Fodor’s Travel: Cannon Beach a Global Standout Destination

Winter Sunset in Cannon Beach

Winter Sunset in Cannon Beach

Fodor’s released its  2024 “Travel Go”  list of the top 24 best travel destinations across the globe.  Cannon Beach was one of only two places in the United States included.

For over 80 years, Fodor’s Travel has established itself as the trusted resource for expert travel advice.

So for Cannon Beach to make the list of the top 24 best travel destinations across the globe is pretty impressive.  The only other domestic location on the list was Boulder Colorado.     Other travel destinations on the list included international locations like Bergen Norway, Queensland, New Zealand, Puerto Escondido, Mexico, and Rouen, France.

Why it’s Wonderful

With moody weather, dramatic coastlines, and diverse flora and fauna, it’s no wonder people visitors fall in love with Cannon Beach.  Writer Kay Kingsman penned, “If Michelangelo, Toni Morrison, and H.E.R all collaborated to come up with a single destination, the creation would be Cannon Beach.” She notes that the seaside town  Cannon Beach is structured around its abundant natural beauty.

Both indoor and outdoor highlights demonstrate that Cannon Beach appeals to just about everyone.  And the time of year depends on the experience you want.  Visitors can enjoy lively summers, storm-watching in winter,  or the mild shoulder seasons in between.

Outdoors, Cannon Beach attractions include wide inviting beaches, colossal Haystack Rock, and its colorful tidepools, and the majestic views of hiking trails from nearby Ecola State Park. Indoors visitors to Cannon Beach can take in notable art galleries,  unique boutiques and farm fresh/boat-to-table dining, and inviting pubs.   

Why Tolovana In the Ideal Resort

No matter when you visit Cannon Beach, Tolovana Inn’s oceanfront rooms and suites are the perfect place to stay.  You’ll be steps to the sand.  You’ll stay cozy enjoying a warm fire and endless views from your private beachfront balcony.

Giving gift cards to Cannon Beach is a double treat.  One, when your recipient opens the your thoughtful gift.  And, secondly when they redeem the card for a memorable stay at one of Oregon’s favorite beachfront resorts!

 

 

Easy Gift Giving: Gift Cards to Tolovana Inn

Gift Card

Tolovana Inn Gift Cards are a welcome gift idea.

Holiday gift-giving presents a delicate balance.  Above all, you want to give something that feels special for your giftee, without giving them something they already have.

Likewise, you also must factor in the expense. When buying gifts, you want to spend hard-earned money on something that will be appreciated.

Holiday gift lists often suggest luxury items or new tech “must-haves.”   As alluring as they may sound, those gifts frequently fall short of leaving a lasting impression. And, isn’t that the goal of a good gift?

The Solution: A Gift of Experience

Increasingly, gifts of experiences are becoming more popular. That’s because they keep on giving, providing memories that last.

With that in mind, we suggest you consider giving cards to Tolovana Inn on the Oregon coast.

Tolovana Inn gift cards are great for holiday giving because they are:

  • ideal for family members, clients, or even a special someone.
  • certain to be considered exceptionally thoughtful.
  • easy to redeem throughout the year.

Who wouldn’t want to stay in a special ocean-view suite with a private beachfront balcony, cozy fireplace, and full kitchen?  Just steps to the beach and Haystack Rock, guests can stroll along wide shores.  Or, relax indoors listening to the rolling sound of the Pacific Ocean.  With pet-friendly rooms, guests can also bring their furbabies along for the fun. Amenities on-site include a sparkling indoor saltwater pool, spa, and fitness center.

There’s so much to do, all just a 90-minute drive from Portland.  Cannon Beach’s distinctive shops, galleries, and boutiques are always inviting.   Year-round, guests can enjoy art festivals and special events. Nearby, beautiful coastal parks provide easy access to scenic hiking trails.

Make a Call to Order Holiday Gift Cards

Just call Tolovana Inn to order gift cards of any denomination.  Our staff will send them to you or directly to the recipient.  Call 503-436-2211.

This year, don’t wrap frivolous gifts or forgettable stuff.  Give the gift of Tolovana Inn at Cannon Beach.

Discover Cannon Beach Sights on the Best Local Oregon Tours

Explore Cannon Beach

From recognizable landmarks like Haystack Rock to something a little more off the beaten path, there is no shortage of things to discover in Cannon Beach. One of the best ways to explore all this Oregon town has to offer is on entertaining tours. During your next stay at Tolovana Inn, set off on your own or reserve your spot on a guided outing to explore all there is to see in Cannon Beach.

Cannon Beach Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore Cannon Beach is on your two feet. There are several self-guided walking tours that fit a variety of interests.

  • Wander in and out of incredible art galleries by following the gallery tour map. The roughly mile-long outing takes you to several spots throughout town that showcase the talented artists that call this region home.
  • If you have any birdwatching enthusiasts in your group, set off on the birdwatching walking tour. Make your way to several points in town known for bird sightings, like Haystack Rock, the Cannon Beach Nature Trail, and Little Pompey Wetland.
  • Just like there are phenomenal art galleries in town, there are also several public works of art to discover. Start at the Corner of Second Street and Spruce to wander the 1.4-mile public art tour.

Reserve Your Spot on Guided Outings

There are certain benefits to going on self-guided tours, and there are also perks to letting knowledgeable guides show you around. Consider adding one of these unique attractions near Cannon Beach to your itinerary on your next visit.

  • Take in scenic views on the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, which offers a 90-minute roundtrip ride between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach.
  • Explore Nehalem Bay, found about 15 miles south of Cannon Beach, on an outing with Kayak Tillamook. This body of water is part of the Pacific Flyway, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.

Set Off on Adventures from Tolovana Inn

While Tolovana Inn is known for being a relaxing place to call home, it is also the perfect home base for all sorts of adventures. After checking into our Oregon coast resort, set off on memorable Cannon Beach tours or enjoy one of the other countless things to do in town.

When you’re ready to call it a night, unwind in comfort back at our oceanfront hotel. No matter which accommodation style you reserve, you’ll enjoy a spacious room complete with a private balcony, cozy bedding, and more. Call 503-436-2211 to learn more about reserving your stay or our on-site amenities. We can also answer any questions you may have about special offers.

 

What to Know about Cannon Beach Tides

Situated right on the shoreline in Cannon Beach, Tolovana Inn is the ideal location for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Oregon’s coast. As one of the state’s favorite beach communities, everyone from families to couples will have fun discovering all there is to do and see throughout town. Thanks to its coastal location, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in or near the water. However, before setting off on your adventure, it’s important to understand the tides in Cannon Beach.

How Changing Tides Can Affect Your Outing

Something as simple as the changing tides may not seem like a big deal, but it can significantly impact activities. The moon’s gravitational pull causes sea levels to change by advancing and retreating along the shoreline. If the water is as high up the shore as it’ll go, this is called high tide. Low tide is when the water recedes as far as it’ll go.

There are generally two high tides and two low tides a day. However, these occurrences don’t happen at the same time each day, so it’s essential to check a tide table before heading out on your excursion. Knowing when the tide is coming and going means you can decide the best time to head out on your coastal adventure.

  • For the best surfing, go between high and low tide
  • The hour before and after high and low tide, known as slack tide, is the best for swimming
  • Anglers will want to cast their lines about an hour before low tide, known as falling tide
  • If you want to go beachcombing, set out about two to three hours before low tide

One of the most well-known landmarks in the area, Haystack Rock, is surrounded by tide pools. Exploring these sites is one of the most unique things you can do on vacation and is best done right before low tide. You might just see everything from sea stars to anemones and other marine creatures.

Unwind after Exploring the Pacific Northwest Coastline

No matter where your Cannon Beach outing takes you, like exploring tide pools during low tides or discovering The Goonies filming locations, rest easy knowing you have a cozy place to call home. Booking your getaway to Tolovana Inn means staying at an incredible resort right on the ocean.

Our accommodations range from rooms to suites, so we can host groups of all sizes. We even have a limited number of pet-friendly rooms if you’re wanting to bring your four-legged friends along. Before turning in for the night, enjoy a night under the stars at the beach fire pits or get a quick workout in at the fitness center. For more information about the resort or special offers, call 503-436-2211.

Zoom from your Room: Work and Learn at Tolovana Inn

This fall, Zoom from a beachfront room at Tolovana Inn in Cannon Beach.

With free internet throughout the resort, you can make Tolovana Inn your virtual office or coastal classroom.  Then, when the work is complete,  experience ‘hands-on” learning and outdoor recreation at Oregon’s favorite beach destination.

Indoor Learning:  Special Resources

The Cannon Beach Historical Society and Museum website provides great content to enlighten you about the area.   First, start with a fun, interactive online quiz that will test your knowledge of local lore.

Secondly, you can learn about the three cannons of Cannon Beach.  The first cannon, which inspired the name of the town, washed ashore in 1898.  The cannon was part of the armament of the USS Shark which sank in high seas.  Two more cannons, from the same schooner, were discovered on the coast in 2008.

Thirdly, check out old photos online of popular historical sites around town.   From Bill’s Tavern to the original Osburns’ Grocery sites, you’ll recognize many locations.  The old Warren Hotel site built by homesteaders in 1911 is where Tolovana Inn sits today.  After you’ve done some research, venture out to see some of the notable sites.

Clear your mind with a fresh air stroll 

When your work is done, there’s not a better way to clear your mind than with a walk in the fresh, clean air of nearby forest trails.  You can experience the natural beauty found along the favorite walking and hiking trails through lush rain forests and giant Sitka spruce groves.

Of course, there’s always the allure of the wide sandy beaches just out your door. Cannon Beach offers miles of uninterrupted beach to explore.  And along the magnificent shoreline, tidepools present their own kind of magic.

Discover the magic of tidepools

Optimum viewing of coastal tidepools is an hour before low tide. There, you’ll discover many colorful and strange creatures as the tide recedes.  This unique environment reveals bright sea stars clinging to rocks. Green anemones lay open like flowers at the bottom of pools. Look carefully and you’ll see crabs, fish, snails, limpets, coral, sponge, and colorful sea slugs.    

Review the Cannon Beach tide tables here.

Book Today

In a year like no other, make great memories with an Autumn getaway to Tolovana Inn.  With full kitchens, private beachfront balconies, fireplaces, and a sparkling indoor saltwater pool, you can get your work done and then relax in comfort.

 Book your stay today.

 

Ocean view, suite

 

 

 

 

 

Enjoy SurfPerch Fishing in Cannon Beach

Enjoy Surfperch Fishing at Cannon Beach

If you like to fish, then surfperch fishing will be a treat. Surfperch is one of the most popular fish to fish for along Oregon’s sandy beaches – you can catch them on a boat, or from shore. There are plenty of spots at Cannon Beach for you to enjoy fishing for surfperch, and all of those spots are just a short distance from Tolovana Inn. So whether you want to have a weekend getaway for fishing or you want to teach your children the ropes, everything you need to know about surfperch fishing is below!

All You Need to Know About Surfperch Fishing at Cannon Beach

Whether you’re a seasoned fisher or going for the first time, you’ll find plenty of helpful tips if you keep reading. Learn about when and where to fish for surfperch, the proper equipment you’ll need, and more!

When and Where to Fish for Surfperch

It’s best to fish for surfperch in the spring or the early summer, but you can still catch them throughout all of the seasons. During the spring and summer, these fish school up along sandy shorelines. You’ll want to start when there is an incoming tide, or when it’s just a few hours before the high tide. You’ll have the best luck finding these fish in deep holes or depressions, like steeply sloped beaches, rocky areas in the sand, or near jetties. It’s easy to find these places during the low tides because it’s more visible.

The Equipment You’ll Need

When fishing for surfperch, you’re going to need heavy tackle so that you can navigate the heavy surf where the fish reside. A long nine to 11-foot rod that can hold a two to six-ounce weight, a spinning reel that holds 200-300 yards of 15 to 30-pound monofilament line. Popular bate includes the following: mole crabs, marine worms, sand shrimp, mussels and clam necks. For hooks, the most popular for catching surfperch are hooks number two and four, as well as some swivels and a pyramid sinker.

Tolovana Inn: The Best Hotel on The Oregon Coast

We are the perfect place for a weekend getaway – whether it be for your family, you and your significant other, or a solo trip to get away from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life. Enjoy peace and serenity, overlooking the beach and the ocean. Spend time hiking, biking, fishing, walking along the beach, or splashing in the ocean. There is no shortage of activities to do around Tolovana Inn! To book one of our quaint, seaside rooms, call us at 1-800-333-8890.

 

Girlfriends’ Getaway to Cannon Beach

Cannnon Beach

Girlfriends’ getaways are a perfect escape from the monotony of daily life. Grabbing gal pals and exploring a coastal town together creates memories that will last a lifetime—and especially in a uniquely charming place like Cannon Beach, Oregon. The oceanfront village provides a wide variety of exciting attractions and things to do, so no matter what kind of interests everyone has, everyone will find an activity they love. Check out suggestions for things to do in Cannon Beach during girlfriends’ getaways when you stay at Tolovana Inn

Itineraries for Girlfriends’ Getaways 

Relaxing trips with BFFs take a little planning ahead of time. Let Tolovana Inn do the research and ideation, so girlfriends’ getaways mean maximum relaxation and minimum stress. Here are a few ideas to consider for vacation. 

Coffee Crawls 

Luckily, there are plenty of Cannon Beach coffee shops to fuel a caffeine high. Visit Cannon Beach Bakery for a classic espresso list, and Insomnia Coffee for a gorgeous, light-filled shop. Sea Level Bakery’s pour-over bar changes weekly, and they have a list of mouth-watering pastries. Maybe coffee crawls will turn into a carb crawl, with all the pastries and bread available. 

Shopping 

After a coffee crawl, walking from store to store will help release pent-up energy from the caffeine. Many of the local Cannon Beach shops are located on Hemlock Street and the surrounding streets. Cannon Beach Makers sells locally made jewelry, home goods, and other unique items by Pacific Northwest designers. Dena’s Shop on the Corner offers clothes, jewelry, and footwear. Finding something to take home as a souvenir from a girlfriends’ getaway trip is a guarantee.

Wineries Near Cannon Beach 

After coffee in the morning, finish with a little wine later in the day. Check out The Wine Shack for either wine from around the world, or the house-made Puffin wines like Pinot Gris. At Nehalem Bay Winery, the Bay Blush is a mix of the winery’s riesling and Pinot noir; and the Cranpere is a riesling blended with cranberry. When there are 20 wines to try, it’s got to be 5 o’clock somewhere, right? 

Accommodations at Tolovana Inn

These are some of the most classic activities for girlfriends’ getaways to Cannon Beach, Oregon. Staying at Tolovana Inn is the perfect option, whether the oceanfront rooms, shuttle to downtown Cannon Beach, or the kitchens in-room are the highlight. Enjoy beautiful sunsets and amazing views of Haystack Rock, the indoor saltwater pool, and long walks on the beach.  Because a canine companion can be a great girlfriend, the Inn is pet- firendly, too. Give us a call at 800-333-8890 or visit us on our website for more information about staying at Tolovana Inn.

 

Top 3 Cannon Beach Restaurants

Cannon Beach RestaurantsTop 3 Cannon Beach Restaurants

When life becomes busy and overwhelming, many people flock to the ocean to take a much-needed break from the daily grind. The best part about Oregon Coast trips are the different types of cuisine offered at the Cannon Beach restaurants near Tolovana Inn. Many menu items include locally sourced ingredients as well as drink lists that showcase regional wineries and local brews. Keep reading to find out the top three local favorite Cannon Beach restaurants.

The Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge

For incredible views of Haystack Rock, the Wayfarer Restaurant offers a beautiful waterfront location overlooking the ocean. Featuring Pacific Northwest fare, the menu provides locally sourced dishes from Dungeness crab, Astoria salmon, and oysters from Nevør Shellfish Farm. Sitting next to the coastal shores to enjoy a meal is one of the best things to do in Cannon Beach. 

Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge

One of the best Cannon Beach restaurants that features a beautiful patio is the Driftwood Restaurant, located on Main Street. Many people enjoy sitting on the patio with a glass of red wine to watch the nightlife later in the evening while nestled next to the outdoor firepit. Serving steak, seafood, sandwiches, burgers, and more stop in for lunch or dinner. The casual locale also has a fantastic happy hour from 4-6 p.m. daily and a clam chowder bread bowl that is hard to pass up!

Pelican Brewing

While there is outdoor seating at Pelican Brewing, many people opt to sit inside to enjoy the immaculate soaring ceilings, and the natural light let in by the massive windows. Making a list of things to do in Cannon Beach should always include trying a new artisan craft beer. The pub-style brewery creates a variety of beer styles including blondes, IPAs, porters, pilsners, stouts, and the list goes on. Pair the local brew with a gourmet flatbread, tacos, a delicious burger, or a cup of chowder.

Oregon Coast Trips

Tolovana Inn,

Tolovana Inn, oceanfront in Cannon Beach

Whether travelers are in the mood for pizza, burgers, seafood, upscale eats, or want an oceanfront view while dining, there are countless types of Cannon Beach restaurants to enjoy. Tolovana Inn is centrally located to cafes, pubs, breweries, and versatile dining options. Many people find that the food on the Oregon Coast alone is worth the trip. When traveling frequently to Cannon Beach, Oregon, we encourage travelers to join our Frequent Guest Program. Learn more about the program under the accommodations page to see how you could earn points and receive a FREE night. Book your stay online, or please contact the hotel directly 1-800-333-8890 for further assistance.

 

 

Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach,OR

Haystack Rock starfiish

Marine life from Haystack Rock

Travelers staying at Tolovana Inn are encouraged to discover new species at low tide during annual vacations to Cannon Beach Oregon through the act of tidepooling. Oregon has over 362 miles of coastline that are free for the public to explore, including Haystack Rock, a 235-foot rock formation that is home to a fascinating marine garden of sea creatures. Migratory shorebirds and magical marine life make this National Wildlife Refuge one of the top things to do in Cannon Beach as well as a local hot spot for tide pool viewing. Plan to avoid Haystack Rock parking clutter by arriving early to get a spot at one of the many public parking areas. 

What is Tidepooling?

Ocean-dwelling residents such as vibrant starfish, sea urchins, colorful anemone, scurrying crabs, and other aquatic life can be found in pooled waters left at Haystack Rock. Visitors can not only encounter unique critters in their natural habitat but also indulge in breathtaking views of the coastal shores. Outdoor enthusiasts may inspect the exposed sea life during low tide; however, it is not advised to touch or disturb the area since Haystack Rock is a protected landmark. It is prohibited to climb on the rocks as there are many living creatures such as mussels, barnacles, and sponges that make it hard to distinguish between rock and creature. The Haystack Rock Awareness Program provides safe, guided tours for excellent viewing opportunities.  

A Premier Cannon Beach Resort

Families from all over North America travel to Cannon Beach Oregon to explore the many nearby beaches, galleries, shops, and museums that surround Tolovana Inn. Our guests have the opportunity to enjoy an oceanfront stay with beautiful views of the shoreline from a private balcony. Ocean front suite at Tolovana InnSpace is vital when traveling with a group, so make sure to check out our large suites and rooms on the accommodations page before making a reservation. Please call 1-800-333-8890 to inquire about more information or to book your stay.

Hiking Near Cannon Beach

Hiking near Cannon Beach

Hiking near Cannon Beach at Oswald State Park

 

A significant advantage of spending time at Tolovana Inn is that there are many great
trails for hiking near Cannon Beach. No matter what season, add a hike or two to the list
of things to do in Oregon. Nature lovers will be able to spend the day exploring the
beautiful landscapes, secluded beaches, and hiking trails during their stay. While there
are many local state parks to explore, here are two parks to check out.

Ecola State Park

Upon entering Ecola State Park, travelers will be consumed by the breathtaking flora and fauna spread throughout the park and happy to know it’s just minutes from their Cannon Beach lodging. While exploring the entrance, many hikers find themselves surrounded by forestry on a road that leads to a grassy bluff overlooking the Pacific Coast. Ecola State Park extends along a nine-mile stretch along the Oregon coastline. It offers a place for wildlife observation, picnicking with the family, tidepooling and has many trails for hiking near Cannon Beach.  Through the traverse, there is an abandoned lighthouse, hidden coves, isolated beaches, and outstanding views of Haystack Rock. Hikers journey through blooming flowers, towering pines, and magical views of the ocean during their getaway and the park will be a highlight of the trip.

Oswald West State Park

Hiking near Cannon Beach

Walkway at Oswald State Park

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Set aside time to explore the untouched forestry of Oswald West State Park stepping away from the crowds of Cannon Beach, and is just five miles south of Tolovana Inn. The park features sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches, and the Oregon Coast Trail that is a 13 mile long meandering trail through the park. Many hiking trails are located throughout the park so bring a camera along to capture images of the massive western red cedars, beautiful green ferns, and red huckleberry throughout the trek. Delight in a peaceful walk through the trails where venturers hear the sounds of the ocean along the way. While hiking near Cannon Beach at the park stop by Smugglers Cove, known as “short sands,” and watch surfers hit the waves as this is a favorite local surfing destination. There are many areas to explore while at Oswald West State Park, so mark this on the list of things to do in Oregon during vacation.

Oceanfront Cannon Beach Lodging

Indoor Salt Water

Indoor Salt Water

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While on family vacations, escape the busy city life and spend a day out hiking near Cannon Beach. Tolovana Inn provides peaceful views of the oceanfront from a private balcony where the beach is within steps at all times. After a day out hiking, come back and relax in the salt water indoor pool area that features a hot tub and sauna. Not many Oregon coast locations use a Saline System, and the benefits of a salt water pool eliminate the irritation to the body. The welcoming staff at Tolovana Inn will help with reservations and can answer any questions travelers may have. To book a stay, call 1-800-333-8890.

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