This website contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
Cannon Beach feels easy in the best way. It is close enough to get to without effort, but once you are there, it feels like you have fully stepped away from everything. It is quiet, walkable, and incredibly dog friendly, which is really all we need to be convinced.
Staying at Surfsand Resort elevated the entire experience. They are not just dog friendly; they are dog enthusiastic! Tilly had her own setup waiting for her, while we got the luxury of fireplaces, ocean views, and a soaking tub that made it very hard to be productive in any way.
The beach is what makes Cannon Beach special. Walking out toward Haystack Rock during low tide, seeing the tide pools, watching the wildlife, and letting your dog run freely while still keeping an eye on them creates that perfect mix of calm and activity.
It also keeps you on your toes. Between sneaker waves and the realization that elk casually roam through town, it is a place that gently reminds you that nature is still in charge.
When the rain came in on day two, everything slowed down even more. We ate breakfast at Pig N’ Pancake then wandered through shops, explored galleries, and spent time in Seaside before returning to Cannon Beach. Seaside is a cute little town about 10 minutes from Cannon Beach and is where they filmed “The Goonies.” The town absolutely leans into this and since it’s one of Kira’s favorite movies, she was able to find the best souvenir. We stopped in to Beach Bum Designs and we were able to have a great conversation with the owner about his laser cut magnets and his love of The Goonies. Tilly was also fully in her element, getting attention everywhere we went and collecting treats like she had earned them.
The best part of Cannon Beach is that it does not require a packed schedule. It is just as good when you are doing nothing as it is when you are out exploring. Sitting by the fireplace, ordering room service, and watching bad TV with your dog curled up next to you somehow feels just as valuable as anything else you could do.
Stay tuned for more adventures on our Oregon Coast Road Trip. You can read about our full 5 day itinerary here.
** Written by Emily **
