Cannon Beach is one of the most popular on the Northern Oregon Coast, and for good reason. The famous Haystack Rock on the beach towers at 235-feet tall, providing a home to birds, sea lions and sea creatures in the marine garden below, along with ample photo opportunities for beachgoers. Nearby, you’ll find access to great hiking at Ecola State Park and Oswald State Park, not to mention the chance to stroll about downtown tucking in and out of art galleries, retail shops and two can’t-miss nostalgic candy shops.
With so much to explore within the town of less than 2,000 people, it’s best to stay for the weekend or a few days, tucking in for a cozy night’s sleep by the sea and waking up choosing a great spot for a delicious meal paired with a refreshing beer or well-crafted cocktail.
Where to Stay
Booking a room at Surfsand Resort puts you right on the beach, with incredible views of the crashing waves and Haystack Rock. Guest rooms are well-equipped with memory foam beds, fireplaces and soaking tubs for a good night’s rest. The pet-friendly resort has direct beach access, along with a pool and sauna and complimentary bikes for cruising the beach. Don’t miss out on all of the activities offered, including a community bonfire with a variety of s’mores fixings, Saturday ice cream socials, weenie roasts and freshly baked cookies as soon as you check in. When it’s time for dinner, head to Wayfarer across the street or order in-room dining. You can even order drinks to-go, perfect for a beach walk or soaking up the sunset.
The beautiful Inn at Cannon Beach is located on the south end of Cannon Beach where you’re almost guaranteed to spot the town’s resident bunny and elk populations. It’s not quite beachfront, but it’s a quick two-block walk. The exterior of the buildings brings a cabin-vibe to the beach, with a beautifully landscaped, grassy courtyard in the center. Stay in cozy rooms with fireplaces and giant jetted tubs, bring the pups along and grab complimentary breakfast before you head out for a day of exploring.
You’ll find beachfront rooms, gas fireplaces and on-site dining at the cozy-meets-modern Stephanie Inn. Guests have easy beach access, complimentary nightcaps every evening, the option to make use of beach cruisers and cookies and scones in the lobby 24/7. You’ll even find oceanfront rooms with outdoor firepits.
Where to Sip
Public Coast Brewing at the northern end of town is the place to go for plenty of outdoor seating, especially if you have dogs in tow. You’ll find a variety of ales on tap including the Coconut Brown Ale and NW Honey Red Ale that’s brewed with honey from the Public Coast Farm. The 40-acre culinary farm outside of town is also where the brewery sources hops, along with fruits and veggies used at the brewpub, as well as by chefs at Stephanie Inn. Grab a pretzel sprinkled with Oregon coast-harvested sea salt from Jacobsen Salt Co. or dig into the chicken salad topped with IPA-brined chicken and candied beer nuts.
Operated by Surfsand Resort, Wayfarer offers beachfront patio dining, a large dining room and a cozy lounge for breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the whiskey lounge, you’ll find a wide selection of Northwest-made spirits, local beers and a wine list with a heavy focus on Oregon and Washington wines. Grab a bottle of wine to pair with Mary’s Chicken or experience the Dungeness Crab Mac & Cheese made with Tillamook white cheddar. Planning to dine for breakfast? The Cinnamon Roll French Toast with Oregon hazelnuts and marionberry butter is available in the dining room or can be delivered to your room through room service.
With four locations, Pelican Brewing is a staple along the Oregon Coast. Head to this brewpub for patio seating or cozy indoor booth dining, with an open kitchen concept and a modern aesthetic. You’ll find all of the Pelican staples on tap such as their Kiwanda Cream Ale and Beak Breaker IPA. Pair your brew with pub staples like the Backyard BBQ Burger or Smoked Tri-Tip Flatbread.
Pilot House Distilling hails from nearby Astoria, but its Cannon Beach tasting room offers travelers the opportunity to do a tasting or grab a mini cocktail here as well. Don’t miss trying the distillery’s Painted Lady Gin, or grab their canned cocktails – Paloma and Margarita – for a great option on-the-go.
