Interesting Activities in Cannon Beach

There are several adorable coastal communities along the Oregon Coast, but Cannon Beach is unquestionably one of the most quaint and gorgeous. renowned for the famous Haystack Rock, which is located in the seas near offshore and provides a breathtaking setting for those breathtaking sunsets on the West Coast.

Fun Fact: The Goonies, a favorite from the 1980s, does feature Haystack Rock.

By definition, Cannon Beach is a tourist town, but a charming one, if we may use that term ourselves! Every home and structure has the traditional cedar shingle appearance, exuding a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Cannon Beach is a fantastic starting place for a variety of experiences because it is close to town and has a few lovely surf beaches and wooded hiking paths.

The Best Activities In Cannon Beach

These are our top suggestions if you're searching for the greatest activities in Cannon Beach.

1. Build A Bonfire By Haystack Rock

Unless otherwise specified, building a campfire on Cannon Beach is both possible and permitted. One Oregon Coast experience you won't soon forget is watching the sun set as a bonfire keeps you warm. Furthermore, the vista doesn't get much better with the famous Haystack Rock in the background.

How to accomplish it on your own: Pick up a bundle of wood from one of the local supermarkets; ours cost $7 at Mariner Market. Make careful to verify the timing of sunset and high tide. Building your fire in an area where it will be extinguished by the tide is absolutely not something you want to do!

For an added pleasure, bring roasting sticks and s'more ingredients. Additionally, keep in mind that it can get windy and cold on the beach in the late evening, so bring blankets and additional clothing.

2. Spot Starfish (& Other Critters) In The Tide Pools

Anemones, starfish, and other marine life abound along this stretch of the Oregon coast. Getting to the beach at low tide is the best way to see them. Little ponds may be seen at your feet as you make your way out near Haystack Rock.

To avoid upsetting the little creatures in these ponds, take extreme care where you walk. At low tide, volunteers are occasionally there to assist in making sure visitors walk cautiously and to respond to some simple inquiries.

3. Spend An Afternoon At Arcadia Beach

Arcadia Beach, another gorgeous stretch of the Oregon Coast, is only a few minutes south of town if you simply can't get enough of the beach and want a change of scenery. Bring chairs and a blanket for a day in the sun, or stop for a short look.

4. Enjoy A Morning Coffee

In tiny towns, we have a knack for discovering adorable coffee shops. Does anybody else? Fortunately, Cannon Beach has a number of charming eateries to pick from. Here are a few of our top picks:

Sleepy Monk: Although there are always huge lines at this organic coffee roaster, the specialty coffee concoctions and freshly baked pastries are well worth the wait. We adore their savory scones, morning muffins, and lemon poppy seed layer cake.
Insomnia Coffee: This charming coffee establishment is a treasure located very next to the beach. This is an excellent choice because it has a pleasant ambiance, delicious coffee, and pastries.

5. Drive Up To Seaside

Although Seaside is only ten to fifteen minutes' drive north of Cannon Beach, the atmosphere is very different. Compared to its tiny neighbor to the south, Seaside is far more developed, less "curated," has multi-story resorts, and has a far higher number of permanent inhabitants.

Activities In Seaside

• stroll along the promenade (the pedestrian zone)

• Try Grizzly Tuna's unusual take on fish and chips, where the dish is cooked with—you guessed it!—tuna!

• Visit Sea Star Gelato to indulge your sweet craving; we really like the cheesecake flavor combined with berry gelato.

• stroll along the shore.

• Our honest assessment: While some people adore Seaside, we weren't too impressed—Cannon Beach was much more our thing! Take a look and let us know what you think!

Read Also: Charming Oregon Coast Towns

6. Explore Ecola State Park

Any vacation to Cannon Beach must include a visit to Ecola State Park, which is only a few minutes north of town. On any Oregon Coast itinerary, Ecola State Park is a must-see because of its lush woods, granite formations right offshore, and rocky, untamed beaches.

There are several routes that are densely wooded to keep you occupied if you enjoy hiking. There are two points of view, though, that are definitely worth seeing if you would rather make less effort.

The first place you'll visit is Ecola Point, which offers breathtaking views. Indian Beach, a well-liked surfing location nestled in a remote forest, is another 1.5-mile drive away. A path connects the two sites if you wish to "earn" your views.

7. Have Yourself A Fish N’ Chips Picnic On The Beach

Eating a fresh catch while observing the waves crashing into the shore is the epitome of the "Oregon Coast." Since Cannon Beach doesn't have any restaurants by the sea, we suggest ordering takeout from one of the local eateries and walking the short distance to the beach with folding chairs and a blanket. Bring your own beverages and food for the ideal picnic with an unparalleled setting.