Oregon Coast Scenery Provides Backdrop for New Disney Animated Film

When you see “Far from the Tree,” a new Disney animated short film, you might notice the scenery looks familiar.

The film’s backdrop resembles the Oregon coast. Offshore, you’ll even see an animated image of Cannon Beach’s iconic Haystack Rock.

That’s because the seven-minute film was written and directed by Natalie Nourigat, who grew up in Portland.  In creating the film, she drew inspiration from her own recollection of childhood visits to the Oregon coast.

In an interview with NPR’s “All Things Considered,” Nourigat, said “Far From the Tree” was “based on something really personal.  She recalled, “growing up in Oregon, going to the beach with my family and how special it was just to all be together.”

The story centers upon a parent and child raccoon who ventures from their forest home to explore a Pacific Northwest shoreline filled with new and engaging sights, smells, and sounds.

The child raccoon joyfully explores the beach, from tidepools and seashells to puffins and seagulls. Yet, while the child raccoon romps, the parent warns of the dangers amid the beauty.

After the shared adventures, including clam digging, the two return to their home in the woods. They reflect on the shared day over a treasured seashell brought home as a souvenir.

In that way, the story mirrors how so many people wind down after a memorable visit to the magical Oregon coast.

The charming film ends with a dedication  “to parents everywhere who are doing their very best….thank you.“

You can enjoy the film now in theatres or streaming on Disney+.

You can enjoy the Oregon coast and Haystack Rock in person anytime, especially from an oceanfront room at Tolovana Inn.

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.

Here are two great parks near Tolovana Inn to check out.

Ecola State Park

Upon entering Ecola State Park, travelers 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, tide-pooling and  many trails for hiking.  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.

Hiking near Cannon Beach

Walkway at Oswald State Park

 

Oswald West State Park

Set aside time to explore the untouched forestry of Oswald West State Park just five miles south of Tolovana Inn. The park features sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches, and the Oregon Coast Trail that offers a ai 13-mile-long meandering trail through the park.

Many hiking trails are located throughout the park so bring a camera. You’ll encounter massive western red cedars, beautiful green ferns, and red huckleberry.  During your your peaceful walk, you’ll be lulled by the sounds of the rolling waves of the ocean

Indoor Salt Water

Indoor Salt Water

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oceanfront Cannon Beach Lodging

After a day out hiking, come back to relax at Tolovana Inn in the saltwater indoor pool  that features a hot tub and sauna. The welcoming staff at Tolovana Inn will help with reservations and can answer any questions travelers may have.

Haystack Holidays in Cannon Beach: The Spirit of the Season!

The picturesque village of Cannon Beach lit up festively for the season.

 

Haystack Holidays is a collection of delightful special events in Cannon Beach that will warm your heart. Get into the spirit of the season at events for all ages! 

Between the shopping and special events,  you can enjoy the spectacular Oregon Coast during a season like no other.  Make Tolovana Inn your home away from home, with spacious suites and cozy fireplaces. 

 Annual events include the Lamp Lighting Ceremony, Pictures with Santa, and  Special Concerts.   The Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce has all the details.

 

Great Idea for Mom: A Gift Certificate to Tolovana Inn

An ideal gift for your amazing mom.

Between work and home, the average mom works two full-time jobs each week.

All the more reason to make Mother’s Day extra special for your own amazing mom.  You know, the kindly woman who claims she never needs or wants anything but loves whenever you show the littlest amount of thought.

Or, treat your mother-in-law, because why stop trying to make a good impression on her?

Every Mother’s Day you can tell your mom how special she is with a unique gift that will warm her heart. But, please, not another candle or scarf.  This year, instead of more stuff, give her the gift of a memorable getaway to the magical Oregon coast.

Your Presence, not Presents

The solution for an ideal Mother’s Day gift is a Tolovana Inn gift card. Gift cards don’t expire, so she can use them any time of the year    Like this upcoming sunny weekend, or any other time of year when she can get away.

Just think how much she’ll enjoy strolling along the sandy shoreline near Haystack Rock. Or browsing through the distinctive shops and galleries in town.  Or sipping an Oregon wine or ale from the balcony of an oceanfront room, just steps to the sand?

There are plenty of fun things to do in and around Cannon Beach.  Or not to do.   With the pace she keeps, Mom just might appreciate a chance to sleep in or catnap with the patio door open. She will be enveloped by the fresh smell of salty sea air

Send mom off to the coast either alone, with dad, or her BFFs.    All the better if you can join her.  Most Moms will tell you, it’s your presence, not presents she really wants.  This way you can give her both.

To purchase a Tolovana Inn Gift Card, call the front desk, at 503 436-2211,

Father’s Day: Spend time together

A walk with Dad along the beach.

Father’s Day was established to honor all fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who have influenced your life.

Father’s Day is regularly observed on the third Sunday of June.

Sure, you can send a card, buy him tools, gadgets, or a new polo shirt, but you know that dad really wants is to spend time with you.

Why not surprise him with a trip to Cannon Beach and a stay in an oceanfront room at Tolovana Inn?   Reserve your room today, or order gift certificates for a future stay.

Father’s Day was first noted in June 1910 in Spokane, Washington at the YMCA.  Sonora Smart Dodd told her pastor she thought fathers should have a day of recognition like Mother’s did.   She was inspired by her own father who raised six children as a single parent.  Her pastor agreed as did his colleagues.  On the third Sunday in June 19, 1910, “sermons honoring fathers were presented throughout the city.”

Despite several initiatives, including merchant-driven efforts that were greeted with some cynicism, it took several decades for Father’s Day to be fully recognized.  President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers, in 1966,  designating the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day.    Six years later, the day was made a permanent national holiday when President Richard Nixon signed it into law in 1972.

History aside, fathers are critical and spending time with the men in your life who matter is a great tradition to uphold.

 

Cannon Beach first among “10 Beaches That Are Better in the Off Season”

Accordinbeach fireg to a recent online article in The Huffington Post, Cannon Beach tops the list of the 10 Beaches That Are Better in the Off Season.    Key reasons cited are smaller crowds, empty swaths of sandy beaches and lower lodging rates in September and beyond.

Specifically, the article points out how Cannon Beach visitors can cozy up into the evening with a twilight bonfire and a fine bottle of wine to watch some of the year’s most incredible sunsets.    Unlike other beaches, there is no rule against alcohol on the Oregon coastline.

Exploring the tide pools at Haystack Rock was also highlighted.  And, it goes on to point out that the wildlife really comes out when the crowds disperse, with lots of bird watching along the shore and at neighboring Ecola State Park where visitors can watch for elk and migrating grey whales offshore.

Storm chasers are advised that that fall and winter’s unpredictable weather that can bring crashing waves, best enjoyed from an oceanfront hotel.   Fortunately, Tolovana Inn’s ocean front rooms and suites are perfect for that.

Other notable beaches highlighted in the article include  Moshup Beach,  Massachusetts, near Martha’s Vineyard, Kennebunk Beach, in Maine,  Sunset Beach, North Carolina and  Pfeiffer Beach, California’s Highway 1, near Big Sur.  Rounding out the list are Shi Shi Beach, in the Olympic National Park, WA; Mackinac Island, Michigan; Cove Beach, New Jersey and Malaquite Beach, Texas on the Gulf of Mexico.

 

Haystack Rock Tidepools part of National Wildlife Refuge

 

Exploring the tide pools around nearby Haystack Rock is an inviting summer activity for guests of Tolovana Inn at Cannon Beach.

 An iconic natural landmark, Haystack Rock is actually designated a protected Marine Gardesb10068250tt-001n and National Wildlife Refuge.  And, the Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) provides both staff and volunteers daily throughout the summer to guide beachcombers and answer questions about the natural world.

HRPA is actually a stewardship and environmental education program whose mission is to protect Haystack Rock, and the intertidal and bird ecology surround it.   Each day, members set up an extensive interpretive program including signs and educational brochures, bird stations with spotting scopes and often times, microscopes too.

To be a good s6889142046_alternateteward, visitors are reminded that the intertidal areas around Haystack Rock are fragile ecosystems.  Guests are encouraged to tread lightly around the tide pools and stay on sand or small bare rock to avoid stepping on vulnerable animals like anemones and barnacles.    Be gentle as you observe wildlife in its natural state, being sure to leave the natural environment undisturbed.

Since its inception im1985, the HRPA has educated hundreds of thousand adults and children about this amazing island and the marine-related life around it, protecting it each day, and for generations to come.

Haystack Rock

Perfect place for exploring tidepools