Cannon Beach had been on our list forever, so when Tom and I planned a road trip down the Oregon coast, we knew we had to stop. Even better? We got to spend the day with my high school bestie, Becca, and her husband, Mike, after visiting them in Vancouver, Washington for a couple of days. It was the perfect way to wrap up our time together before we headed south.
What we didn’t expect was just how magical the day would turn out.
The Fog, The Mystery, The Grand Reveal
We rolled into Cannon Beach in the morning, and it was completely covered in thick, eerie fog. The kind that makes everything feel quiet, mysterious, and a little otherworldly. We could hear the waves, but the ocean was basically invisible.
Haystack Rock? Nowhere to be seen. Well, okay, it was there—but only as a shadowy outline in the mist, looming like something out of a dream.
Honestly, it was kind of amazing. The four of us strolled along the damp sand, soaking up the moody, dramatic vibes of the place. It felt like we had stepped into a story, walking through a misty, untouched world.
And then—like something straight out of a movie—the fog started to lift.
Little breaks of blue sky peeked through, and suddenly, boom—there was Haystack Rock, standing tall and massive against the brightest sky we’d ever seen. The color shift was wild. What had been soft and muted just minutes before was now vivid and alive. The ocean sparkled, the rock face was crisp and detailed, and the whole beach just glowed.
It was one of those moments you don’t forget—watching something reveal itself in real time, like nature showing off just for us.
Things to Do in Cannon Beach
Beyond the sheer magic of Haystack Rock, there’s so much to see and do in this little coastal town.
Explore Haystack Rock and the Tide Pools
If you’re visiting at low tide, get up close to the famous 235-foot sea stack and check out the incredible tide pools at its base. You’ll find bright sea anemones, purple starfish, and tiny crabs tucked among the rocks. In the spring and summer, tufted puffins nest on the rock, which is just about the cutest thing ever.
Hike in Ecola State Park
For epic views of the coastline, head to Ecola State Park just north of town. There are some great hiking trails (the Clatsop Loop Trail is a favorite), plus picnic areas and lookouts that make you feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world.
Visit Hug Point
A short drive south of town, Hug Point State Recreation Site has sea caves, a seasonal waterfall, and old wagon trail tracks carved into the rock from when settlers used the beach as a highway. It’s a cool, historical little spot with stunning views.
Eat ALL the Good Food
You can’t come to Cannon Beach and not eat something amazing. A few must-try spots:
- Pelican Brewing – Great beer, great seafood, and an even better view.
- Sleepy Monk Coffee – Hands down the best coffee in town (and some killer pastries).
- Ecola Seafoods – If you’re in the mood for fresh-caught fish and the best clam chowder around, this is the place.
Check Out the Art Scene
Cannon Beach is known as one of the best small-town art destinations in the country. There are tons of galleries filled with local and regional artwork—perfect for strolling through after a beach walk.
Tips for Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Cannon Beach is gorgeous year-round, but if you want smaller crowds, visit in the off-season (fall and spring). We lucked out with our August visit, but it does get busy in the summer.
Check the Tides
If you want to explore tide pools or walk out near Haystack Rock, be sure to check the tide charts first!
Layers, Layers, Layers
The Oregon coast does whatever it wants when it comes to weather. The morning we arrived, it was chilly and damp, but by afternoon, we were basking in the warm sun. Bring layers, and thank me later.
For the Less Abled
Cannon Beach is surprisingly accessible for a coastal town. The Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site offers ADA-accessible pathways, making it easier to enjoy the stunning ocean views. Beach wheelchairs are available for rent nearby, and many restaurants and shops in town are wheelchair-friendly. Ecola State Park has an accessible viewpoint at Ecola Point, so everyone can take in the beauty of this special place.
Final Thoughts
Cannon Beach is one of those places that sticks with you. Maybe it’s the towering sea stacks, the golden sand, or the ever-changing sky. Maybe it’s the way the fog rolls in and transforms everything, or the simple joy of watching the sun set over the Pacific.
For us, it was the perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and time spent with people we love. If you’re ever on the Oregon coast, do yourself a favor and stop here.
And if the fog is thick when you arrive? Just wait for the reveal. Trust me, it’s worth it. It was an amazing birthday!
Planning a Trip?
If you’re heading to Cannon Beach, check out my travel guides for more road trip inspiration!