Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a road trip from Portland to Cannon Beach. This scenic journey along the Oregon coast offers breathtaking views and exciting stops along the way. The route from Portland to Cannon Beach covers approximately 80 miles and can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
For road trippers looking to make the most of their journey, there are several top stops to consider along the route. Start your trip by exploring the vibrant city of Portland, known for its eclectic food scene and lush green spaces. As you head west towards the coast, consider making a pit stop at the charming town of Astoria, where you can visit the iconic Astoria Column and enjoy stunning views of the Columbia River.
Further along the route, nature enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Ecola State Park, offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline and opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. Finally, arrive at the picturesque Cannon Beach, famous for its iconic Haystack Rock and pristine sandy shores.
While traffic can vary, especially during peak travel times, the journey from Portland to Cannon Beach is generally smooth and scenic. Be sure to check for any road closures or construction updates before setting out on your adventure. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick getaway or a visitor exploring the beauty of the Oregon coast, the Portland to Cannon Beach road trip promises an enriching and memorable experience.
Tillamook Creamery
Essential Information
– Route options: Easily accessible from Portland to Cannon Beach route.
– Opening hours: Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm.
– Fee: Free admission, optional paid tours available.
– Visit duration: 1-2 hours.
– Ideal for: Families, foodies, cheese enthusiasts.
Why is it a must stop
Tillamook Creamery is a must-stop on your road trip for a taste of authentic Oregon dairy culture. Explore the interactive exhibits to learn about the cheese-making process and the history of Tillamook. Sample a variety of award-winning cheeses, from sharp cheddars to creamy bries, all made with locally sourced milk. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the cheese-makers in action, crafting each block with precision and care.
After indulging in cheese tastings, head to the ice cream counter for a scoop of their famous Tillamook ice cream, available in a range of flavors to satisfy any sweet tooth. For a more immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour to gain insight into the craftsmanship behind Tillamook’s renowned dairy products.
Before you leave, make sure to browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs and delicious treats to take home. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or simply looking for a fun and tasty pit stop on your journey, Tillamook Creamery offers a delightful break from the road with a true taste of Oregon’s dairy heritage.
Cape Meares State Park
Essential Information
– Route Options: Take the scenic route from Portland to Cannon Beach via US-26 W and US-101 N.
– Opening Hours: Daily from sunrise to sunset.
– Fee: $5 day-use parking fee.
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.
– Ideal For: Nature lovers, hikers, and bird watchers.
Why is it a must stop
Cape Meares State Park is a must-stop on your road trip for its stunning natural beauty and unique attractions. The park offers a variety of activities that are perfect for a quick stop along your journey. Explore the iconic Cape Meares Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Oregon, and enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline. Take a leisurely stroll along the Cape Meares Loop Trail, which winds through old-growth forest and offers glimpses of local wildlife. Bird watchers will delight in the opportunity to spot various seabirds and shorebirds along the cliffs. Don’t miss the famous Octopus Tree, a unique Sitka spruce with twisted branches that create a fascinating sight. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature walk or a quick photo stop, Cape Meares State Park has something for every traveler passing through on their road trip adventure.
Oswald West State Park
Essential Information
– Route options: Take US-26 W from Portland to Cannon Beach
– Opening hours: 7 am to 10 pm
– Fee: $5 day-use parking fee
– Visit duration: Half-day to full-day trip
– Ideal for: Hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers, beachgoers
Why is it a must stop
Oswald West State Park is a must-stop on your road trip from Portland to Cannon Beach for its stunning coastal scenery and outdoor activities. The park offers a variety of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the network of trails that wind through lush forests and lead to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean. One of the most popular hikes is the Short Sand Beach Trail, which takes you to a secluded cove with tide pools and a picturesque sandy beach.
For those looking to relax by the water, Oswald West State Park boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Short Sand Beach, also known as Smuggler’s Cove, is a favorite spot for surfers due to its consistent waves. Visitors can watch surfers ride the waves or even try their hand at surfing with equipment available for rent nearby.
Nature lovers will be delighted by the park’s diverse wildlife and pristine coastal habitats. Keep an eye out for seabirds, tide pool creatures, and maybe even a glimpse of a migrating whale offshore. The park is also home to old-growth forests filled with towering trees and vibrant greenery, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Oswald West State Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation that makes it a must-visit destination on your road trip along the Oregon coast.
Hug Point State Recreation Site
Essential Information
– Route Options: From Portland to Cannon Beach
– Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
– Fee: $5 day-use parking fee
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, beach enthusiasts
Why is it a must stop
When embarking on a road trip from Portland to Cannon Beach, make sure to include a stop at the charming Hug Point State Recreation Site. This hidden gem along the Oregon coast offers a variety of activities that make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique coastal experience.
Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shoreline and explore the intriguing sea caves and tide pools that dot the landscape. Discover the remnants of an old stagecoach road that once hugged the cliffs, adding a touch of history to your beach adventure.
For those looking to relax and unwind, find a cozy spot on the beach to enjoy a picnic while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves. Capture stunning coastal views and snap memorable photos of the picturesque scenery that surrounds you.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse wildlife that calls Hug Point home, from seabirds soaring overhead to marine life thriving in the tide pools. Keep an eye out for starfish, anemones, and other fascinating creatures that inhabit this coastal ecosystem.
Before continuing your journey to Cannon Beach, don’t forget to explore the waterfall that cascades onto the beach during the rainy season, adding a touch of natural beauty to your visit. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a scenic spot to stretch your legs, Hug Point State Recreation Site offers something for every traveler passing through on their road trip along the Oregon coast.
Ecola State Park
Essential Information
– Route options: Take US-26 W and US-101 N from Portland to Cannon Beach
– Opening hours: 7 am to 10 pm daily
– Fee: $5 day-use parking fee
– Visit duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers
Why is it a must stop
Ecola State Park is a must-stop on your road trip for its stunning coastal views and outdoor activities. The park offers a variety of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the numerous trails that wind through lush forests and lead to breathtaking overlooks of the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the iconic viewpoints like Indian Beach and Crescent Beach, perfect for capturing memorable photos of the rugged coastline.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Ecola State Park provides picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by the beauty of nature. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the diverse avian species that call the park home, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
If you’re looking to add a bit of adventure to your road trip, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastal waters or try your hand at surfing at one of the nearby beaches. Ecola State Park truly offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination on your journey from Portland to Cannon Beach.
Haystack Rock
Essential Information
– Route options: Take US-26 W from Portland to Cannon Beach
– Opening hours: Open 24/7
– Fee: Free to visit
– Visit duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, families
Why is it a must stop
Haystack Rock is a must-stop on your road trip from Portland to Cannon Beach for its stunning natural beauty and unique coastal experience. Towering 235 feet above the sandy shoreline, this iconic sea stack offers a picturesque backdrop for your travel memories.
Visitors can explore the tide pools teeming with colorful marine life, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Capture breathtaking photos of the rock against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, a sight that will surely impress your social media followers.
For those seeking adventure, consider birdwatching opportunities as you spot various seabirds soaring above the rock. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this natural wonder.
Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or simply looking for a scenic stop on your road trip, Haystack Rock offers a memorable experience that showcases the beauty of the Oregon coast.
Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site
Essential Information
– Route Options: From Portland to Cannon Beach
– Opening Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
– Fee: $5 day-use parking fee
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, beach lovers, nature enthusiasts
Why is it a must stop
Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site is a must-stop on your road trip from Portland to Cannon Beach for its pristine sandy shores and stunning ocean views. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, collecting seashells and watching the waves crash against the shore. The site is perfect for picnics, with plenty of picnic tables available for a relaxing meal with a view. For those seeking adventure, Tolovana Beach offers excellent opportunities for beachcombing and tidepooling, allowing you to discover unique marine life up close. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean, creating unforgettable memories of your road trip along the Oregon coast.
Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site
Essential Information
– Route Options: Take US-26 W from Portland to US-101 N towards Cannon Beach.
– Opening Hours: Daily from sunrise to sunset.
– Fee: Day-use parking fee required.
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.
– Ideal For: Beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and road trippers.
Why is it a must stop
Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site is a must-stop on your road trip for its stunning coastal views and unique rock formations. Spend your time exploring tide pools teeming with marine life or strolling along the sandy shores. Capture Instagram-worthy photos of the iconic sea stacks rising from the ocean, a sight that epitomizes the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast.
For the adventurous, try your hand at surfing or kite flying in the brisk ocean breeze. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting a variety of seabirds soaring overhead or perched along the cliffs. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal with a backdrop of crashing waves and panoramic ocean vistas.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a magical glow over the beach. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or simply a peaceful retreat by the sea, Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site offers a memorable stop on your road trip along the Oregon coast.
Cannon Beach History Center and Museum
Essential Information
– Route options: Take US-26 W from Portland to Cannon Beach
– Opening hours: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Closed on Mondays
– Fee: $5 for adults, $2 for children
– Visit duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts and families
Why is it a must stop
When embarking on a road trip from Portland to Cannon Beach, a visit to the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum is a must for history buffs and families alike. The museum offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region, showcasing exhibits that highlight the area’s maritime history, Native American culture, and early settlers’ stories.
Visitors can explore artifacts from shipwrecks, learn about the local flora and fauna, and discover the impact of Lewis and Clark’s expedition on the area. Interactive displays engage guests of all ages, making it an educational and entertaining stop on your road trip.
Additionally, the museum hosts special events and programs throughout the year, providing a deeper dive into the history and culture of Cannon Beach. Whether you’re interested in maritime history, local lore, or simply looking for a unique stop along your journey, the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past that is sure to enrich your road trip experience.
Chapman Point
Essential Information
– Route Options: From Portland to Cannon Beach
– Opening Hours: 24/7
– Fee: Free
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Scenic views, photography enthusiasts
Why is it a must stop
Chapman Point is a must-stop on your road trip from Portland to Cannon Beach for its breathtaking coastal views and unique rock formations. As you stand on the rugged cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you’ll be mesmerized by the crashing waves and the dramatic scenery. This spot is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the Oregon coast.
Take a leisurely stroll along the cliffside trail and soak in the fresh ocean breeze while admiring the panoramic vistas. Keep an eye out for seabirds soaring overhead and maybe even spot a whale breaching in the distance. The natural beauty of Chapman Point is truly awe-inspiring and will leave you feeling connected to the raw power of the ocean.
For those seeking adventure, explore the tide pools at low tide and discover a world teeming with marine life. From colorful sea stars to scurrying hermit crabs, the tide pools offer a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of the Oregon coast. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars to get a closer look at the seabirds nesting on the cliffs and the occasional seal basking in the sun on the rocks below.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the Oregon coast, Chapman Point is a must-stop destination on your road trip. So pack your camera, lace up your hiking shoes, and get ready to experience the natural wonders of this stunning coastal gem.
