Welcome to Cannon Beach, Oregon—where stunning coastal views meet small-town charm and artistic flair. Whether you’re a beach lover, an art enthusiast, or just looking for a scenic escape, Cannon Beach offers a blend of relaxation and exploration you’ll want to experience. Let’s dig in and uncover all this Oregon Coast Gem has in store, from scenic drives to unique shops and cozy cafes.
Tabel of Contents
Explore Cannon Beach: History, Art, and Scenic Stops
The Perfect Coastal Drive: Why Highway 101 is Worth It
For those seeking a scenic adventure, the drive from Ashland to Cannon Beach along Highway 101 is a must. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking coastal views—think towering cliffs that plunge straight into the ocean and small, charming towns like Lincoln City and Tillamook along the way. If narrow, cliffside roads aren’t for you, take I-5 through Portland instead. But for those who don’t mind a few hairpin turns, the beauty of Highway 101 makes the journey just as memorable as the destination.
Highway 101’s stunning cliffs and ocean views, a road trip to remember.
A Stroll Through Cannon Beach History
Step into the past at the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum, a treasure trove of local history with exhibits dedicated to this charming town and Arch Cape. Browse historic photos, collect a stamp from the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, and explore memorabilia that showcases the area’s unique story. Located at 1387 South Spruce Street, this museum operates on donations and offers a charming glimpse into Oregon’s coastal heritage.
Pro Tip: Check the museum’s events page for upcoming events and exhibits when you go to visit.
Artistic Flair and Shopping Galore
Icefire Glassworks: A Must-See for Art Lovers
If you’re an art enthusiast, visiting the Icefire Glassworks should be high on your list. This glass studio and gallery showcases works by renowned artists, including blown glass and hot-sculpted pieces. With vibrant colors and unique designs, this gallery captures the creative spirit of this Oceanfront Haven. Even if you’re not buying, browsing through these handcrafted pieces is an experience all its own.
Vibrant glass sculptures on display at Icefire Glassworks, where each piece is a work of art.
Where to Shop in Cannon Beach: Downtown, Midtown, and Tolovana
Cannon Beach offers three distinct shopping areas, each with its own flair:
- Downtown: Find souvenirs at Sandpiper Square, browse Bruce’s Candy Kitchen for fresh saltwater taffy, or spoil your pet at Four Paws on the Beach.
- Midtown: Admire Haystack Rock from the shops, then visit Center Diamond for fabrics or Cleanline Surf for surf gear.
- Tolovana: For a more relaxed vibe, head to Tolovana Park. Stock up on essentials at Surfcrest Market, known for its local produce and Oregon wines.
- If you are not a pro-photographer, the Oregon Gallery is a fantastic resource. The shop owners are a talented husband-and-wife team. Ginna, who is behind the counter in the shop handles framing and sales. Her husband is the expert photographer capturing stunning images of Cannon Beach. Ginna is warm and attentive, making the experience enjoyable. The reasonable prices and a beautiful selection make it difficult to choose. But the quality selection and craftsmanship make it worthwhile.
Cannon Beach’s shopping districts offer a mix of quirky, coastal boutiques and must-see landmarks.
Where to Eat in Cannon Beach
Eat, Drink, and Relax: Cannon Beach’s Top Dining Spots
After exploring, grab a bite at these unique eateries:
- Cannon Beach Hardware & Public House: It’s a hardware store with a twist—serving up Cajun tater tots, burgers, and local brews. Don’t miss the fish and chips; they’re delicious! For solo travelers, grab a seat at the bar, enjoy the food, and strike up a conversation with the friendly locals.
- Cannon Beach Chocolate Cafe: For a sweet treat, this cafe specializes in chocolate drinks and pastries.
- MacGregor’s: A whiskey lover’s paradise, MacGregor’s features over 300 varieties and specialty cocktails. Try their Grilled Salmon Salad for a refreshing coastal-inspired meal.
- The Wayfarer: For a decadent breakfast, Cinnamon Roll French Toast Oregon hazelnuts, whipped marionberry butter, maple syrup. Because calories don’t count on vacation.
Grab a meal with a view at The Wayfarer, with Haystack Rock in sight.
Wrap-Up
Cannon Beach is a captivating blend of scenic beauty, history, and small-town hospitality. Whether you’re exploring its beaches, discovering local art, or tasting craft cocktails, every corner of this coastal gem has something special. If you want other things to do in the area take the hour’s drive to Astoria. For more information on this charming seaside town read my blog Astoria Day Trip from Cannon Beach – History, Bakeries, and Coastal Charm. Plan your trip, pack your camera, and embrace the charm of this Coastal Getaway—it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!
