Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is widely considered the crown jewel of the Oregon Coast — a 4-mile stretch of dark sand framed by sea stacks, tide pools, and the charming Victorian beach town that inspired countless painters and photographers. The beach's defining landmark is Haystack Rock, a 235-foot (72 m) sea stack rising dramatically from the surf line, one of the largest intertidal structures in the world and a designated Marine Garden protecting a remarkable community of starfish, anemones, hermit crabs, and nesting tufted puffins.

The beach itself stretches north and south of town, offering wide open space for long walks even in peak summer. The Pacific here is cold and powerful — Oregon's coastline sees some of the continent's most dramatic wave action, with "sneaker waves" a genuine hazard requiring vigilance near the water's edge. Swimming is not recommended, but wading, beachcombing, and watching the immense power of the Pacific is an experience unmatched on the US coast.

The town of Cannon Beach is a model of small-scale coastal character — galleries, boutique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and cozy inns lining walkable streets. The Coaster Theatre presents live performances year-round. The famous Sandcastle Contest held each June draws thousands of visitors and world-class sand sculptors. In autumn and winter, the beach takes on a moody, cinematic quality that has made it a subject of American art for generations.