Capping Either End of Cannon Beach: Two Different Charmers of the N. Oregon Coast

Published 03/03/26 at 6:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Cannon Beach, Oregon) – There's a curious little aspect of many Oregon coast burghs that few know. As if a thematic thing running through them: quite often the best of their beaches lie at the extreme northern and southern ends. Certainly their least-populated strands tend to happen this way. (Above: Ecola Creek as seen from Schooner's Cove Inn)

In Cannon Beach, it's just south of the Tolovana area and the stretch just north of downtown. Neither of which really seem to have district names, the northern section gets empty fast the farther you get from the creek, while the southern part takes you to eye-popping secrets. Up north, you bump into Chapman Point and where the town's beaches end (unless extreme tides let you into Crescent Beach). At the other end, you leave civilization behind and head into the geological and even mystic wonders of Silver Point. Silver Point, near Cannon Beach, Oregon Coast: Complete Guide

Either way, you're at the end of Cannon Beach – or its beginning. Depends on how you think about it.

And like a pair of bookends, two of its more engaging places to stay cap either end as well. The Wayside Inn hovers just above the Tolovana Beach area, while Schooner's Cove Inn is like a gateway to the slightly hidden beaches around Ecola Creek.

At a bend in the beach where sand meets a long stretch of stream, Cannon Beach suddenly serves up a bit of an architectural surprise. Schooner's Cove Inn rises three stories above 3rd Street with a run of A-frame angles and wood textures that feel part modern art, part Oregon-coast comfy. It's a little regal yet has that downhome texture – one that lights up nicely with the sunset.

Most rooms here face the ocean, and so does the inn's spa, wrapped in rustic wood and framing a knockout view. The beachfront lawn is a summer standout, dotted with loungers, picnic tables, and barbecues. Then there's winter here. When storms roll in, waves can slam right up against the seawall, turning the lawn's edge into a front-row seat for nature's theatrics.

Every so often, during extreme conditions, those waves reach the seawall itself - an Oregon coast thrill for anyone watching.

Those are two archetypal Oregon coast road trip elements right there.

Just steps away, the stream flowing into the Pacific marks a major moment in American history. Lewis & Clark, Sacagawea, and their party trekked here in 1806 to inspect a beached whale and trade with local tribes. The whale-themed statue and gazebo commemorate that salty chapter.

Inside, Schooner's Cove leans upscale while staying approachable. It caters to couples looking for a romantic stay as well as families or groups needing more space. Amenities include gas fireplaces in most rooms, kitchen units, free Wi-Fi, an elevator, a handicapped-accessible room, decks with sweeping views that include Haystack Rock, a guest laundry, and beach toys and blankets for kids - or anyone feeling like one. 188 North Larch Street, Cannon Beach, Oregon. (800) 843-0128. Schooner’s Cove Inn,

The Wayside Inn has become one of Cannon Beach's standout pet-friendly hotels, and reviews frequently highlight just how dog-welcoming it is. Guests with pups receive gift baskets stocked with towels, a bowl, and a treat - small touches that go a long way.

And the Wayside has a way of being surprisingly easy on the wallet. It's also known for its easy-going rates.

Every room faces the ocean, and while the inn isn't directly on the sand, the surf still provides a steady soundtrack. Storm season adds extra drama, with breakers sometimes reaching the edge of the parking-lot embankment. It's a striking vantage point for watching the coast's winter moods.

The inn also features a coveted heated indoor pool and hot tub. Its location puts guests close to the Warren House Pub, two small markets, and long stretches of beach. Haystack Rock and its Needles are an easy walk away, offering one of Oregon's most iconic views.

Upper floors come with balconies, ground floors with patios, and throughout the property you'll spot the resident bunnies that have become part of the Wayside's charm.

3339 S. Hemlock Street, Cannon Beach, Oregon, 888-659-6397. www.thewayside-inn.com

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