“Blast Off The Beaten Path To Cannon Beach, Oregon” - Travel Article
When you think of taking a trip to dip your toes into the Pacific Ocean your mind may immediately jump to some of California’s most iconic sandy spots. Keep in mind though that if these well-known beaches are your go-to, then they’re the top of everyone else’s travel plans too. So why would you spend even one moment of your well-earned vacation elbowing your way through the crowds you’ll find at these more common destinations when you can whisk yourself away to a more unique strip of sand? Adjust your mind’s eye just a tad north and consider California’s northern neighbor… Oregon.
If you’ve got a fair grasp of U.S. Geography, you may recall that Oregon also has its fair share of Pacific coast line. It’s here, tucked in Oregon’s northwest corner that you’ll find Cannon Beach, named “one of The World’s 100 Most Beautiful Places” by National Geographic. (1) This tiny town is home to just over 1,500 residents but packs an impressive amount of beauty and recreation into a small package. (2) A picturesque beach town with one-of-a-kind views, Cannon Beach is a must-see if you’re near by and can swing through for a day trip. It’s equally suited for a whole weekend away, with plenty of recreation and sights to keep you entertained for the duration. Just 90 minutes from the ever-popular Portland, Cannon Beach provides a seascape that will please any traveler. (3)
Cannon Beach lays to rest the age-old debate of whether to vacation in the mountains or the beach by bringing the two together in a stunning display. Perhaps the most iconic feature you’ll find along the 4 miles of Cannon Beach is Haystack Rock. Towering over the sand at 235 feet tall, the stately rock formation is mere feet from the shoreline and acts as a center piece that enhances the beach-going experience. If you’re on the beach around low tide, you can explore the base of the rock with no swimming required! You’ll find vibrant tidal pools filled with sea creatures galore, making this a great destination and learning opportunity for families with kids. Plus, if you’ll be in the area from early spring to mid-summer, you can pass the time by watching an entertaining colony of Tufted Puffins that call Haystack Rock home for the season. (4)
If you want more from a beach than a sandy spot to lounge and work on your tan, Cannon Beach has got your back on that front too. Both Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park are less than 10 minutes away. You can spend time hiking the lush forested trails or choose from additional recreation activities like surfing, tide-pooling, and picnicking.(5) (6) Another easily accessible spot is Hug Point which is located just a few miles south of Cannon Beach. Hug Point will appeal to history buffs because it served as a common passageway prior to the construction of the Coast Highway. During low tide you’ll be able to see the impressions of wagon tracks that are still visible in the rock from the multitude of travelers that passed through during the 1800s and early 1900s. Give yourself time to explore the easily accessible waterfall and sea caves that make this spot worth the visit, but be sure to head out before the tide comes in (it’s possible to get stranded if you’re not careful!) (7)
If off-season rates and an even more secluded getaway are up your alley, try visiting Cannon Beach between October and May. These cooler months are the perfect time to hunker down in your lodging of choice and enjoy watching storms roll in from the Pacific coast. Or, if admiring wildlife is your cup of tea, plan your visit to line up with the bi-annual migration of the 18,000 Gray Whales who can be seen journeying along the coast from strategic vantage points at the State Parks around Cannon Beach. Do you prefer quadrupeds? Herds of Roosevelt Elk meander around Cannon Beach’s forests and outskirts once the summer heat subsides. (8)
When you’ve hiked and explored to your heart’s content, the small town of Cannon Beach provides several popular places to refuel and rest your weary crew. Harding Trading Company serves up rustic French food with a cozy atmosphere to boot! They even have a heated deck if you’d like to dine outside. The Irish Table offers a fusion of Pacific Northwest flavors and Irish cuisine and highlights classic soups, fresh fish, and hearty hunks of soda bread. If you’re looking for a more casual family-friendly vibe, try Tom’s Fish & Chips for your pick from a variety of fish, burgers and other miscellaneous fried bites. Interested in making a weekend out of your visit? Cannon Beach has lodging available to fit any occasion, from budget-friendly motels, to rustic inns, to higher-end hotels and resorts.
For a getaway that’s less traveled and breathtaking scenery that can’t be beat, Cannon Beach is the perfect choice. Plus, the place is so darn photographable that all of your friends will be drooling over your photos and adding Cannon Beach to their own travel bucket list. Don’t wait, get there quick, before the secret is out!
http://www.cannonbeach.org/explore/Things-to-Do-and-See-in-Cannon-Beach-Oregon
https://datausa.io/profile/geo/cannon-beach-or/
http://www.cannonbeach.org/explore/Haystack-Rock-in-Cannon-Beach-Oregon
http://www.cannonbeach.org/explore/Things-to-Do-and-See-in-Cannon-Beach-Oregon
http://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=parkPage.dsp_parkPage&parkId=136
http://www.stateparks.com/hug_point_state_park_in_oregon.html
http://www.cannonbeach.org/explore/Secret-Season-Attractions-in-Cannon-Beach-Oregon
