Bus and Taxi options along Highway 101

Ride the Wave

 

With attractions both north and south of Cannon Beach, you might be wondering if you can leave the driving to someone else.

Bus service connects coastal communities, which is good because rideshares like Lyft and Uber are not available along the coast.

The NW Connector is an alliance of transit agencies that provide bus service throughout Northwest Oregon.  The Sunset Empire Transportation System operates the service from Cannon Beach north to Astoria.  The Tillamook County Transportation District connects Cannon Beach south to Tillamook. 

So if you want to take a break from driving or want to meet up with friends for  hiking or riding, you have some options. Check out the NW Connector list of schedules and upload the App to your phone.

Board the northbound bus adjacent to Tolovana Inn

The Pacific Connector route runs Saturday and Sunday, offering several round trips Northbound  between Cannon Beach and Astoria.   You can board the bus at the Wayside  Inn bus stop adjacent to Tolovana Inn.

The Summer weekend schedule shows that the bus departs the Wayside Inn stop four times.  On Saturday and Sunday, you can board at 9:19 AM, 11:31 AM, 2:16 PM, and 4:59 PM.  The last drop off at the Wayside Inn is at 7:46 PM.

From the Wayside Inn, the bus travels south to Yukon street, then turns around, heading up through Cannon Beach, with stops in Seaside, Gearhart, Warrenton and Astoria.  The route starts again in Astoria.

During the weekdays, the Route 101 schedule only offers one departure from the Wayside Inn northbound at 7:47 AM and with a return at 5:47 PM.

At only a $1 for a one-way fare, planning a day-excursion either for shopping or exploring nearby communities can provide another fun way to experience the coast and free you from driving to enjoy amazing scenic views.

Cannon Beach South To Tillamook

If you are heading south, you’ll start in Midtown.  Route 3 from Cannon Beach departs at 9:34 AM, 11:34 AM and 4:04PM with the last bus returning at 7:39 PM. The Midtown bus shelter is located at the corner of Hemlock and Gower, west of City Hall.  From there, the Route 3 bus stops at Manzanita, Nehalem, Wheeler, Rockaway Beach, Garibaldi, Bay City and the Tillamook Transit station.  Rides are $1 each way. Again, you can sit back and enjoy the views and leave the driving the someone else.

Seaside Road Runners Taxi

Seaside Road Runners Taxi is another transportation option serving Cannon Beach and Seaside and Astoria.  Rates are about $2.50 a mile.   Call (971) 777-1025.

Bikes and Pets

With either bus company, you can bring a bike, assuming you can load it yourself onto the bus rack. Service dogs are welcome to ride, but pets must be in carriers.  

And remember, schedules are subject to change.  So plan accordingly! 

 

Feel the Thrill of Ziplining in Oregon

Zipping through the forest at the coast

The Oregon coast is known for its breathtaking views, and there’s no shortage of ways to take in the sights when vacationing in Cannon Beach. Make the short walk from Tolovana Inn to the beach to watch the waves roll in or set off on a memorable tour of town. If you’re looking to add a bit of thrill to your sightseeing excursion, go ziplining in nearby Warrenton, Oregon.

What to Know about This Oregon Zipline Tour

Roughly 30 minutes from our Cannon Beach Hotel is High Life Adventures Zipline Tour. This Warrenton attraction helps you experience Mother Nature’s beauty on an incredible adventure. The eight-line tour takes you over seasoned timber, a seven-acre lake, and ponds. Your outing is led by trained guides who watch and assist to ensure your experience remains fun and safe.

The tour generally lasts about two and a half hours, but the group size can affect the duration. Before reserving your visit, make sure you read up on their restrictions, which include things like weight and age limits. On the day of your ziplining excursion, arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled time, as late arrivals will not be able to join once a tour has started.

Other Treetop Fun

For another adventure with treetop views, try High Life Adventure Park in Seaside. The aerial challenge course has something for all ages, and guides are there to help you choose your difficulty level. With over 50 challenge elements and 30 platforms, there is no shortage of ways to test your strength and agility.

Make Tolovana Inn Your Oregon Home Base

From ziplining to exploring local attractions, there are countless things to do on vacation in Cannon Beach, Oregon. That’s why it’s so important to have a place to call home that’s comfortable and centrally located. You get all this and more when you stay at Tolovana Inn.

Our oceanfront resort in Cannon Beach features a number of accommodations, including guest rooms and suites. We even have pet-friendly options! We work to make your stay as enjoyable as possible, and a large part of that is providing tranquil spaces that make you feel at home. Go to www.tolovanainn.com to learn more about our resort and its amenities or current special offers.

 

Average Weather Conditions by Season in Cannon Beach

Average weather by seasons in Cannon Beach Whether you’re looking to plan an adventure-filled summer getaway or a laid-back winter escape, there’s no better destination than Cannon Beach. This oceanside town is home to countless adventures, and some of the best ones are close to Tolovana Inn. When deciding when to plan your vacation to this popular Oregon coast town, a great idea is to look at the average weather in Cannon Beach for each season.

A Look at Average Conditions throughout the Year

There’s no bad time to visit Cannon Beach. However, one time of year might fit your ideal activities more than others. This is why looking at the average weather for this Oregon town is such an essential part of your vacation planning.

Spring (March through May)

While temperatures start to rise in the spring, the frequent rain can make things feel a bit cooler. The average daily high sits around the low to mid-60s, which means you can still spend time outdoors. For the days the weather is a bit too dreary to be outside, have fun indoors at local attractions like the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum, or take a swim in our indoor saltwater pool.

Summer (June through August)

Perhaps the best time to visit Cannon Beach is during the summer. This time period is known for idyllic conditions, like daily highs that can reach the mid-70s. Take advantage of the beautiful weather by embarking on local tours or spending time in Ecola State Park.

Fall (September through November)

While things don’t cool down a ton between summer and fall, this third season of the year does bring slightly cooler temperatures due to the humidity and wind. There are countless things to do during autumn, like trying to spot a Roosevelt Elk herd or hiking a local trail.

Winter (December through February)

While temperatures do drop more and chances of precipitation increase, there is still fun to be had during the winter. Temps still reach highs in the 50s, which means you can spend time outdoors with the proper layers to go storm watching or whale watching.

Start Planning Your Cannon Beach Escape Today

No matter what season you decide to visit Tolovana Inn, it’s always a great idea to check the weather for Cannon Beach while packing for your Oregon getaway. This will help ensure you are ready for whatever conditions Mother Nature throws at you.

Regardless of when you visit, you’ll have a cozy and relaxing place to call home. Our oceanfront resort has everything you need to feel at home. Our accommodations  come in a variety of sizes, but all feature lush bedding and private bathrooms. We also offer incredible on-site amenities like EV charging stations, an indoor saltwater pool, and complimentary morning coffee. Learn more about what you can expect from your stay or ways to save by calling 503-436-2211.

Tillamook Lighthouse for Sale!

The Tillamook Lighthouse, built on an acre basalt rock The landmark Tillamook Lighthouse is up for sale.

Built a little over a mile offshore from Ecola State Park in Cannon Beach, the lighthouse offers a unique history and faces an uncertain future.   

Also known as “Terrible Tilly,” it is Oregon’s only offshore lighthouse.  Rising 133 feet about the whipping waters of the Pacific Ocean, Terribly Tilly is easy to spot but difficult to reach.

Tilly’s History

Situated on less than an acre of basalt rock in the Pacific Ocean, it was built in 1881 to guide ships along the ocean and to the Columbia River.  Constructing the lighthouse was grueling.  Accessing the rock was dangerous.  Unpredictable and stormy weather wreaked havoc on the crew,  supplies, and morale.   Not surprisingly, at more than $123,000–and over 500 days–its construction costs made it the most expensive lighthouse built in that era.

After manning it for 77 years, the U.S. Lighthouse Service turned it over to the U.S. Coast Guard in 1939.   But by 1957, it was decommissioned.  At that time,  it was listed on the National Registrary of Historic Places.   Eventually, it was put up for sale and Las Vegas investors bought it sight unseen two years later for $5,600 at an auction.

The site changed hands a few more times until the current investors/owners purchased it in 1980.  They established the Eternity-at-Sea Columbarium—a place where 30 funeral urns currently rest.

New Owners Sought

Now its current owners are interested in selling the unique site/Ideally, a new owner would expand the Columbarium business.  The current asking price for the site is $6.5 million.

Recently a team of five people was helicoptered out to the rock where they camped out for three days. Their job was to clean up the stone building to get it ready for sale. They also collected relics that could be used to raise funds for more maintenance work.   While the site needs paint and more cleanup, the structure stands firm.

The private Tillamook Rock property is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, It  can only be reached by helicopter–and with the owners’ permission. Access also depends on the weather and if sea lions aren’t overcrowding the landing site.

The last lighthouse keeper to leave the island post wrote lyrically about Terrible Tilly in the official logbook   He said that the Tillamook Lighthouse was   “one of the most notorious and yet “fascinating of the sea-swept sentinels in the world.”

He stated that its “beacon has been a star of hope” and its foghorn “a voice of encouragement” through “howling gale, thick fog and driving rain.”

You can read more about it here.

So when you are ready to plan your next stay at Tolovana Inn, be sure to take a few moments to watch the waves pound the rocks around “Terrible Tilly.”

Call 503-436-2211 to learn more about reserving your stay or our on-site amenities.

Discover Things to Do at Annual Cannon Beach Events

Found along the Oregon coast, Cannon Beach is one of the top beach communities in this region, and it isn’t hard to figure out why. From recognizable landmarks to memorable adventures, there is always something new to discover. Nestled right on the beach is Tolovana Inn. Our beachfront location makes us the perfect home base, especially if your trip lines up with some of the top annual Cannon Beach events and festivals.

A Glimpse at Top Festivals and Events

No matter the time of year, there is always something going on in Cannon Beach. The coastal town’s calendar of events is filled with entertaining festivals and events that are the perfect addition to any getaway. While there are countless festivities, we’ve highlighted three of the most popular ones below.

Fat Bike Festival

Every year around mid-May, the Fat Bike Festival takes over town. This weekend-long festival includes several rides around town that’ll have you exploring the beaches and community. Go on a self-guided ride along Klootchy Creek Trails, or join the 13-mile ride to Hug Point.

Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest

Back in 1964, the Cannon Beach Sand Castle Content was created to entertain families and visitors left relatively isolated after a tsunami washed away the bridge. Today, the annual festival is broken up into several divisions, including masters, teens, juniors, and more. Stop by the beach to see the piles of sand turned into incredible sculptures.

Art Festivals

There are several art festivals throughout the year that celebrate incredible local talent. In May, galleries gather the latest pieces of work from their featured artists for Spring Unveilings Arts Festival. The Stormy Weather Arts Festival in November features artist demonstrations, live music, a dinner auction, and more.

Of course, there are plenty more events or festivals to check out, including the Fourth of July and Haystack Holidays.

Start Planning Your Cannon Beach Getaway

If you’re trying to decide when to book your stay at Tolovana Inn, why not time you visit to line up with one of the fantastic Cannon Beach events? These annual happenings give you one more adventure to embark on during your Oregon coast escape.

After a day enjoying the festivities, kick back and relax in your home away from home. Our Cannon Beach hotel features a variety of accommodation options, which means you can find the one that fits your group best. Be sure to enjoy our on-site amenities, like an indoor pool and fitness center, to make the most out of your stay. To learn more about our hotel or ways to save, call 503-436-2211.

 

Map out a Memorable Portland to Cannon Beach Drive

Road Trip to Tolovana Inn in Cannon Beach, OR

Road trip to Tolovana Inn in Cannon Beach, Oregon.

Sometimes the best vacation destinations are closer than you think. Situated along the Oregon coast rests the charming town of Cannon Beach, where you can find Tolovana Inn. Our beachside resort is ideal for those looking to enjoy the slower pace of life. However, you don’t have to wait until you arrive for the adventures to begin. Have fun driving from Portland to Cannon Beach by checking out stops along the way.

What to Do and See on Your Oregon Road Trip

It takes less than two hours to drive from Portland to our Cannon Beach hotel, making it a perfect staycation option. Give yourself plenty of time to explore the unique attractions and charming towns found along the way.

  1. Play tourist in your own town before hitting the road by stopping at the Oregon Zoo. This attraction features five areas that highlight different ecosystems and continents. Check the calendar for upcoming events that’ll give you an up-close look at the creatures that call the zoo home.
  2. If you’re vacationing with children, be sure to stop by Play Street Museum – Beaverton. This space is filled with several interactive exhibits and activities that’ll have your kids learning and expanding their imaginations.
  3. If you’re up for a bit of a detour, head to L.L. Stub Stewart State Park. Found about 34 miles west of Portland, this space is home to almost 30 miles of hiking trails and is an excellent option if you’re looking to stretch your legs.
  4. Another fantastic outdoor attraction is Klootchy Creek Park. The 25-acre park is home to the Klootchy Creek Giant Sitka Spruce, which was once the state’s largest tree.
  5. As you make your way into Cannon Beach, visit Cannon Beach History Center & Museum. The museum works to preserve the town’s history by collecting and protecting historical artifacts. Wander the permanent and rotating exhibits to learn more about this Oregon coast town.

Unwind Oceanside at Tolovana Inn

There’s no shortage of ways to unwind at Tolovana Inn after making your drive from Portland to Cannon Beach. Go for a swim in the saltwater pool or relax by a beach bonfire. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, stop by Mo’s Restaurant.

Another great way to unwind after your drive is in the comfort of your room. Our spacious studios and rooms offer you a tranquil place to call home. We even have pet-friendly rooms, which means your pup can join in on the vacation fun. Call 503-436-2211 to learn more about our accommodation options, special offers, and on-site amenities.

Look at That: What to See on the Oregon Coast

Tillamook Light House

From the moment you arrive at Tolovana Inn, adventure is right at your fingertips. Our Cannon Beach resort puts you near some of the best activities this Oregon town has to offer. Spend time outdoors at Ecola State Park or discover filming locations of a cult classic. It won’t take you long to fill your itinerary with memorable adventures. When researching things to do, don’t forget to look into what to see on the Oregon Coast when visiting Cannon Beach.

5 Unique Cannon Beach Attractions

Whether visiting with friends, family, or the one you love most, you’ll find plenty of ways to spend your days. A fun way to explore Cannon Beach is to see how many unique attractions or landmarks you can stumble upon.

  1. One of the most recognizable spots in all of Cannon Beach is Haystack Rock. During low tide, you can even walk right up the basalt sea stack. This landmark is known for its tufted puffin population.
  2. Hidden behind Ecola State Park is Crescent Beach. You’ll need to hike just over a mile from the Ecola State Park Trailhead to reach the secluded beach. While countless travelers visit the state park, most won’t venture to this hidden gem.
  3. Part hot shop and part art gallery, Icefire Glassworks is known for its incredibly finely crafted blow glass. Opened in 1991, this shop represents several artists with a connection to Cannon Beach.
  4. Once an ice skating rink and silent movie theater, the Coaster Theatre is still a go-to place for entertainment. Transformed into a theater in 1972, this theater puts on two musicals and five plays a year. Check the box office to see what shows are taking place during your visit.
  5. Venture to Tillamook Head, about 15 minutes from the resort, to see if you can spot Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. The deactivated lighthouse was first lit in 1881 after years of work and delays due to storms and harsh weather.

You never know what other attractions you might stumble upon, so keep your eyes peeled for unique sights while exploring.

Plan a Memorable Cannon Beach Escape

Before you can have a relaxing getaway to Cannon Beach, there’s some work that has to be done. One is researching what to see and do on the Oregon Coast near town. The other is reserving your stay at Tolovana Inn.

The spacious suites and rooms at our oceanfront hotel are ideal for any getaway. Enjoy the comforts of home, like a living room, full kitchen, and fireplace, by staying in one of our suites or studios. To learn more about our resort or its amenities, including a sauna and complimentary morning coffee, call 503-436-2211. We can also answer any questions you have about our special offers.

3 Reasons to Celebrate the Holiday Season in Cannon Beach

Give your loved ones an unforgettable and unbeatable gift this holiday season and celebrate the season at the Tolovana Inn on Cannon Beach. Our spacious oceanfront accommodations present the perfect opportunity to let all of your worries melt away so that you can focus on what really matters: spending quality time with family and friends. Luckily for you, there are several benefits to spending the holidays at our Oregon Coast resort. 

1. Take Advantage of Our Cannon Beach Holiday Special Offers

We have great news for you and anyone else who loves our Cannon Beach hotel. Make huge savings on your holiday retreat to the Tolovana Inn with our assortment of special packages. You can even invite family members or friends to join your seasonal getaway to our Oregon coast resort and give them a holiday gift card. You’re sure to fall in love with the stunning natural scenery and tranquility that envelops the Pacific Northwest Coastline and share that joy with family and friends. 

2. Indulge in a Stress-Free Seasonal Getaway

During the colder months, Cannon Beach becomes the perfect place for a serene seasonal vacation. Spend your holiday relaxing at our Oregon Beach resort. There’s no need to worry about meal planning, putting up decorations, or cleaning the house. When you’re not hosting for the holidays, you’ll have a lot more time to bond with loved ones. There are fewer crowds, beautiful sunsets, and plenty of exciting area activities near our Cannon Beach resort during the holiday season.   

3. Holiday Events & Other Winter Oregon Coast Activities

If you love engaging in community holiday festivities, you’re in luck. Throughout December, you can enjoy the Haystack Holidays with its myriad scheduled events and go on a Cannon Beach shopping spree. Bask in the glow of the beautiful Christmas lights, soak in the splendor of a stunning sunset, and enjoy all of the exciting things to do in Cannon Beach in winter.

Celebrate the Season at our Cannon Beach Hotel

Treat your loved ones to an unforgettable holiday season at the Tolovana Inn. Our spacious accommodations are the perfect place to enjoy spectacular ocean views, join in the local festivities, and bond with friends and family. To learn more about our special seasonal offers or make a reservation, please give us a call at 1-800-333-8890. Our resourceful staff is happy to help.

 

 

Trails and More: A Guide to Ecola State Park

There’s no better way to enjoy some R&R than to plan a memorable but relaxing vacation. Booking your stay at Tolovana Inn is the perfect way to accomplish this. Our oceanfront resort is found just south of downtown Cannon Beach, making it the ideal home base for any getaway. No matter when you’re visiting, from colorful fall to the magic season of winter, there is no shortage of things to do and see. From picturesque trails to incredible scenery, there is plenty to discover in Ecola State Park.

When creating your itinerary of memorable adventures, checking out local state parks is a must. It only takes about 15 minutes to drive from our Cannon Beach hotel to this breathtaking state park. Whether you’re vacationing with kids or just the two of you, this Oregon park is a favorite amongst visitors of all ages.

  • One of the biggest things that draw people to the park is the stunning hiking trails. Make your way along the .6-mile Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Loop for an easy hike. Other popular paths include the Clatsop Loop Trail and Indian Beach Trail.
  • Take in the stunning views found all over the park. The entrance itself takes you through a lush Sitka spruce forest. Take photos of the sea stacks on the southern shoreline or the views from the grassy bluff.
  • Watch surfers try to catch waves from the sandy shores of Indian Beach. This secluded area is also an excellent spot for tidepooling and beach combing.
  • If you find yourself visiting in the winter or spring, be sure to head to the park to enjoy a bit of whale watching. Gray whales start their winter migration in mid-December and will begin traveling north again in late March. Some whales stay in Oregon’s waters year-round.
  • Whales are just one animal you can spot from Ecola State Park. The grounds are also home to other animals like deer, elk, and countless birds.

To enter the park, you must purchase a day-use parking permit.

Enjoy a Nature-Filled Oregon Getaway

If you’re looking to surround yourself with stunning Oregon scenery, head to Ecola State Park and hike along one of the trails. After a long day filled with memorable adventures, relax in comfort back at Tolovana Inn. Our resort, found on the sandy shores of Cannon Beach, has everything you need to enjoy a relaxing escape.

Our spacious accommodations are perfect for everyone, from families to couples. You will also find a number of amenities designed to enhance your stay like a fitness center and an indoor pool. Call 503-436-2211 to learn more about how to save on your stay or to book your accommodations.

 

Experience an Oregon Winter with a Cannon Beach Escape

Winter at the beach

Winter doesn’t have to mean gray skies and endless snow. In Cannon Beach, winter is a unique and magical time to visit this Oregon town and Tolovana Inn. Summer crowds have long since gone home, but there is still plenty to do and see in our beach town. Whether you’re planning a trip for the family or an escape for two, now is the perfect time to start creating your adventure-filled itinerary.

What to Do When Visiting Cannon Beach in the Winter

Winter is often referred to as the magic season in Oregon. Temperatures reach highs in the low 50s, with lows rarely falling below the mid-30s. While these conditions mean you’ll still want to layer up, it’s not so cold that you can’t get out and explore.

Some of the area’s top activities are best enjoyed in winter, and there are also plenty of seasonally festive events to check out.

Holiday Festivities

The holiday season is often filled with memorable gatherings, and your visit to Cannon Beach doesn’t have to be any different. If you’re visiting over Thanksgiving, get out and do some shopping on Plaid Friday. The shops found throughout town have it all, from boutiques to gift shops, so you won’t have any trouble crossing things off your list.

There are several more events that make up Haystack Holidays, including wreath-making classes, holiday concerts, and more. The event website will be updated with new information as it becomes available.

Storm Watching

One of the most popular activities for those visiting Cannon Beach in the winter is storm watching. Chances are you can watch a storm roll in from the comfort of our Oregon Coast hotel. However, another popular spot is Ecola State Park. If you decide to head outdoors, stay safe by watching out for sneaker waves and staying off rocks and jetties.

After the storm passes, head out to the sandy shoreline to go beachcombing. The wind and waves are known to unearth a treasure trove of shells and other hidden surprises.

Whale Watching

Cannon Beach is home to two fantastic whale watching seasons, and one of them is in the winter. Winter migration generally reaches peak from mid-December to mid-January. During this time, Oregon State Parks coordinate programs at several spots along the coast, including Ecola State Park, to help you spot these stunning animals.

Reserve Your Winter Visit to the Pacific Northwest

If you’re still looking for your winter vacation destination, look no further than Cannon Beach, Oregon. This popular oceanfront town is a favorite amongst travelers any time of year, and there’s no better place to call home than Tolovana Inn.

Found just south of downtown, our resort features spacious oceanfront rooms and suites that are perfect for any group. Enjoy the comforts of home, like a full kitchen and cozy fireplace, by staying in one of our studios and suites. For more information about our accommodations and amenities or special offers, call 503-436-2211.

  

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