We drove the Oregon Coast for the first time as a family over Spring Break. We spent 3-days trying to hit all the things you must see in Cannon Beach as per google. While we agreed with some suggestions, not all were worthy of our little time. And because of this we have compiled our own list, our families 6 things you must see in Cannon Beach.
We have been asked 1-million and 6 times if 3-days was enough in Cannon Beach, and my answer never changes. NO WAY! We could’ve easily spent 5-days there, and even closer to a week. But we would say 5-days would be plenty for those planning a family vacation.
Without further ado, here is our 6 things you must see in Cannon Beach:
SEE: HAYSTACK ROCK
An odvious choice, Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach is an absolute MUST SEE. One has not been to Cannon Beach without seeing THE ROCK. It will take your breath not once, but everytime you see it. 235′ tall, this rock is well-known not just for it’s size. Haystack Rock can be spotted in some popular movies too. Does anyone remember The Goonies or Kindergarten Cop? Like I said, Haystack Rock is famous. If you have not seen it while visiting Cannon Beach, have you even really been?
VISITORS TIP: if you go see Haystack Rock upclose when the tide it out the tidal pools around the rock are amazing!
DO: THE PROMENADE
The Promdenade at Seaside is something you must do when visiting Cannon Beach. Located between Avenue U and 12th Avenue, the 1.5 mile long stretch is the perfect little family stroll along the Pacific Ocean. We walked the Promenade almost daily during our visit, with so much to see, no stroll was ever the same. Ocean views (and sounds) and local entertainment from musicians to bubble blowers (check out our Portland highlights) this will sure to please every walker, young and old.
DO: SEASIDE STRIP (BROADWAY STREET)
From shops to restaurants to a carousel in a mall, an upsidedown photobooth and a digital shooting range. You guys, Broadway street in Seaside does not disapoint. Located only a 13-min drive from Cannon Beach, Seaside is the perfect family vacation spot that gives you beach days combined with indoor fun. We walked Broadway street on the 2nd day of our stay and we got only done 1/2 of what we wanted. We played at Funland Seaside Arcade, we loaded up on all things sugar at Schwieterts Cones & Candy, we tested our aim at the Seaside Shootout and sat down for a bite to eat at Dundee’s Bar & Grill. It was a good day!
SEE: ELK SPOTTING
We were lucky enough to stumble upon a field of Elk one evening. The story is actually quite commical. Sammy had thought he was seeing things, and with my head burried in my Instagram feed, I looked up to this magical view.
Not knowing that Cannon Beach is known for this, we were both very much taken back. ELK EVERYWHERE. After a bit of research we realized it’s one of the spots that people flawk to in hopes to spot them. Located just outside of the Cannon Beach RV Resort, this little grassy field along Elk Creek Road and Highway 101 Sunset Boulevard was home to what looked like 20 to 30 Roosevelt Elk that evening. If you can make time for it within your stay I highly recommend it. It’s a beautiful sight.
VISITOR TIP: I found this great little site that helps with the best times and places to spot these guys all over Cannon Beach.
DO: SEASIDE INVERTED
Remember when I said we saw an upsidedown photobooth, this is what I meant. Seaside Inverted is an upside-down photo studio located on Broadway street in Seaside. They take YOUR camera and photograph you in different scenes, that when “flipped” look hilarious! It can only take 15-min if you’re in a rush, but goodness me what you leave with is priceless and hilarious. The photos makes me laugh probably more than they should.
DO: BEACHCOMB FOR SAND DOLLARS
One of our new favorite passtimes; beachcombing for Sand Dollars on Cannon Beach is as excitig as playing the lotto. We spent one early morning and one evening at sunset looking for Sand Dollars as a family. Not as easy as one may think to find a WHOLE Sand Dollar, but we’re happy to report we left with 2 beautiful ones and loads and loads of memories. You don’t really know how amazing chasing the waves are until you’re there. Do yourselves a favor and make sure you put time into beachcombing.
With all these things you must see in Cannon Beach, I suggest you stay longer than 3-day like we did. To really enjoy what Cannon Beach and Seaside have to offer, give it your time. The entire trip along the Oregon Coast was just so beautiful, our families favorite road trip to date.
Any questions about planning your own trip, please don’t ever hesitate to ask. Believe it or not I love planning family vacations, even when they’re not mine.
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