Cannon Beach Romantic Getaway: The Perfect Escape for Couples
Cannon Beach is one of my favorite spots on earth. So when it was time to plan an anniversary getaway, it made for the perfect destination to spend a romantic weekend on the Oregon Coast.
With its stunning coastline and picturesque small town, it offers an ideal setting for relaxing getaway. Stroll along the beach hand in hand, watch the sun set over the ocean, or snuggle in front of a fire with your loved one.
What to Do in Cannon Beach for Couples
Long Walks on the Beach-Literally
Yes, its a romantic cliche, but the star of Cannon Beach really is the beach itself. Swaths of sand stretch for a couple miles from Ecola State Park north of town, to just south of Tolovana Park.
Catch the beach at either end and stroll to the other end. The beach is nice and wide, especially when the tide is out so it will feel like you have the beach to yourself.
If the beach is the star, the most recognizable celebrity is the iconic Haystack Rock. There are a few rocks rising from the waters, but none as large and majestic as Haystack. No matter where you are on the beach, it can be seen.
Technically it’s a sea stack. Can you guess why it’s called Haystack?
Interesting fact: At 235 ft. tall, it’s the third tallest sea stack in the world. Source
When the tide is out, you can get fairly close to Haystack, but is is a protected marine preserve so you can’t climb onto the rocks itself.
The good news is you can witness several tide pools surrounding the rocks with colorful urchins and starfish. Bring your binoculars to get close up views of the birds that make the rock their home.
Two of the most romantic times to be strolling the beach is at sunrise and sunset.
As the night falls, light up a cozy fire on the beach and immerse yourself in the warmth of each others company while gazing at the stars above. Several hotels offer campfire bundles for purchase.
Browse the shops and Galleries
Cannon Beach has a charming small town vibe, ideal for couples seeking a quieter, more intimate escape.
The town has a lot of quaint shops and art galleries, and tends to attract fewer families than neighboring Seaside.
Cannon Beach is split into two parts, the main town to the north, and the Tolovana area to the south. While there are more beachside hotels near Tolovana (and Haystack Rock), most of the shops and restaurants are in the main part of town.
It is possible to walk from one section to another if you take a, um, long walk on the beach. The road winds through a narrow hilly area so it’s best to drive between town and Tolovana if you aren’t taking the beach.
Visit Ecola State Park
For a peaceful excursion, head up to Ecola State Park for spectacular views of the coastline. Hike through the forest and immerse yourself in the peace of nature.
Ecola State Park is a short drive from town. The road is a little narrow in places, so not suitable for an oversized vehicle.
Get Pampered at a Spa
For a special romantic weekend consider indulging in some pampering for two. Cannon Beach offers numerous spas and wellness centers that provide couples massages, allowing you to unwind together.
In addition to massages, treat yourselves to other treatments such as facials, body scrubs, and hydrotherapy sessions to rejuvenate both your mind and body.
Where to Eat & Drink
Disclaimer: All restaurants and lodging information is accurate at the time of publication. Cascadia Traveler is not responsible for changes made by businesses listed in this post.
Farm-to-Table Dining and Northwest Seafood
For a small town, there is a nice array of farm-to-table dining options where you can savor fresh Northwest seafood. You’ll find several chef-owned restaurants offering inspired dishes that highlight the best of the region’s bountiful ingredients.
- The Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge: Overlooking the scenic Cannon Beach, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and a great wine list. The beachfront dining experience adds an extra layer of romance to your meal.
- Newman’s at 988: This charming restaurant offers French-Italian cuisine with a focus on the Piedmont and Genoa areas of Italy. It’s a great place for an intimate dinner.
- Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge: A Cannon Beach staple since 1944, Driftwood offers fresh, locally-sourced dishes in a cozy and more casual setting.
- Castaways Globally Inspired Cuisine: If you and your partner enjoy trying different cuisines, this is the place to go. Castaways offers a mix of Caribbean and Cajun dishes, among others.
Sip on Northwestern Wines
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the finest Northwestern wines during your stay in Cannon Beach. Many restaurants feature selections from local vineyards and wineries. Be sure to try an Oregon Pinot Noir, one the nearby Willamette Valley’s most famous exports.
Where to Stay in Cannon Beach
Romantic Oceanfront Lodging
Cannon Beach is well-known for its romantic, oceanfront accommodations perfect for couples. Yet, true oceanfront lodging is relatively scarce.
The two most romantic oceanfront resorts are the Ocean Lodge and Stephanie Inn. They are next door neighbors, and also two of the priciest options.
The Ocean Lodge has 45 oceanfront rooms with views of Haystack Rock. Rooms include fireplaces, and you can snuggle in the provided robe and slippers.
Next door is the Stephanie Inn. Some friends who stayed here once called it the most romantic place they had ever stayed in. The inn was remodeled in 2023. There is an onsite spa and dining room. The inn’s policies include that any children must be 12 and older.
Both of these inn’s are at the southern end of town. To access the in town restaurants you’ll need to drive or talk a long walk on the beach.
Looking for a comfortable home away from home? Schooner’s Cove Inn provides spacious suites complete with fireplaces, ocean views, and kitchenettes with stovetops where you can prepare some of your own meals.
You’ll appreciate the balcony views and being steps away from the beach. You are also easy walking distance to downtown Cannon Beach. We’ve stayed here twice and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Hallmark Resort & Spa. This is where we ended up booking our stay. Oceanfront rooms overlook Haystack Rock, and they have an onsite spa, pool and sauna. Rooms are still upscale in price, but not as steep as the Stephanie and Ocean Lodge. The Hallmark is walking distance to town so you can leave your car parked.
Cozy Cottages and Resorts
A block from the ocean, The Inn at Cannon Beach offers lovely rooms in a garden setting. Rooms have fireplaces and include a breakfast buffet.
If you prefer a more intimate setting, consider staying in one of Cannon Beach’s cozy cottages. These charming accommodations provide a quaint, seaside atmosphere and often come with attractive features like kitchens, fireplaces, and patios for outdoor dining.
Upgrade Your Romantic Weekend
Classic Beach Fire with Candlelit Dinner
When booking your stay, be sure to check for specials and packages. Many hotels in Cannon Beach offer romance packages, which often include roses, champagne, and delicious dining options for an unforgettable evening.
If you prefer to DIY it, there are a couple of wine shops in town where you can pick up a bottle of bubbles. Some hotels as well as the grocery store (Mariner Market) sell firewood.
Add On Spa and Massage Services
A couple of hotels have onsite spas, like the Stephanie Inn and Hallmark Resort. There is also the Cannon Beach Spa and Ocean Spa in downtown Cannon Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Best time of year To Visit Cannon Beach?
Cannon Beach is beautiful throughout the year, but late spring through early fall are ideal times to visit if you want to spend time outside, as the temperatures are warmer and there is (usually) less rain.
The Oregon Coast can be windy and cool at any time of year. Expect morning fog in the summer months, which usually clears by afternoon.
However, keep in mind that these peak seasons can also be more crowded, so booking accommodations in advance is recommended. Expect prices to be at a premium during the summer and especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
If you have an oceanfront room and a fireplace, it can be romantic to storm watch from your room in the fall and winter months.
Cannon Beach vs Seaside: which is better for a romantic trip?
Both Cannon Beach and Seaside are lovely coastal destinations in Oregon, but Cannon Beach stands out as my preference for a romantic getaway. The scenery is more rugged and the town is a bit more tranquil.
Seaside, on the other hand, is more focused on family-friendly attractions and activities. With a hotel lined promenade, arcade, and family friendly activities, Seaside feels more like an old-fashioned seaside resort complete with salt water taffy.
For a more intimate and memorable weekend, Cannon Beach is the way to go. However, if you are on a budget, you will have a much better chance of finding a reasonably priced ocean front room in Seaside.
What Else is there to Do Near Cannon Beach?
Cannon Beach’s unique charm lies in its combination of natural beauty, art, and history. The surrounding area has plenty to explore too.
If you just have just the weekend, stick close to Cannon Beach. If you have an extra day or two, here are some ideas:
A short drive to the south is Tillamook, home of the famous cheese (and ice cream) factory. Take a tour, sample the cheese, and buy a cone. Just a little bit further down Hwy 101 is Blue Heron French Cheese factory. The gift shop here is a personal favorite. Pick up some wine and brie to enjoy in your room later.
Just 7 miles to the north is Seaside. This has a different vibe from Cannon Beach, but you will find a lot more going on here. If you like to shop, you’ll find more variety here. If you like to walk along the beach (instead of on it–hey, it is quite a calf workout to walk in sand for miles) there is a promenade all along the beach here perfect for strolling.
If you visit during fair weather, check out the golf course north of Seaside at Gearhart (one of the oldest courses on the coast). Then, pop into one of the bars/pubs at McMenamins for a pint.
McMenamins has several properties in Oregon and Washington, where they purchase old historic properties (like schoolhouses) and turn them into inns and restaurants, so a uniquely northwestern experience.
Portland is about 90 minutes away from Cannon Beach. If you are a book lover, take a day trip and visit Powell’s, one of the largest independent booksellers in the country.
Just southwest of Portland is the Willamette Valley, famous for its Pinot Noirs (and other wines). The wine region here is composed of gently rolling green hills and this still has a more laid back, agricultural vibe than a Napa or Sonoma. This is another easy day trip from Cannon Beach.
If beer is more your thing, the Pelican Brewery has a pub in Cannon Beach, or visit the main taproom and brewery is in nearby Tillamook where you can overlook the magic happening.