10 Best Things to Do in Cannon Beach

Haystack Rock is a famous landmark composed of a giant monolith at the heart of a scenic wildlife refuge with wading, swimming, and climbing available. The rock rises 235 feet and was formed millions of years ago from the same lava flows that created many of the capes along the Oregon coast.

It's at the centre of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, and many people visit to see the wealth of local fauna here including crabs, sea stars, seabirds, puffins, and other marine life. At low tide, the rock can be climbed and is surrounded by tidal pools. Haystack Rock is just a 2-minute drive from the centre of city centre, just off the coast.

Cannon Beach offers 9 miles of secluded stretches of sloping dunes, historic lighthouses, green canopied forests, and dog-friendly sandy beachfront. The beach is renowned for its breathtaking beauty that has inspired artists and writers for decades. Just off the beach, you'll find cosy local eateries, small independent shops, and all the vibrant life the town has to offer.

On the beach itself, you can relax under the sun, wade in the surf, and just while away the hours in peace and serenity. The beach encompasses the entire shoreline of the city and is easily accessible from city centre.

Ecola State Park is 9 miles long with hiking, biking, and nature trails, and it overlooks locations on Cannon Beach where "The Goonies" and "Point Break" were filmed. The trails in the park offer access on foot, on a bicycle, or by car, and take you through old rainforest areas and thick canopies of lush green spruce along with secluded beach coves and grassy bluffs.

Its namesake Ecola Point provides a stunning lookout with panoramic views of the waters, and it also serves as a trailhead for hiking trails offering even more breathtaking vistas. The park is located just a 6-minute drive north of city centre.

Hug Point is a landmark located in a state recreation site that offers tonnes of outdoor activities from hiking and beachcombing to fishing, sunbathing, and picnicking. The point itself is part of the Hug Point State Recreation Site and is named for the corner along the coastline where in the late 19th century stagecoaches would be able to get around low tide.

It's just 5 miles south of Cannon Beach and is completely free to enjoy. It's a popular spot for its secluded, shaded cove that offers calm waters for swimming or relaxation.

Spruce Street is part of the main business district of Cannon Beach and offers great shopping in both name brands and small, independent boutique shops for the perfect souvenir. Not only will you find everything from beachwear to arts and crafts, but you can also stop off and grab a bite at any of a number of local restaurants, from small, quiet cafés to lively casual eateries and fancy, upscale dining establishments.

This street is in many ways the heart and soul of the city where everyone goes for a great time. It's one of the main drags running north-to-south in the central city, so it's easy to find.

Crescent Beach is a secluded stretch of sandy beach that allows access to caves at low tide and features a 2-mile out-and-back hiking trail. The trail itself is amongst the more popular, dog-friendly, and moderate hiking trails in Cannon Beach, with a natural waterfall on the way. If you bring your 4-legged family members along, note that they have to be kept on a leash.

The trail features an elevation gain of 488 feet and offers outstanding views of the water and beachfront areas. It takes you along stretches of sand, under thick, green forested canopies, and offers great opportunities for local wildlife viewing. It's about 7 minutes to the north of city centre Cannon Beach.

Icefire Glassworks is a charming and unique studio in rustic surroundings offering handcrafted glass art pieces made by local artisans. If you're looking for a gift, keepsake, or souvenir of your trip, you may find something at Icefire that's as unusual as it is elegant.

The shop has been open for over 40 years and offers vases, bowls, sculptures, ornaments, and other forms of hand-blown glass artwork including beads, jewellery, and fused glass panels. It's located right in the heart of city centre Cannon Beach.

Pelican Brewing Company offers an airy, spacious, and laid-back space where you can enjoy some of the best local craft beers and great pub-style eats. The brewery has been a staple of the region for more than 20 years and has a wide range of offerings including large-batch drafts, barrel-aged beers, and limited, small-run vault brews amongst its rotating taps.

The brewpub is locally owned and operated and has become a leader in the local craft brew scene. In addition to great food and great beer, you can take guided tours to see how the process of beer brewing works. It's located right in the heart of city centre along South Hemlock Street.