Looking for the best things to do in Cannon Beach? You are in the right place. This small town on the Oregon coast has a giant sea rock, wide sandy beaches, cozy shops, and forest trails with ocean views. It is about 90 miles from Portland, so it works for a day trip or a long weekend.
This guide is made to be simple and honest. We checked details with official sources like the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce, Oregon State Parks, and the Haystack Rock Awareness Program. We also point out things that change often, like fees and event dates, so you know when to double-check.
Below you will find the top things to do in Cannon Beach by type: nature, wildlife, food and art, family fun, and rainy-day ideas. You will also get a one-day plan, a season guide, safety tips, and answers to common questions. Let’s start.
Top Things to Do in Cannon Beach
| Activity | Best For | Cost | Best Time |
| Haystack Rock | Everyone | Free | Low tide, sunrise, or sunset |
| Ecola State Park | Views and hiking | Parking fee | Clear days |
| Tide pooling | Kids and nature fans | Free | Low tide |
| Puffin watching | Bird lovers | Free | April to July |
| Hug Point | Waterfall and caves | Free | Low tide |
| Short Sand Beach (Oswald West) | Surfing and hiking | Check state park rules | Summer and early fall |
| Downtown shops and galleries | Rainy days | Free to browse | Any time |
| Sandcastle Contest | Families | Free to watch | June |
What Is Cannon Beach Known For?
Cannon Beach is known for Haystack Rock, a huge sea stack that rises about 235 feet from the sand. It is one of the most photographed places in Oregon. The town is also known for its art galleries, its walkable downtown, and its movie fame. Parts of The Goonies were filmed here, and fans still come to see the spots.
Because the beach is public and the town is small, you can park once and walk to many of the best things to do in Cannon Beach.
Nature and Beach Things to Do in Cannon Beach
1. See Haystack Rock
This is the number one stop. You can see the rock from almost anywhere on the beach, but it feels even bigger up close. Walk toward it at low tide to see the base.
Tips:
- Check the tide chart before you go. The base is easiest to reach at low tide.
- Go at sunrise or sunset for the best photos and fewer people.
- Do not climb the rock. It is a protected seabird nesting area.
Above the high tide line, Haystack Rock is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. That is why rules are strict here.
2. Explore the Tide Pools
Tide pooling is one of the most fun things to do in Cannon Beach for kids. At low tide, small pools appear around the base of the rock. Look for sea stars, anemones, crabs, and barnacles.
Volunteers from the Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) are on the beach during daytime low tides, mostly from May through Labor Day. They wear red jackets, and they are happy to answer questions. HRAP also helps run a program that lets people borrow beach wheelchairs. Schedules can change, so check with the program before you go.
Tide pool rules:
- Look, but do not touch or pick up animals.
- Walk on bare sand when you can, not on living things.
- Never take shells or animals home.
3. Watch Tufted Puffins
Want a special thing to do in Cannon Beach? Look for puffins. These birds have bright orange bills and yellow “eyebrows.” They return to Haystack Rock each spring to nest. You can usually see them from about April to July, and the chicks head out to sea in late summer.
Haystack Rock is known as one of the easiest places in the Northwest to see tufted puffins. Their numbers have dropped a lot since 1980, so every sighting matters. Bring binoculars, or stop by an HRAP table to look through a spotting scope when one is set up.
4. Walk or Bike on the Beach
The sand is wide and flat, which makes it great for long walks. Many people also ride fat-tire bikes at low tide. The town has even hosted a Fat Bike Festival in the spring.
The beach is often windy. That makes it a perfect place to fly a kite, which is a classic Cannon Beach activity and costs almost nothing.
5. Visit Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park is just north of town. It is one of the top things to do in Cannon Beach for views. The park wraps around Tillamook Head and has about 9 miles of coastline.
What to do there:
- Stop at Ecola Point for the famous view of the coast and Haystack Rock.
- Visit Indian Beach, a favorite spot for surfers.
- Hike the Clatsop Loop Trail through the forest.
- Look out to the old Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, nicknamed “Terrible Tilly.”
- In winter and spring, watch for gray whales on calm, clear days.
Good to know: Ecola is a day-use park. You need a parking permit, and there is no overnight camping or parking. The fee was listed at $5 in some older guides but is about $10 per vehicle in newer sources, so check the Oregon State Parks website before you go. An annual state parks pass also works.
6. Hike Tillamook Head
For a longer hike, try the Tillamook Head Trail. It connects the Seaside side of the headland with Ecola State Park. The trail can be wet and muddy, so wear real shoes or boots. Part of the route may have closures after storms, so read the latest trail notes first.
7. Chase the Waterfall at Hug Point
Hug Point is about five miles south of town, and it is free to visit. At low tide you can walk around the rocks to see a small waterfall that flows right onto the beach. You will also find sandstone caves, tide pools, and an old road carved into the cliff. Long ago, stagecoaches had to “hug” the point to pass.
Safety first: The tide matters here. People do get stuck on the wrong side when the water comes back in. Check a tide table, and leave early.
8. Surf or Hike at Oswald West State Park
About 10 miles south of town, Oswald West State Park has forest trails and Short Sand Beach, which locals call “Shorty’s.” It is a popular cove for surfing and a great spot for a picnic or a short walk. If you like longer hikes, the Cape Falcon area has trails with big ocean views.
9. Have a Beach Campfire
A small fire on the sand at sunset is a favorite thing to do in Cannon Beach at night. Fire rules can change with weather and local law, so check the current rules before you light anything. Always keep the fire small, stay close to it, and put it out fully with water.
10. Go Crabbing
Crabbing is popular on the north Oregon coast, especially in fall and winter. Many people go to nearby bays, such as Nehalem Bay, and rent gear from local marinas. You will need to follow Oregon fishing and shellfish rules, so check them first.
Culture, Art, and Food Things to Do in Cannon Beach
11. Stroll Through Downtown
Downtown Cannon Beach is small and easy to walk. You will find cedar-shingled shops, bookstores, candy and taffy stores, and cafes. It is a great place to spend a few hours, especially when the weather turns gray.
12. Visit the Art Galleries
The town has a strong art scene. Several galleries are within a few blocks of each other, so you can walk from one to the next. Many show work by local and regional artists, including paintings, sculpture, and glass.
13. Catch a Show at the Coaster Theatre Playhouse
The Coaster Theatre Playhouse has offered community theater in Cannon Beach since 1972. It is at 108 North Hemlock Street. Check its calendar for plays, music, and special events during your trip.
14. Learn Local History
The Cannon Beach History Center & Museum is a small, friendly museum that tells the story of the town and the coast. It is a good rainy-day stop, and it is quick enough to fit into a busy day. You can reach the museum at (503) 436-9301 for hours.
15. Browse the Library
The Cannon Beach Library on North Hemlock Street is another cozy, free place to warm up on a wet day. It also hosts community events from time to time.
16. Eat Fresh Seafood and Local Food
The coast is a good place for fish and chips, clam chowder, and fresh crab. The area also has local breweries, bakeries, and coffee shops. Menus and hours change by season, so it helps to check before you go, especially in winter.
Events: Fun Things to Do in Cannon Beach by Season
17. Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest
Started in 1964, this is Oregon’s oldest sandcastle contest. Teams build huge sand sculptures on the beach, and thousands of people come to watch. The 2026 contest was held June 20. The Chamber of Commerce lists the next one for June 11–13, 2027. Book lodging early, because the town gets very busy that weekend.
18. Stormy Weather Arts Festival
Held on the first weekend of November, this festival fills the town with gallery shows, artist receptions, music, and workshops. The 2026 festival is listed for November 6–8, which means it is happening right now as you read this. Galleries and local groups host events across town.
19. Puffin Welcome Celebration
In April, HRAP holds an event to welcome the puffins back for nesting season. It is free and made for all ages.
Things to Do in Cannon Beach With Kids
Cannon Beach is a great family town. Here are easy ideas for children:
- Go tide pooling at low tide (with an adult close by).
- Build a sandcastle or a driftwood fort.
- Fly a kite on a windy afternoon.
- Look for puffins and ask an HRAP volunteer questions.
- Eat ice cream or taffy downtown.
- Hunt for the Goonies filming spots with older kids.
Keep children well back from the water. Cold waves can be stronger than they look.
Rainy Day Things to Do in Cannon Beach
It rains often on the Oregon coast, so have a backup plan. Good indoor choices include:
- Gallery hopping
- The History Center & Museum
- A show at the Coaster Theatre
- Bookstores and the library
- A cafe, bakery, or brewery stop
Here is a secret: many locals love Cannon Beach in winter. Storms roll in, waves crash, and the town is quieter. Watching the ocean from a warm window with a hot drink is a real Cannon Beach treat.
Best Time to Visit Cannon Beach
There is no single best season. It depends on what you want.
| Season | What You Get | What to Expect |
| Spring | Puffins return, whale watching, fewer crowds | Rain and cool air |
| Summer | Best weather, tide pool programs, events | Biggest crowds and busy parking |
| Fall | Quieter beaches, crabbing season, golden light | Weather can change fast |
| Winter | Storm watching, cozy stays, low prices | Wet, windy, and cold |
One-Day Cannon Beach Itinerary
Use this plan if you only have one day.
| Time | Plan |
| Morning | Coffee and a walk on the beach. See Haystack Rock at low tide if you can. |
| Late morning | Visit Ecola State Park for views and a short hike. |
| Lunch | Seafood or a bakery stop downtown. |
| Afternoon | Shop and visit galleries. Add the History Center if it rains. |
| Sunset | Return to the beach for photos or a small campfire where allowed. |
With a second day, add Hug Point at low tide and Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park.
How to Get to Cannon Beach
Most visitors come by car. From Portland, take Highway 26 west and then Highway 101 south. The trip is about 90 miles and often takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Many people also come from Washington, and some drive the whole coast on Highway 101. Public transit options are limited, so plan on having a car.
Safety Tips for Your Cannon Beach Trip
The Pacific Ocean is beautiful, but it is powerful. Keep these tips in mind:
- Check the tide chart before any beach or rock walk.
- Never turn your back on the ocean. Sudden large waves can sweep people off the sand.
- Stay away from big logs in the surf. Waves can roll them quickly.
- Wear layers. The coast can be windy and cool, even in summer.
- Respect wildlife. Keep your distance from birds and animals.
- Follow park rules. Dogs must be on a leash at Ecola State Park.
Money-Saving Tips
- Many of the best things to do in Cannon Beach are free, including the beach, Haystack Rock, tide pools, and Hug Point.
- Visit in fall or winter for lower hotel prices.
- If you plan to visit several Oregon state parks, an annual pass may cost less than paying each day.
- Arrive early on summer weekends to find parking.
Conclusion
The best things to do in Cannon Beach are simple and memorable. Watch the sun set behind Haystack Rock, look for puffins in spring, peek into tide pools, and stand on a cliff at Ecola State Park with the whole coast below you. Then warm up with a gallery visit or a bowl of chowder.
Plan around the tides, pack layers, and check fees and event dates before you go. If you do, your trip will be easy and fun. Save this guide, share it with your travel partner, and enjoy every minute of your Cannon Beach adventure.
Things to Do in Cannon Beach FAQs
1. What are the best things to do in Cannon Beach for first-timers?
Start with Haystack Rock, the tide pools, and Ecola State Park. Add a stroll downtown and a sunset beach walk.
2. How many days do you need in Cannon Beach?
One full day covers the highlights. Two or three days let you add Hug Point, Oswald West State Park, and slower time in town.
3. Is Cannon Beach worth visiting?
Yes. It offers famous scenery, wildlife, art, and food in a small, walkable town. That mix is why so many people return.
4. Are there free things to do in Cannon Beach?
Yes. The beach, Haystack Rock, tide pooling, puffin watching, Hug Point, and window shopping all cost nothing. Only some parks charge a parking fee.
