You will find Cannon Beach nestled along the scenic Pacific Northwest coast in Clatsop County, Oregon, accessible via U.S. Route 101. Previously settled by the Tillamook people and explored by William Clark in 1806, this coastal resort town sits roughly 20 miles south of Fort Clatsop. You can easily reach the area from Portland aboard the NorthWest POINT bus line or connect using regional transit routes running hourly between neighboring coastal communities.
The beach itself spans an 8-mile stretch of coastline extending south from Ecola Creek to Arch Cape. As you walk along the shore, you are treated to views across a boundless ocean dominated by Haystack Rock, a towering 235-foot igneous sea stack flanked by tall rock formations called the Needles. During low tide, especially in the summertime, you can walk near this striking natural landmark and observe its small cave system from the coast.
Around the shore, Cannon Beach maintains a relaxed small-town atmosphere by discouraging major chain stores in favor of artisan shops and galleries lining the streets. Whether you are hiking historic headland trails in nearby Ecola State Park or visiting in June for the annual sand castle contest, the town offers a charming coastal retreat. The area suits weekend travelers from Portland, couples seeking art festivals, and families looking to explore shorelines and local parks.
01 Highlights & things to do
What makes this stretch of coast worth the trip — from the water to the walks, wildlife and the views.
Compiled from Wikipedia · conditions vary with weather, tides and the season.
Beach map & the area
The free OpenStreetMap layer below shows the beach and its surroundings — the coastline, access roads, nearby towns and where to park. Zoom in for detail, or open it live in a full map.
Map: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL, free).
02 Getting there
| Option | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bus | The NorthWest POINT provides service between Union Station in Portland and Cannon Beach, with tickets available through Amtrak. |
| Bus | Sunset Empire Transportation District operates Route 20 and the Pacific Connector, providing hourly bus service connecting Cannon Beach to nearby communities. |
| Bus | Tillamook County Transportation District operates hourly bus transit between Cannon Beach and Tillamook. |
| Road | U.S. Highway 101 connects directly to Hemlock Street, the city's main thoroughfare, at both the north and south ends of town. |
Getting there · Last updated: 2026-09-12 · always double-check access & ferries
03 Best time to visit & the water
| Season | When | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Summertime | Features mild, dry Mediterranean climate conditions with average monthly temperatures below 71.6°F, ideal for low-tide ocean walks. |
| Late Fall | November | Hosts the annual Stormy Weather Arts Festival featuring Pacific Northwest artists in local galleries. |
Conditions vary with weather, tides & season · Last updated: 2026-09-12
04 Nearby & around
Other beaches, coves, towns and sights within easy reach — worth stringing together into a coastal day.
Good to know
- Haystack Rock is protected as part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, and events are not permitted within 100 feet of either side of the rock.
- Chain stores are discouraged from building in town to preserve the local economy and small-town feel, so you will find local shops and restaurants.
- Haystack Rock is most accessible on foot at low tide, particularly during the summer season.