Your Day Trip at a Glance: Quick Facts
| Quick Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Driving Distance | ~80 miles (129 km) from Portland |
| Average Drive Time | 1.5 – 2 hours (one way, without traffic) |
| Public Transport? | Yes, the NW POINT Bus service is available. |
| Best Time to Visit | Summer (June-August) for sun; Fall/Spring for fewer crowds. |
| Estimated Day Trip Cost | $50 – $150 per person |
How to Get From Portland to Cannon Beach
Figuring out how to get from Portland to Cannon Beach is the first step in your adventure. Luckily, you have a couple of great options. Whether you crave the freedom of the open road or prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery, the journey is straightforward and part of the fun.
| Method | Time | Cost (One-Way) | Pros |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 1.5 – 2.5+ hours | ~$10-15 in gas | Flexible, can explore nearby parks easily. |
| Bus (NW POINT) | ~2 hours 15 mins | ~$30 per person | Relaxing, no parking stress. |
Driving from Portland to Cannon Beach
The classic Oregon road trip! The primary route is US-26 West, a journey that takes you from the city through the lush Tillamook State Forest and out to the coast. The driving distance from Portland to Cannon Beach is approximately 80 miles. Wondering how long is the drive from Portland to Cannon Beach? Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours, but be warned: on a sunny summer weekend, traffic can easily push that to 2.5 hours or more.
A CRITICAL NOTE ON PARKING: Parking in Cannon Beach is notoriously difficult, especially in summer. Public lots and street spots fill up by 10 AM. Our best advice? Leave Portland early to snag a spot and enjoy a less-crowded beach.
Taking Public Transport from Portland
Yes, is there a public transport from Portland to Cannon Beach? Absolutely! The NW POINT bus service, operated by the Oregon Department of Transportation, offers a comfortable and scenic ride from Portland’s Union Station directly to Cannon Beach. The trip takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, with a one-way adult fare costing about $30. It’s the perfect option if you want to avoid driving and the hassle of parking. Always check their official website for the most current 2025 schedules and fares.
Is There a Train from Portland to Cannon Beach?
This is a common question, and the answer is simple: No, there is no direct passenger train service from Portland to Cannon Beach. While Amtrak serves other parts of the region, the coastline here is best accessed by car or the dedicated bus service. So, for now, your best bets remain hitting the road yourself or hopping on the NW POINT bus.
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Cannon Beach Day Trip
With its dramatic coastline and charming town, Cannon Beach packs a lot of beauty into a small area. Here are the five must-do activities to make your day trip unforgettable.
- Marvel at Haystack Rock: This 235-foot sea stack is the star of the show. At low tide, a world of vibrant tide pools emerges around its base, protected as a Marine Garden. Look for colorful sea stars and anemones, and listen for the calls of seabirds. From early April to early July, you might even spot the adorable Tufted Puffins that nest on the rock. Volunteers from the Haystack Rock Awareness Program are often on-site to answer questions.
- Soak in the Views from Ecola State Park: Just a short drive north of town, this park offers what is arguably the most famous viewpoint on the Oregon Coast. From the main lookout, you’ll see a breathtaking panorama of Crescent Beach, Cannon Beach, and Haystack Rock in the distance. It’s a scene straight out of The Goonies (which was filmed here!). A $5 day-use vehicle permit is required, and it’s worth every penny.
- Wander Through Downtown Cannon Beach: Leave the sand behind for an hour or two and explore the town’s charming, walkable streets. Lined with cedar-shingled cottages, the village is filled with unique art galleries showcasing local talent, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir or simply enjoy the relaxed, artsy vibe.
- Explore at Low Tide at Hug Point State Park: A few miles south of Cannon Beach lies a hidden gem. At low tide, you can walk around the rocky point to discover sea caves, a seasonal waterfall cascading onto the beach, and the original stagecoach road that was carved into the rock. Safety is key here: you must explore this area on a falling tide to avoid being trapped by the incoming water. Always check the tide chart!
- Hike to Short Sand Beach (Oswald West State Park): For a taste of the lush coastal rainforest, head to Oswald West State Park. A beautiful, easy half-mile trail winds through a forest of massive old-growth Sitka spruce and western red cedar, opening up to a stunning, sheltered cove. Known as “Shorty’s” to locals, this beach is a favorite spot for surfers and families looking for a secluded escape.
A Sample 1-Day Itinerary (Time-Based Schedule)
Use this flexible itinerary as a starting point for your perfect day. Important: This schedule is built around a hypothetical morning low tide. Always check the official 2025 tide chart for Cannon Beach and adjust your plan accordingly!
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Leave Portland. Grab coffee and snacks for the road. |
| 10:00 AM | Arrive in Cannon Beach. Park the car and head straight to explore Haystack Rock and its tide pools during low tide. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch in Town. Grab a casual bite or sit down for a relaxing meal. |
| 2:00 PM | Browse the art galleries and unique shops in the charming downtown village. |
| 3:30 PM | Take the short drive to Ecola State Park for those postcard-perfect clifftop views. |
| 5:30 PM | Begin the scenic drive back to Portland, filled with coastal memories. |
Where to Eat in Cannon Beach (With Price Ranges)
From quick bites to fine dining, Cannon Beach’s food scene has something for every palate and budget.
Budget-Friendly ($)
Perfect for a quick and tasty refuel. Try the famous scones at Cannon Beach Bakery or grab a delicious slice at Pizza a’ Fetta.
Mid-Range ($$)
Great for a sit-down meal without breaking the bank. Check out Bill’s Tavern & Brewhouse for classic pub fare and local brews, or enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere at Public Coast Brewing Co.
A Special Treat ($$$)
Ideal for a memorable occasion. The Wayfarer Restaurant offers stunning oceanfront views and classic coastal cuisine, while Newmans at 988 serves incredible French-Italian dishes in an intimate setting.
Insider Tips for a Perfect Day Trip
- Check the Tide Chart Above All Else: Your ability to explore tide pools at Haystack Rock and walk around Hug Point is entirely dependent on low tide. Plan your day around it!
- Arrive Before 10 AM: This is not a suggestion, it’s a necessity on busy days. You’ll get a prime parking spot and enjoy the beach before the biggest crowds arrive.
- Dress in Layers: The Oregon Coast weather is famously fickle. A sunny morning can turn into a misty, windy afternoon in minutes. A rain jacket is a non-negotiable item, even if the forecast looks clear.
- Respect the Wildlife: The area around Haystack Rock is a protected Marine Garden. Look with your eyes, not your hands. Never remove shells, rocks, or living creatures from the tide pools.
- Beware of Sneaker Waves: Never, ever turn your back on the ocean. Unexpectedly large waves can rush up the shore and are extremely dangerous.
- Limited Cell Service: In the state parks and more remote beach areas, cell service can be spotty. It’s a good idea to download Google Maps of the area offline.
What to Pack for the Oregon Coast
Packing smart will make your day trip much more comfortable. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Rain jacket / Windbreaker (the most important item!)
- Fleece or a warm sweater for layering
- Comfortable, sturdy shoes (waterproof is a huge bonus)
- Camera and/or binoculars, especially for spotting puffins
- A reusable water bottle and some road-trip snacks
- Sunscreen and sunglasses — the sun reflecting off the water can be intense
- A small backpack to carry it all
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Here’s a look at what you can expect to spend per person for your day trip.
| Item | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas) | $20 | $30 |
| Food (Lunch & Snacks) | $25 | $70 |
| Activities (Park Fee) | $5 | $5 |
| Souvenirs/Coffee | $0 | $25 |
| TOTAL PER PERSON | ~$50 | ~$130 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is nicer, Cannon Beach or Seaside?
It really depends on your travel style! Think of Cannon Beach as the artsy, scenic, and more upscale choice, perfect for romantic walks and gallery hopping. Seaside is the classic, family-friendly beach town with a boardwalk, an arcade, and more traditional tourist attractions. Both are fantastic, just with different vibes.
Is there a public transport from Portland to Cannon Beach?
Yes, there is. The NW POINT bus service runs daily from Union Station in Portland directly to Cannon Beach. It’s an affordable and convenient option, especially for travelers without a car who want to avoid parking hassles.
What is the best beach near Portland, Oregon?
While “best” is subjective, Cannon Beach is often considered one of the most iconic and beautiful beaches near Portland due to the dramatic Haystack Rock. Other fantastic choices include the lively town of Seaside and the quieter, more relaxed atmosphere of Manzanita, just south of Cannon Beach.
Is it worth it to go to Cannon Beach?
Absolutely, 100% yes! The combination of stunning natural beauty, a world-famous landmark in Haystack Rock, incredible tide pooling, a charming art-filled town, and easy accessibility from Portland makes a Portland to Cannon Beach day trip one of the most rewarding experiences in Oregon.
