For more than two decades, the Cannon Beach Cottage Tour has been sharing the rich stories of Cannon Beach. This annual fundraiser benefitting the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum provides a rare glimpse into the lives and residences of the people who have called this special place home over the years.
Photos by Emily Molina
Since its establishment in 2003, the popular event has given tour-goers a unique opportunity to explore not only some of the town’s most historic properties and gardens but also some of the grandest beach homes and extraordinary architecture that grace its distinctive coastline.
Although the weekend festivities have evolved over the years, the cottage tour, which takes place on Saturday, has remained largely unchanged. Alternating annually between neighborhoods, various homes and buildings in Cannon Beach and sometimes beyond are showcased.
Photos by Emily Molina
From midtown to downtown, Tolovana, the Presidential streets, and every quaint lane and thoroughfare that make up the charming seaside town, many are constructed of the same material as its famous rock formations: basalt.
This year's theme, ‘charming cottages built over 80 years ago,’ harkened back to a time when there was very little development in the area, and obtaining building supplies was equally as challenging as getting to Cannon Beach itself.
It’s hard to imagine when such houses were the only structures sparsely scattering the unspoiled stretch of coastline among the spruce trees.
Photos by Emily Molina
The 2024 tour featured ten homes and one church primarily located on the Presidential streets such as Washington, Adams, Madison, Jackson, and Monroe Streets. Some of the homes have stood for a century, and many participated in the tour for the first time.
During my first time attending the well-orchestrated event organized by the hardworking staff and volunteers at the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum, I enjoyed a bird’s eye view of some of the loveliest coastal homes imaginable and learned a few things for next time.
Insider Tips for Experiencing the Cannon Beach Cottage Tour:
Plan ahead. The popular event and fundraiser attracts more and more attendees each year. Reserve accommodations well in advance of the busy weekend.
Book accommodations within walking distance. There are numerous options within walking distance. Cannon Beach is a quaint beach town, so you can stay practically anywhere and still be within a 10–20-minute walk of the festivities.
We stayed at the Hallmark Resort and Spa and it was nothing short of fantastic. With the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum just a stone's throw away and downtown restaurants, shops, and other attractions within a 10-15-minute walk, the hotel's location couldn't be more convenient. Situated by the ocean, this place offers some of the most breathtaking views of Haystack Rock around. Plus, the hotel staff is the best, and the resort offers plenty of amenities, such as firewood for beach bonfires with a s'mores kit, freshly baked cookies daily, an indoor pool, and easy beach access.
Photos provided by the Hallmark Resort & Spa Cannon Beach
Purchase tickets in advance. Buy tickets early for additional savings. Prices will increase on the day of the event. Post-Cottage Tour activities like Paint and Sips may sell out quickly, too. Of course, it is a fundraiser, so they won’t mind if you wait. The ticket also gains you inside access to special perks at local businesses throughout the weekend.
Attend the Opening Night Benefit Bash. Don't miss this wonderful event. With admission by donation, guests can enjoy museum displays, mingle with community members, sample delicious local food and drinks, listen to live music, and even bid on amazing silent auction items. This year included a variety of auction offerings such as paintings, custom photography sessions, in-home paint parties, artwork, and gift baskets.
Photos by Emily Molina
Arrive early on tour day. On the day of the tour, arriving early is important, especially if you're driving and need to find parking. Parking is not usually available on the often narrow streets and driveways of tour destinations. There are plenty of accessible public parking areas. The homes included on the tour are usually close together and easily walkable.
You'll also need to pick up a cottage tour map. This is your entry ticket for each stop, and it is only available on event day from designated pick-up locations. This year, maps could be picked up at noon at the Coaster Theatre or the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum.
Start at the end. After receiving the map, I recommend starting anywhere other than at the beginning. You can avoid lines and bottlenecks by starting at the end or even the middle and working your way backward to visit each home listed. Another option is to start later than the scheduled opening time (but not too late, as the tour only lasts from noon to 5 pm). This will give you more time to take in all the details without feeling rushed or crowded in some of the smaller spaces.
Visit each cottage and return to your favorites to learn and see things you may have missed. Although museum docents are very informative, sometimes the owners or long-time family members are present and can share insights from their ancestors’ time there. Many have historic photos on display in albums or framed throughout. It is so interesting to see images of them when they were often the only structures that stood on their street.
Take a break. Stop for lunch, coffee, or a sweet treat. Cannon Beach never falls short of tasty options. You can rest on one of the many benches, admire outdoor public art, visit galleries or quaint shops. Better yet, walk to the end of just about any oceanside street, stick your toes in the sand, and breathe in the salt air for some rejuvenation. It’s okay to switch gears for a little while; there’s a lot to take in. Check the museum schedule for additional speaker engagements or tastings that may be happening during the day, too.
Plan your trip right here at cannonbeach.org
Some Highlights From 2024
Although each home is charming and lovely in its own way, it's a privilege that the generous homeowners have allowed us to take a peek inside and dream a little. Here are a few of my favorites from the 2024 tour.
The Harbor celebrated 100 years since its original owner, Captain Orrin Kellogg, bought the property for only $100. It has been with its current owners since 1944. Holding onto much of its early charm, its position next to the sea affords some of the best possible views of Haystack Rock on this year's tour.
Photos by Emily Molina
The Cornell House, built in 1915, showcases the early history of Cannon Beach through its first owners, Emily Cornell and family. Inside, you can even see the original plans designed by her son Willis. The front yard, adorned with a picket fence, gate, and stone walkway leading to the porch, gives it genuine curb appeal. Notable features include a beautiful stone fireplace in the family/common room and a cozy yellow-walled kitchen with a black and white tiled floor.
Photos by Emily Molina
The Cannon Beach House was purchased by the American author Ursula K. Le Guin and her family in 1986. It was heartwarming to speak with her daughter, Caroline Le Guin, and hear personal anecdotes about how special the property remains to the family. It was easy to picture the author in her office, an addition to the structure in the 1990s.
Photos by Emily Molina
The Cannon Beach Community Church made its first appearance on the tour. The original church, built on this spot in 1931, underwent significant upgrades and renovations in 1996. Noteworthy details include a vaulted ceiling, a Celtic Cross sculpture, and stained glass rose windows in the newer sanctuary. The stone hearth at the entry point from the parking lot is a beautiful focal point as well. The amiable Pastor David Robinson was on hand to provide guided tours.
This article is supported and sponsored by the Hallmark Resort & Spa and the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum.
