Located on Oregon’s northern Pacific coast, Cannon Beach is a well-heeled destination that’s particularly popular with Portland|Portland’s residents as a weekend getaway. The city’s name was derived from a small iron cannon that was washed ashore from a shipwrecked schooner, known as the ‘Shark’. Commercial yet pleasant, Cannon Beach attracts a less seedy crowd than neighboring Seaside.
Haystack Rock is the landmark by which most people know and recognize Cannon Beach. Located near Tolovana Park, this landmark is often accessible at low tide during the summer months. A series of small caves, visible from the beach, penetrate the rock formation.
This popular seaside vacation resort stretches along four miles of scenic Pacific coast. The town’s commercial area is a compact grid centered on Hemlock street, which is the main street passing through Cannon Beach. This pleasant area is filled with shops and eateries, and has buildings adorned with displays of bright summer flowers.
Highlights
Haystack Rock: is 235ft high and ranks as the world’s third largest natural monolithic structure. It is part of the protected area known as the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge and is also designated as a National Wilderness Area.
The Needles: are two tall rock formations that jut skyward near Haystack Rock. When viewed together with Haystack Rock, a lovely photo opportunity presents itself, particularly when the sun sets.
Coaster Theater Playhouse: is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most highly-rated community theater groups and has been offering up an ambitious annual calendar of performances for more than 20 years. Contemporary and traditional dramas, comedies and musicals are staged here, as are dance and music concerts around the year.
Sandcastle Competition: the liveliest time to visit Canon Beach is during this annual event, where Elvis and Jesus sand-sculptures regularly feature.