal Landmarks
Haystack Rock stands tall at Cannon Beach’s shoreline, part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. During low tide, walk around its base to see purple sea stars, green anemones, and hermit crabs in shallow pools. From April to July, use binoculars to spot tufted puffins nesting on the rock’s upper cliffs. Three smaller rocks sit near Haystack, creating striking photo opportunities during golden hour. For unobstructed views of the coastline, visit Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site, where the flat expanse of sand stretches toward the rock’s silhouette.
Ecola State Park Trails and Views
Ecola State Park covers 9 miles of coastline with trails through dense forests and access to quiet beaches. The 2.5-mile Clatsop Loop Trail winds through Sitka spruce groves. It leads to a viewpoint from 1806, where Lewis and Clark’s team spotted a beached whale. A shorter path takes you to Indian Beach, a popular spot for surfers surrounded by steep cliffs. Winter brings powerful waves that crash against offshore rocks, drawing visitors to watch the surf from safe vantage points. The park is a 5-minute drive north of downtown, with a $5 fee per vehicle for day use.
Festivals and Community Events
Cannon Beach’s annual sandcastle contest in June attracts crowds to watch detailed sculptures made from sand and water. On July 4th, the Lawn Chair Brigade performs choreographed routines with folding chairs along Hemlock Street. In November, the Stormy Weather Arts Festival fills galleries with live demonstrations and exhibits inspired by the coast. Year-round, you can watch glassblowers create pieces at Icefire Glassworks or see a play at the Coaster Theatre, housed in a converted 1920s roller-skating rink.
Local Businesses and Food
Hemlock Street’s wooden-fronted shops sell handmade ceramics, glass art, and photography of the Oregon Coast. Bruce’s Candy Kitchen has produced saltwater taffy since 1963, with flavors ranging from huckleberry to espresso. The Lazy Susan Café serves breakfast dishes like omelets with Dungeness crab or smoked salmon, paired with fresh pastries. At Pelican Brewing’s brewpub, try IPAs alongside fish tacos made with locally caught rockfish. Many restaurants highlight ingredients from the region, such as wild mushrooms in pasta dishes or blackberry toppings on desserts.
Background and Visitor Tips
In 1806, William Clark visited the area to trade for whale blubber after a carcass washed ashore, a moment marked by landmarks in Ecola Park. The town’s name comes from a cannon that drifted onto the beach from the USS Shark wreck in 1846. A $1 shuttle connects Cannon Beach to Seaside, and the NorthWest POINT bus provides service to Portland. Accommodations include retro motor lodges and hotels with oceanfront fire pits. For fewer crowds and lower rates, plan a midweek trip in spring or fall when storms often highlight the coast’s rugged appeal.
