Some of the region's finest restaurants, wine bars, clothing boutiques, galleries, and local theaters dot the quaint downtown streets, making the area a prime destination for those who want to enjoy the finer things in life along with the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast.

The beach itself, considered one of the state's finest, is dominated by the monolithic Haystack Rock. At low tide, curious beachcombers can be found examining and photographing the starfish, sea anemone, and crabs that make their homes in the tide pools at the rock's base. The sandy white shores are popular with sand castle builders, kite fliers, swimmers, sunbathers, horseback riders, and four-legged Frisbee chasers alike.

Beautiful state parks and recreation areas surround Cannon Beach, with a number of spectacular hikes and scenic vistas. Ecola State Park lies just north of town, and don't forget your camera. You'll want it as you hike up to the viewpoint at the Tillamook Head Lighthouse... or reach a deserted stretch of sand at the end of the Indian Beach Trail... or follow in Lewis & Clark's footsteps along the Clatsop Loop Trail. Other nearby attractions include the sandy shores at two state recreation areas, Arcadia Beach and Hug Point.

Carefully guarded development has kept many of the big-name chains out of Cannon Beach, resulting in a unique sense of community in the small town. Here, some family-run businesses have become local institutions, so don't be surprised when residents politely insist you try a Tillamook cheddar biscuit at Waves of Grain Bakery, or the bacon-wrapped dates at Sweet Basil Cafe. We suggest you take their advice!

Only an hour and a half from Portland and under four hours from Seattle, Cannon Beach makes a great home base to explore the scenic Northern Oregon Coast. The more touristy attractions of Seaside, including the Promenade's souvenir shops, arcades, and buzzing atmosphere, are only fifteen minutes north on Highway 101; head south for a slower pace in sleepy Arch Cape (five minutes away) or laid-back Manzanita (twenty minutes).