Story Ideas 

Several experiences are uniquely Cannon Beach, and this list of story idea topics is designed for writers and editors. 

Cannon Beach is the iconic Oregon Coast experience.

More than one famous rock makes Cannon Beach the ultimate Oregon Coast experience. Cannon Beach offers access to some of the Oregon Coast’s most breathtaking viewpoints. It is located between two stunning state parks along miles of uninterrupted sandy beach with Oregon’s iconic Haystack Rock at its center. No wonder National Geographic named Cannon Beach one of The World’s 100 Most Beautiful Places. 

In Cannon Beach, wild beauty meets refined hospitality.

Cannon Beach may be one of the smaller towns on the Oregon Coast, but it is in a class by itself for upscale hospitality options in the region. Luxurious oceanfront resorts overlook one of the world’s most spectacular natural areas, chef-owned restaurants create celebration quality meals that showcase the bounty of the Northwest, and chic shopping abounds in this town, known as one of the top art towns in America. Creativity permeates the community fabric, where you can taste local microbrews with gastropub quality meals, sample locally distilled spirits, and browse a dozen galleries and artist studios.

Cannon Beach is the Northwest’s most romantic destination.

It offers the perfect setting for a romantic stroll, a snuggle next to a beach fire, or a vantage point to watch the sunset into the Pacific. It’s not surprising that Cannon Beach was voted the best romantic getaway by readers of The Oregonian and that USA Today named Cannon Beach one of America’s 10 Most Romantic Coastal Destinations. Luxurious view lodgings and restaurants suited to an intimate candlelight dinner complete the picture of Cannon Beach as the ideal place for a romantic getaway or to celebrate a special occasion. 

Cannon Beach is just minutes from the North Oregon Coast’s best hiking trails.

Tucked between two of the Oregon Coast’s best state parks for hikers, Cannon Beach makes a perfect base for hiking adventures. Trails lead to secluded beaches, venture through lush rainforests, and climb through wildflower meadows for bird’s eye views. There are short, easy hikes for casual outings or extended treks, including one of the most scenic 13-mile stretches of the 382-mile Oregon Coast Trail.

Cannon Beach is one of the top art towns in America.

Beach town shopping rises to a new level in Cannon Beach, where art galleries thrive, and fine arts and crafts are displayed daily. Named one of The 100 Best Art Towns in America by author John Villani in his book, Cannon Beach lives up to its art town reputation with an active gallery scene, public art, a thriving community theater program, and art festivals throughout the year.

Unparalleled wildlife encounters abound in Cannon Beach.

On any visit to Cannon Beach, you might meet some of its colorful locals: Tufted Puffins, Roosevelt Elk, Bald Eagles, or a wide variety of other wildlife and marine life. Haystack Rock and other rocky intertidal areas offer tide pools filled with fascinating creatures, while beaches, woodlands, and the Ecola Creek estuary make Cannon Beach a birdwatcher’s paradise. Nearby, Ecola State Park is one of the state’s best whale-watching viewpoints, and herds of elk frequent its meadows. 

Cannon Beach offers exceptional experiences during the quiet seasons.

Many people think of the beach only as a summer destination. However, some of the most authentic, exciting, and surprising Oregon Coast experiences are found during the quieter seasons of the year in Cannon Beach. Uncrowded beaches, a roaring ocean with big crashing waves, encounters with wildlife, and the best beachcombing of the year are just the beginning. It’s also easier to find a table at a great restaurant, you’ll meet locals who have time to chat in a non-rushed setting, and you’re likely to find a room at the lowest room rates of the year.

We hope you’ll consider these story ideas as you pitch travel editors or create content for your publication. Please contact the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce if you have questions or need additional resources.