Experience Sunset Bonfires and Vibrant Tide Pools During Your Weekend in Cannon Beach

Located just 90 minutes west of Portland, Highway 26 converges with U.S. Highway 101, leading you into Cannon Beach. This rugged part of northwestern Oregon invites visitors to discover tide pools, hike through lush forests, and appreciate local art.

Moreover, this coastal paradise is a favored romantic getaway, boasting cozy, upscale beachfront accommodations and delicious seafood. The quaint downtown area, lined with cedar-shingled boutiques and galleries, enchants travelers with its relaxed vibe. Towering at 235 feet, the iconic basalt Haystack Rock stands proudly against the Pacific Ocean, captivating onlookers as the light dances across it throughout the day.

As an adult, I yearn for those nostalgic summer “sweatshirt beach days” I spent at Cannon Beach in my childhood. Here’s a guide on how to enjoy a weekend here, complete with a sandy bonfire at sunset.

Top Activities to Enjoy in Cannon Beach

Embark on a mini marine adventure

Your first destination: the tide pools nestled at the base of the towering Haystack Rock. These enchanting pools are home to a variety of marine creatures, including anemones, sea stars, and sea slugs, and are best explored during low tide. During this time, volunteer wildlife guides are available to answer questions and highlight the marine life. Private tours can also be arranged.

Haystack Rock hosts the second-largest onshore population of tufted puffins in the continental United States. These colorful shorebirds, known as a “circus” in groups, nest on Haystack Rock from April to August.

Tip: The Oregon Coast’s unpredictable weather can shift from foggy mornings to sunny afternoons, culminating in a brisk golden sunset. Layer your clothing—what feels right at breakfast might change by the afternoon.

Observe artists at work and participate in a workshop

Cannon Beach boasts a vibrant community of local creatives, showcasing public art, year-round exhibitions, live theater, and numerous retail galleries. With 15 galleries within a few walkable blocks, you can witness glass sculptures being crafted at Icefire Glassworks (a functional glass studio and gallery) or enroll in a photography workshop offered by the Cannon Beach Arts Association.

Hike and surf

A brief drive north or south of Cannon Beach unveils a variety of additional beaches and trails, including the beach caves at Hug Point (about 4.5 miles south) and panoramic views from Ecola State Park (roughly 2 miles north). A rewarding and easy hike just south of town is Oswald West State Park, where a flat, half-mile path through a lush rainforest leads to one of Oregon's most picturesque coves. Local surfers frequently enjoy this popular spot, with surf classes, wetsuits, and board rentals available at Cleanline Surf Shop in downtown Cannon Beach.

Host a sunset bonfire on the beach

Concluding your day with a sunset beach fire is a cherished tradition at Cannon Beach, and you don’t need a permit to enjoy it. Firewood and marshmallows can be purchased at Fresh Foods, located across from Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site. This area offers free parking with easy beach access, making it convenient to carry your blankets and firewood without hassle in the dark. Remember to check the tide table to plan your beach outings, as high tides can rise quickly.

Delight in the dog days

Cannon Beach is a paradise for dogs, featuring generous off-leash beach regulations. In town, your furry friends will find water dishes outside many shops, and pet-friendly outdoor dining options abound. One local store, Fetch, offers Frisbees, Pendleton dog beds, and travel accessories. You can even hire a pet photographer to capture special moments of your dog and family enjoying the beauty of Oregon’s beaches.

Dining and Drinking Spots in Cannon Beach

Sleepy Monk Coffee represents the pinnacle of Pacific Northwest coffee culture. This cozy, all-organic roastery serves award-winning beans and often has a line of customers winding out the door, rain or shine. After your coffee fix, head to Crêpe Neptune for delightful sweet or savory crêpes named after local landmarks, such as “Cape Blanco” and “Manzanita.” If you prefer a full-service breakfast, the Wayfarer offers stunning views of Haystack Rock along with delicious options like scratch-made smoked salmon Benedict and Dungeness crab omelets.

For lunch, don’t miss the fish and chips or clam chowder at the Ecola Seafoods counter. This family-run fish market collaborates with Oregon fishermen committed to sustainable fishing practices.

Beer enthusiasts can unwind on a sunny patio while savoring a cold, house-brewed beer and an IPA-brined chicken sandwich at Public Coast Brewing. The brewery's name honors Oregon’s 363 miles of coastline, which is fully accessible to the public. Brew aficionados can also explore Pelican Brewing’s ever-changing seasonal food and beer menu, where every dish (including desserts) is paired with a recommended beer, featuring 20 taps year-round and growler fills for takeout.

As the sun sets behind Haystack Rock, make your way to the Bistro Cannon Beach for cocktails and dinner. This hidden gem features a patio with live music every night. Its menu boasts freshly made pasta and inventive dishes showcasing local ingredients and seafood, including caramel chicken with nuoc cham slaw and cioppino served with soba noodles. Chef and owner Jack Stevenson, formerly of esteemed hotels like San Francisco’s Mandarin Oriental, has made Cannon Beach his culinary home. Reservations are advisable, and you’re welcome to bring your dog, as there’s even a canine menu available on the patio.

Accommodation Options in Cannon Beach

The Stephanie Inn

This upscale oceanfront inn and spa provides unique experiences that celebrate the food and art of the Pacific Northwest. Join a local honey tasting or take a cooking class featuring seasonal fruits sourced from the hotel’s own 40-acre culinary farm. Gourmet picnic basket lunches are also available for those on the go.

The Inn at Cannon Beach

A lush, wooded courtyard surrounded by greenery creates a charming village atmosphere among the collection of cottages at this property. Guests enjoy a complimentary morning yogurt and pastry breakfast, along with freshly baked cookies, coffee, and sand buckets for the kids.

The Ocean Lodge

Located right by the ocean, this lodge features a fireplace in every room. Each ground-floor accommodation opens directly onto a beachfront lawn, complete with an outdoor dog wash for your furry friends.