Cannon Beach Surfing and Bodyboarding

Know Before You Go

Cannon Beach enjoys a busy surfing scene and is one of the most convenient places on the Oregon Coast to learn to surf and access the best beaches for surfing. Summer months are generally ideal for beginners to learn in much smaller swell conditions. Cannon Beach lifeguards are on the beach from Memorial Day through Labor Day Weekend. If you want to surf along Cannon Beach and Tolovana, talk to the lifeguards about the recommended area to safely surf.

The state's massive state park system preserves much of the Oregon Coast. Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park are two of the most popular surfing areas, with Indian Beach and Short Sands Beach just a minute's drive from Cannon Beach.

All surfers and visitors should take necessary precautions, especially when visiting more remote beaches. Tides, swell, and wind conditions create an ever-changing dynamic environment. Always know the tides when you are on Oregon beaches. Be aware that tidal change can happen quickly on the North Coast. Check out the local tide tables each day of your visit.

Ecola State Park Indian Beach

Surfing Level: All levels, depending on the season. Keep in mind that summer months are typically smaller and safer for beginner surfers to learn. Winter swells are significant and create dangerous longshore and rip currents in the ocean.
Considerations: Kayakers, lots of surfers and visitors, especially in summer months, high rate of Coast Guard rescues in large winter surf, and a riptide on the North end of the beach at the bottom of the trail to the beach.
Access: Just north of Cannon Beach, follow signs to Ecola State Park. Continue past the Ecola park turnoff to Indian Beach. There is a $ 5 day-use fee.
Facilities: Bathrooms, covered picnic area, and benches.

Oswald West State Park, aka Short Sands Beach

Surfing Level: All levels, depending on the season. Keep in mind that summer months are typically smaller and safer for beginner surfers to learn. Winter swells are significant and create dangerous longshore and rip currents in the ocean.
Considerations: Many beginner surfers, the most popular surfing beach on the Oregon Coast, expect high parking and trail use demand.
Access: 10 miles south of Cannon Beach. Three paved parking lots off Hwy 101. The East middle lot is closest to the trailhead, next to the bathrooms. Limited space for RVs. Don't leave valuables in your car.
Facilities: Bathrooms at the top and bottom of the trail, picnic tables, benches, water fountains, and faucets to wash feet.