After two amazing days soaking in Portland’s charm (Day 1’s gardens and parks) and (Day 2’s waterfall adventure), it was time to trade forest trails for ocean breeze. On Day 3, we set out on a scenic day trip to Cannon Beach from Portland, craving coastal views, sea air, and that iconic Pacific Northwest shoreline.
With a late-morning start, we made our way to the coast, explored the charming beach town, and nearby Ecola State Park. We returned the same day by evening to enjoy a laid-back stroll through downtown Portland.
The Scenic Drive to Cannon Beach
We left our Portland hotel around 9:30 AM, coffee in hand and road trip playlist ready. The drive to Cannon Beach takes 2.5 to 3 hours, with scenery that makes the trip part of the experience. Forests, rivers, misty hills, it felt like every mile took us deeper into the Pacific Northwest’s signature mood: wild, peaceful, and a little mystical.
We arrived in Cannon Beach just after 12:30 PM, with the sun peeking through the coastal haze and the salty breeze welcoming us to one of Oregon’s most iconic shorelines.
Cannon Beach: Haystack Rock & Coastal Vibes
Cannon Beach was exactly how I imagined it and even more beautiful in person. Stretching out before us was a wide expanse of sand, moody blue waves, and the massive Haystack Rock rising proudly from the shoreline like a sentinel of the sea.
We spent an hour walking barefoot as the cold Pacific water lapped our feet. Low tide let us get close to Haystack Rock and explore tidepools with colorful sea anemones and tiny crabs.
📸 Photo Tip: Visit during low tide for the best tidepool views and a closer walk to Haystack Rock. Mornings and golden hour also give you the softest lighting for pictures.
We grabbed a light lunch from a nearby shop; there are plenty of cozy cafés and seafood spots in town. The beach itself is dog-friendly, wide open, and perfect for a slow afternoon stroll or just sitting and watching the waves roll in.
Ecola State Park: Cliffside Views & Coastal Trails
Next, we drove a few minutes north to Ecola State Park, one of the most scenic spots on the Oregon coast. The winding road felt like a movie set, with dense forest, mossy trees, and ocean views at every turn.
We paid a small entry fee (around $5 per vehicle) and headed to Ecola Point. From there, we took in sweeping views of Crescent Beach, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse in the distance, and more dramatic coastline that stretched endlessly to the north and south.
There are a few short hikes, but we chose to sit on a bench facing the Pacific. Cool air, crashing waves, and time felt slower.
🥾 Tip: Trails here can get muddy, so bring sturdy shoes. Cell signal is weak; download offline maps in advance.
Back to Portland: Downtown Exploration
We left the coast around 4:30 PM and were back in Portland by 7 PM, just in time to explore a bit of downtown before calling it a night. After three nature-filled days, the buzz of the city felt both energizing and familiar.
We walked through the Pearl District, browsed a few local shops, and grabbed dinner at a lively gastropub. Portland at night has its own kind of magic, warm lights, good food, and locals who genuinely love their city.
💡 Travel Tips
- Leave early to make the most of your coastal trip
- Check tide charts for the best Cannon Beach experience
- Bring layers, Oregon coast weather changes quickly (glad I was carrying a hoodie)
- Carry snacks and water if you plan to hike in Ecola State Park
- Fuel up before the return drive (limited gas stops along the way)
There’s something about the ocean that clears your mind. Our day trip to Cannon Beach from Portland reminded me how powerful nature can be. A quiet walk, a cliffside view, and crashing waves made it a grounding experience. Oregon’s coastline isn’t just beautiful, it’s deeply humbling.
Ready for the final chapter? Day 4 brings us to Trillium Lake and Mount Hood, a postcard-perfect view and a peaceful end to the trip. Stay tuned for that post soon!
