Cannon Beach, Oregon: The Best Coastal City

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Advisor - Kayleigh Ethridge
Curated By

Kayleigh Ethridge

  • Oregon

  • USA

  • Slow Travel

  • Weekend Getaways

  • Beaches

  • Coastal

Advisor - Cannon Beach, Oregon: The Best Coastal City
Curator’s statement

Cannon Beach has always felt like a place where I could breathe a little deeper and slow down. Walking along the shoreline with Haystack Rock in view never fails to leave me in awe. Between the stunning sunsets, cozy cafés, and charming art galleries, every visit feels like coming back to somewhere I belong. Cannon Beach is a quintessential Oregon Coast town where rugged cliffs meet charming streets lined with galleries, cafés, and local shops.

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Where to stay in Cannon Beach

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Things to do in Cannon Beach

Scenic view of Haystack Rock

Shop at Bruce’s Candy Kitchen

This Cannon Beach classic has been making handmade sweets since 1963. I love stopping in for fresh saltwater taffy and watching them pull and wrap it right in the shop window.

Browse B Boutique

B Boutique is my favorite spot for stylish coastal-inspired clothing and accessories. It’s the perfect place to find a wearable reminder of the beach.

Stop into the Birkenstock store

The Cannon Beach Birkenstock store is a cozy haven for comfortable, beach-ready footwear. I always enjoy browsing their selection and finding my next pair of trusty sandals.

Visit Haystack Rock

Walking along the beach to this iconic landmark is a must-do. At low tide, tide pools brim with colorful sea creatures, and in summer, puffins nest on the grassy ledges.

Hike Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park offers some of the most scenic views on the Oregon Coast. Trails wind through lush Sitka spruce forests before opening to dramatic ocean vistas.

Places to eat & drink in Cannon Beach

  • Coffee at Sleepy Monk: My go-to for rich, flavorful coffee that perfectly matches the cozy coastal vibe. Their organic beans and freshly baked pastries make it the ideal first stop of the day.

  • Breakfast at Pig ‘N Pancake: This local favorite serves hearty breakfasts that hit the spot after a morning beach walk. Their breakfast feels like you are eating at your grandparents house.

  • Dinner at Pelican Restaurant: We loved Pelican Restaurant so much that it was the only place we ate for dinner. The seafood is fresh and perfectly prepared, and they are a must for craft beer lovers. I highly recommend their Pelican Cider alongside the beer flights.

  • Tom’s Fish & Chips: Casual, classic spot for perfectly fried seafood. I love grabbing a plate after a day on the beach—the fish is crispy, flaky, and paired with piping-hot fries.

  • Driftwood Restaurant and Lounge: Classic Oregon Coast seafood in a more laid-back setting. Open 80+ years.

Need to know

You can easily take the bus from Portland to Cannon Beach, making it a perfect weekend getaway along the Oregon Coast. The ride is scenic, winding through lush forests and coastal hills, giving you a glimpse of the natural beauty before you even arrive.

Once in town, everything is within walking distance from the iconic Haystack Rock and tide pools to cozy cafés, art galleries, and local shops. It’s an easy, stress-free way to enjoy the best of Cannon Beach without worrying about driving or parking.

Advisor - Kayleigh Ethridge

Travel Advisor

Kayleigh Ethridge

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Oregon page.