Things To Do
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is a small coastal city in northwest Oregon. It’s known for its long, sandy shore. Standing tall in the ocean, Haystack Rock is a seasonal haven for tufted puffins. On a headland to the north, trails in Ecola State Park offer sweeping views of the ocean, coves and a lighthouse. South is Arcadia Beach, with tide pools and a picnic area. Nearby Hug Point has sea caves. Boutiques and galleries dot downtown. Ecola State Park (Fee to Park in Parking Lot) Coaster Theater Art Galleries & Shopping City Park- Near the corner of Spruce & 2nd - Free movies in the Park on Fridays all summer Cannon Beach History Center
Ecola Point Viewpoint & Indian Beach - Not to be missed!
Ecola Point - 8 min drive, gorgeous old growth forest drive to get there. This is the main viewpoint and easily the most photographed. It offers postcard-perfect views of Haystack Rock, sea stacks, and the ridge of coastal mountains behind Cannon Beach. There’s a short, paved path from the parking area that’s accessible and ideal for quick visits or sunset watching. Restrooms, pay to park for the day in the lot. Indian Beach - 13 min drive, after the Ecola point view drive a little further to Indian Beach- one of the favorite sweeping views of the Oregon coast with a rock with a large hole. A little more off the beaten path, this secluded cove is a favorite among surfers and tidepoolers. The parking area is smaller, and the vibe is quieter—perfect for families looking to picnic, splash in the surf, or just take in the beauty. Restrooms, pay to park for the day in the lot.
Oswald West State Park (Multiple Hikes, Short Sand Beach aka shorty's) is Favorite short hike
Nicknamed “Shorty’s” by locals, the beach is just a half-mile walk through the old-growth forest and ferns. One of our favorite walks near Cannon Beach is a great surf spot! Short Sands Beach trail- a short 1/2 mile out-and-back trail leads you through a rainforest along Short Sands Creek. Cape Falcon Trail- Moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back trail you'll hike through a dense salal understory to the tip of Cape Falcon for a rewarding view. South Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain Trail- this steep 1.3-mile out-and-back trail offers incredible views of the Nehalem Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Portland
Portland, Oregon’s largest city, sits on the Columbia and Willamette rivers, in the shadow of snow-capped Mount Hood. It’s known for its parks, bridges and bicycle paths, as well as for its eco-friendliness and its microbreweries and coffeehouses. Portland is known for its creative energy, delicious food, craft coffee, and beautiful green spaces. Whether you're exploring the various quirky neighborhoods, wandering through Forest Park, or grabbing a bite at a food cart pod, there’s plenty to enjoy during your visit. let us know if you want specific recs! If you are looking for places to stay while in Portland, here are a few recommended hotels: - Kimpton River Place: www.riverplacehotel.com (Luxury; next to the river front) - McMenamins Kennedy School: www.mcmenamins.com/kennedy-school (funky Portland Vibes) - Northwest Portland Hostel: www.nwportlandhostel.com (Cheap-ish and downtown) - Hotel Zags: www.thehotelzags.com (Modern vibe with bike rentals)
Astoria
Astoria, the most northern coastal city in Oregon, is the town where Lewis and Clark first saw the Pacific Ocean after coming down the Columbia River. Also home to the Goonies House! Fort Stevens State Park Fort Clatsop National Memorial - reconstructed winter encampment of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. Astoria Riverwalk Oregon Film Museum Columbia River Maritime Museum Astoria Column Food - Bowpicker Fish and Chips- Converted, stationary boat with a walk-up window selling beer-battered albacore tuna fish n' chips. Delicious, not to be missed if open. 11 am- 4 pm Wed- Sat Fort George Brewery - Spacious brewpub serving wood-fired pizza & pub fare in a converted 1920s auto repair shop, 11 am- 10 pm
Seaside
Seaside Aquarium Necanicum Estuary - a popular spot for birdwatching, clamming, and crabbing. The Prom - Built in 1920, the Prom stretches 1.5 miles from the 12th Ave. to Avenue U. Ride the Carousel, Bumper Cars, Miniature Golf
Tillamook
Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad - March to Sept, take a ride aboard a historic train between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach. Tillamook Cheese Factory- Talke a self-guided tour through the creamery and stop by their food court to fill up on ice cream and cheesy dishes. Three Cape Scenic Loop- 40 mile loop takes you through Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda. Octopus Tree - the candelabra-shaped Sitka Spruce believed to be an Indian burial tree, stands in the Cape Meares State Park Cape Meares Lighthouse - stop and take a tour of the shortest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast Munson Creek Falls- Just seven miles south of Tillamook, Munson Creek Falls is one of Oregon's Largest falls. Garibaldi Museum - Learn about 18th-century sailing history.
Oregon Coast Road Trip
We are very excited to get married at Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock and stunning vistas like Ecola Point and the view south down the coast from Neahkahnie mountain but the entire Oregon Coast is absolutely beautiful and I highly recommend a trip down the coast especially to the southern coast if you have time! I haven't done this particular tour but I highly recommend Guide Along - its an audio tour along the notable points on the oregon coast and they have many other options - it's great for national parks! Natural Bridges - Brookings Yachats Ocean Road State Natural Site Cape Kiwanda - Amazing Views with Sand Dunes high above the ocean Oswald West State Park Thor's Well Pistol River - Gold Beach Secret Beach - Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor Ecola State Park Neahkahnie Viewpoint Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint & Depoe Bay- Whales
Saddle Mountain Hike - Steep Long Hike
Saddle Mountain State Natural Area is a cherished hike for its rare wildflowers and stunning viewpoint at the 3,288-foot summit with views on a clear day of Mt.Hood, Helens, Adams, Rainier and Jefferson. You'll gain 1600 feet in elevation as you travel along the 2.5 mile out-and-back trail, so be sure to wear proper footwear.
Coffee Favorites in Cannon Beach
Mileage is from the - The Retreat at Cannon Beach - Reception Venue #1 .2 miles - Cannon Beach Chocolate Cafe- Specialty Coffee, Pastry, Cookies, and plenty of seating #2 .1 miles- Elk Creek Coffee - a few specialty biscuits, limited seating #3 2.6 miles- Sea Level Bakery + Coffee - Specialty coffee, pastry, and plenty of seating.
Breakfast and Brunch Favorites in Cannon Beach or Nearby towns
Lazy Susan Cafe - 4 min drive, .7 miles, in Cannon Beach - Cash Only. Locally sourced dishes like Eggs Benedict, omelets, and seasonal waffles, including popular items, such as marionberry scones. Arrive early to get a table. 126 N Hemlock St. Opens 8 am-2:30 pm Osbrey Cafe - Seaside, 11 mins drive up the coast, Scratch-made, praised for quality, French toast, avocado toast, breakfast burritos, Huevos rancheros, and arepas, shrimp rolls. Crowded- arrive early. 2281 Beach Dr #5117, Seaside, Opens 8 am-2 pm Wanda's Cafe + Bakery - Nehalam, Drive down the coast 22 mins. Scratchmade comfort food, artisan breads, and baked goods. Delicious for breakfast or lunch. Worth the drive. 12880 H Street, opens at 8 am - 2 pm. Arrive early to get a table. Pig N' Pancake- 4 min drive, .7 miles in Cannon Beach, 223 S Hemlock St, Opens 7 am - 3 pm
Casual Dinner or Lunch Recommendations
Ecola Seafoods $$ Public Coast Brewing Company $$ Seasons Cafe - Casual bistro, some live music events $$ Warren House Pub $$ Bill's Tavern & Brewhouse $-$$ Pelican Brewing Company - Cannon Beach $$ Pizza a'fetta $$ Crepe Neptune $
Chef inspired Restaurants- $$$ Reservations Recommended ASAP- they book up quickly.
Bistro - Masterful flavors with little fuss, https://www.thebistrocannonbeach.com/, 263 N Hemlock, Call for Reservations - 503-436-2661 Anna's Table - sophisticated cuisine locally sourced, https://www.annastablecb.com/about, 188 S. Hemlock, Reservations through link above. Stephanie Inn Dining Room - Farm-to-table menu, https://stephanieinn.com/dining/2740 Pacific Ave, Reservations through link above.
Bruce's Candy Kitchen
Gaze into the workshop where the team at Bruce's have created salt-water taffy since 1963. Other house-made confections include chocolate-dipped strawberries and more. Fourth generation family-owned and operated candy store, making homemade salt water taffy, chocolates, caramels, corns, hard candies, fudge, brittles, and much, much more. 10 am -7 pm
Public Coast Brewing Co
Offering a rotating selection of beers, this brewpub also serves a variety of comfort food, including a popular fish and chips dish. 12 - 9 pm
Ecola Seafood Restaurant & Market/Cannon Beach Seafood
Enjoy boat-to-table seafood from our downtown rooftop with ocean views, an outdoor fire feature, a spacious deck, and private dining. 10 am - 8 pm
Cannon Beach Bakery
Full Service Bakery with a variety of Handcrafted Freshly Baked Doughnuts, Danish, Artisan & Sweet Breads, Pies, Birthday Cakes and much, much more!!! Wednesday - Monday Open at 7:00 am • Closed Tuesday
Cannon Beach Chocolate Cafe
One of our favorites - Casual chocolate shop with in-house truffles and pastries, plus espresso drinks and milkshakes. 10 am -5 pm
Sea Level Bakery + Coffee
Hip, cozy cafe offering single-origin coffee, espresso & scratch-made baked goods, plus a patio. 7 am - 2 pm most days, please check.
Kith & Keel Coffee (Sleepy Monk Coffee old location)
They still serve Sleepy Monk Coffee, offering drip coffee, espresso drinks, tea, hot chocolate, and an assortment of pastries baked fresh daily, 8 am-3 pm most days. Please check.