Great shopping and an arts scene, as well as Haystack Rock, distinguish this Oregon Coast town.
Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, Oregon, stands sentinel over the beach.
Sights and Events
Cannon Beach History Center and Museum
Visit the restored cannon that gave the town its name, or investigate historic cottages and lovely gardens on the annual Cottage & Garden Tour, Sept. 10 and 11 this year.
The theater, which resides in a building that once housed the town’s roller rink, presents comedic, musical, and thrilling productions throughout the year.
The north coast hosts a plethora of cool, supportive day camps, surf weekenders, and classes targeted to beginners, especially (but not exclusively) women.
Plan ahead to celebrate rainy-season creativity with musical performances, a fashion show (with rain gear), and an art auction during the annual fest, held the first weekend in November each year at various locations.
Joy is inspired by the shop Once Upon a Breeze.
Where to Shop in Cannon Beach
Emerging artists and Pacific Northwest favorites show whimsical creations at this intimate, mural-bedecked gallery brimming with paintings and sculptures of primordial creatures.
Ancient coins, shipwreck bottles, a trove of sea glass, and other antiquities from lost civilizations are transformed into jewelry and conversation pieces.
Home decor here features locally crafted works such as an exquisite stained glass panel and night-lights made from Japanese glass floats. 1287 S. Hemlock St.
The oldest kite shop on the Oregon Coast shows its wares in a cute cottage storefront. Staffers also advise on techniques and mend broken kites.
Public Coast Brewing Co. honors local beach culture with beer.
Where to Eat Near Cannon Beach
Early risers are treated to giant Danish, bear claws, and savory quiches. Take home Haystack cookies or bread, two specialties shaped like the area’s popular sight.
Cannon Beach Hardware and Public House
Known informally as the “Screw and Brew,” this pub adjoining a hardware store serves two needs: tastes and tools. Fortunately, dishes such as halibut sandwiches and seared ahi salad need no fixing.
This locally beloved brewpub serves a dozen craft beers, the majority made within range of the handsome dining room. Dishes include locally sourced fish-and-chips, homemade sausages, and many gluten-free options.
The good times roll at this cozy restaurant featuring a separate bar and live music. The chef’s New Orleans roots shine in sprightly versions of classics such as crawfish étouffée, vegetable-packed gumbo z’herbes, and seafood jambalaya with Northwest crab.
Outdoor Fun Around Cannon Beach
Get the best views of Terrible Tilly, a decommissioned lighthouse built on a rock over a mile out to sea, at this park amid the cliffs north of town, off Ecola Park Road. Portions of the route walked by Captain Clark wind through a Sitka spruce forest and along nine miles of coastline.
One of few protected Marine Gardens on the Oregon Coast, this 235- foot basalt sea stack is among the best-known landmarks in the state. Interpretive specialists in red clothing (volunteers with the Haystack Rock Awareness Program) conduct tours at low tide and help visitors spot nesting marine birds. Public parking at Gower Avenue and Hemlock Street.
Hug Point State Recreation Site
Discover a sheltered cove beach five miles south of town. At low tide, walk north to see a seasonal hidden waterfall and trace the tracks of the old stagecoach road that “hugs” the point. Keep an eye on the tide to avoid getting stranded. Beach access road off Highway 101.
This article was first published in September 2016. Some facts may have aged gracelessly. Please call ahead to verify information.