Are you looking for an amazing, kid-friendly PNW weekend getaway? Scroll to learn all about all the fun things to do in Cannon Beach, Oregon!
This post about things to do in Cannon Beach, Oregon, was written by PNW family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
With awe-inspiring coastline and sandy beach views, the Oregon Coast has some of the most dramatic scenery that you’ll find anywhere along the Pacific Northwest. It’s mindblowing how there are low-key fun things to do in Cannon Beach.
Not too long ago, the city even caught the attention of National Geographic magazine, which named it “one of the World’s 100 Most Beautiful Places.”
The city of Cannon Beach has several access points that provide fabulous viewpoints so you can get a better look, along with plenty of natural areas to explore nearby.
But besides beauty, the city of Cannon Beach has a lot of fun things to do, neat places to explore, and great restaurants to grab a bite to eat. Even your kiddos will have a fabulous time when you visit. It’s no wonder it’s one of the cutest towns in Oregon!
So what are you waiting for? These are some of the best things to do on this lovely beach in PNW.
Cannon Beach, Oregon FAQs
The Oregon Coast is a top vacation spot in the Pacific Northwest because the beaches are sandier than the rocky Washington Coast. Of all the Oregon Coast towns, Cannon Beach is the most popular because of the miles of sandy beaches and gorgeous coastline.
There’s a slight difference in price and amenities between these two popular Pacific Northwest beach towns. Cannon Beach is a bit more upscale, with art galleries, boutiques, and nice restaurants, while Seaside is more affordable for families. Both are great Pacific Northwest getaways, though.
YES, Whales migrate off the coast of Oregon, and Cannon Beach is a great spot to look for Gray Whales. Whale watching is especially popular during migration seasons in mid March to May and mid December to January.
Why Families Love Cannon Beach
There are at least two things that make Cannon Beach stand out for families: its breathtaking natural beauty and the abundance of kid-friendly activities.
Whether you’re admiring the iconic sea stack at Haystack Rock or exploring the nearby parks, it’s easy to see why so many families love Cannon Beach and return year after year.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of migrating whales during the peak migration times of mid-March to May and mid-December to January. Whale watching is a popular activity here!
Best Time to Visit Cannon Beach
When planning your itinerary for Cannon Beach, the best time to visit really depends on what you want to experience. But as far as weather is concerned, the best time to experience the Oregon Coast is between late July and September.
When is the best time to visit?
September is arguably the best month to visit Cannon Beach, with beautiful weather that’s still plenty warm and fewer chances for rain. Once October arrives, that’s usually when the rainy season comes, but that’s also when the vibrant colors of autumn make their way onto the scene.
If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind cold and rainy weather, the off-season months like mid-January can offer a peaceful and scenic getaway along the coast. Families who visit during early September will still enjoy warm temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a great time to explore the area.
Cannon Beach Activities
Outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike will be ecstatic to know that there are many recreational activities and things to do at Cannon Beach. Several include swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
If you visit at just the right time, you may spot Bald Eagles, Brown Pelicans, or Tufted Puffins resting on the rocks. Gray whales, seals, sea lions, and Roosevelt Elk are a few other notorious visitors.
Tide pools along the beach are especially fun for kids to explore during low tide, where you can spot colorful sea stars, anemones, and other marine life nestled between rocks.
Amazing Experiences
Cannon Beach is also an excellent beach where you can catch a fantastic sunset. Should you be searching for a more intimate experience with nature, a handful of nearby campgrounds provide a starry night sky that’s perfect for stargazing.
During the winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular in Coastal Oregon, not far from the city. But these are only the tip of the iceberg!
Cannon Beach Attractions
Sitting back and admiring Haystack Rock is certainly one of the best things to do in Oregon, and there’s no way that you could possibly miss it! This iconic geographical feature is Oregon’s most recognizable landmark.
But you also shouldn’t be afraid to set out and explore the beach a little. You’ll find plenty of other fascinating rock formations a little further down along the beach, like Hug Point, where you can walk through sea caves and even see a small waterfall.
Horseback Riding
On the south end of the beach, you may run into people horseback riding at the Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site.
Another natural attraction you’d be absolutely crazy to miss out on is Ecola State Park. Let’s just say that the hiking trails you will find there take you to viewpoints with some of the most remarkable views you’ve ever seen. And that’s not stretching it!
The lush forest trails and rugged cliffs offer a good view of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for family photos or a peaceful picnic.
Cheap Parking Options
There’s only a $5 parking fee, which is a steal for what you get to experience. Oswald West State Park is another fantastic Oregon state park to check out. It’s known for its beautiful forest scenery that hugs the rocky coastline. It’s also a great place to picnic with your family.
A popular trail leads to Short Sand Beach, a favorite among surfers and families for its gentle waves and scenic shoreline.
Ecola State Park has a $5 parking fee, which is a steal for what you get to experience. Parking in downtown Cannon Beach varies.
Downtown Cannon Beach
While Cannon Beach is considerably small, the city still has much to offer. Downtown Cannon Beach is conveniently situated only a stone’s throw away from the beach and has all the charm you could hope for in a small town beach destination.
Plenty of shopping to partake in.
As you make your way along the sidewalks and courtyards, you’ll find all kinds of great shopping, whether you’re hoping to buy clothing, jewelry, flavorful candies, or a new surfboard.
Other fascinating things to do include visiting some of the art galleries and public art on display throughout the city.
The local art scene is thriving and reflects the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast, often showcasing works inspired by nearby places like Arch Cape and Rockaway Beach, both just a short drive away.
Hungry or thirsty?
When you’re getting hungry or thirsty, you’ll be excited to know that there’s quite a variety of restaurants, breweries, and pubs to choose from. Some top places to eat in Cannon Beach include Bistro, the Cannon Beach Smokehouse, and Tom’s Fish & Chips.
If you’re interested in a tasty brew, the Public Coast Brewing Company and Pelican Brewing Company are two of the locals’ favorite breweries. After a hearty meal, stroll toward the shore to soak in the fresh Pacific Ocean breeze.
Something for everyone
Every year, the city participates in many fun events and activities, whether you’re a young couple or a family with a handful of kids. If you’re interested, be sure to click on the link to learn more about Cannon Beach events so that you can plan your visit.
Things to Do Near Cannon Beach
The Hug Point State Recreational Area is about 3 miles away and is one of the top things to do around Cannon Beach.
When it’s low tide there, you’ll discover sea caves and a stunning waterfall, along with the remains of an old road once a part of the cliffside.
Families love this scenic stop not just for the photo ops, but for the shallow water and tide pool exploration it offers during low tide.
Stop in Manzanita
Other neat things to do near Cannon Beach, Oregon, include stopping in the town of Manzanita, a hidden gem with excellent Neahkahnie Mountain and beach views.
This charming small town is also near Oswald West State, where nature trails wind through lush forest and open up to sweeping ocean overlooks. It’s another wonderful example of the natural beauty you’ll find along the Oregon Coast.
Tillamook Rock Lighthouse
Are you still looking for unique things to do on the Oregon Coast? More often referred to as “Terrible Tilly”, the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse is situated about a mile from the shore.
Though you can no longer step inside the lighthouse, it’s still neat to gaze at the structure and learn about its troublesome past. This lighthouse, visible from Ecola State Park, stands defiantly in the Pacific Ocean, and its story fascinates history buffs and lighthouse lovers alike.
Cannon Beach Exploring
Last but not least, other unique things to do in Cannon Beach include exploring the Arcadia Beach Tide Pools and Devil’s Cauldron. It’s a very short hike, but keep in mind that it may be too steep for smaller children. Make sure to visit during low tide for the safest and most rewarding experience.
If you’re up for more exploration, consider a short drive south to Rockaway Beach or Arch Cape, two peaceful coastal spots that showcase even more of the Oregon Coast’s natural beauty. These lesser-known areas are ideal for families seeking quiet beaches and stunning views.
Cannon Beach Oregon Activities Wrap-Up
With so many attractions and things to do in the area, it’s time that you and your family visit Cannon Beach.
You’ll learn a lot about its history and witness some of the most spectacular views in the entire state. Whether you’re hiking in a state park, watching the sunset over a dramatic sea stack, or enjoying local art galleries, there’s something here for every family member.
What do you plan on seeing and doing when you get there?