Cannon Beach Oregon

Linda Wilson The Daily News

Ahhh, the beach. There is nothing quite like it for a weekend getaway, even if it's pouring rain.

Fortunately, we live just 90 minutes from one of the most spectacular beaches in the nation - Cannon Beach, Ore.

The town, which is nestled between the Coast Range and the ocean on Highway 101, gets its name from a cannon that washed ashore near Arch Cape following the wreck of the USS Schooner Shark on September 10, 1846.

Today, Cannon Beach is an eclectic mix of art galleries, restaurants, bookstores, flowers and dramatic scenery. Its only drawback is the burgeoning crowds that fill the town nearly every weekend. Nevertheless, the beach is big enough to easily absorb the mobs, and it is still possible to find relatively empty stretches, except during the famous Sand Castle Contest.

There is something for almost everyone in Cannon Beach, whether you are the outdoors type, like to shop till you drop, or prefer a gourmet meal and a good bookstore. Here are some highlights:

Haystack Rock - This basalt monolith, which rises 235 feet above the beach, is home to a wide variety of birds and marine life. At low tide you are allowed to gently pick your way around the rocks and tide pools for close-up views of multicolored starfish, crabs and chitons. During the summer months, volunteers with the Haystack Awareness Program provide free interpretive talks on intertidal life. For a schedule, stop by the Chamber of Commerce at 201 E. Second St.

Sand Castle Day - Thousands of people gather each year to watch amateur and professional artists build elaborate and whimsical scenes out of sand. This year's contest will take place on June 13. Registration packets are available from the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 64, Cannon Beach, Ore. 97110, or by calling (503) 436-2623. If you plan to attend and want to stay overnight, make your reservations now.

Ecola State Park - This 1,300-acre park at the north end of town offers some breathtaking views of the beach, as well as of Tillamook Lighthouse, which is built on Tillamook Rock, a mile and a quarter out to sea. There are also picnic and barbecue facilities. Vehicles entering the park are charged a $3 fee. A $25 annual pass to all day-use parks in the Oregon State Parks system is also available.

Flowers - During the last few years, Cannon Beach merchants have made a concerted effort to decorate their downtown with flowers. Garden lovers will pick up plenty of ideas by just strolling along the sidewalks and through the courtyards.

Cannon Beach is a shopaholics' paradise. There are more than 130 businesses offering everything from homemade fudge to upscale art. Here are just a few. All are located on Hemlock Street in downtown Cannon Beach.

White Bird Gallery - One of the largest galleries in town, the White Bird offers one of the most unusual collections. You will find a stunning combination of fanciful ceramics, fused glass, paintings, sculpture, jewelry and cards.

M. Sellin Ltd. - You can't beat this store for good quality, cotton clothing for women.

The Buttery - Entering this kitchen store is a bit like reading a Martha Stewart magazine, but it's always fun to look.

Cannon Beach Book Company - This may be close to the perfect bookstore. It has a large collection of contemporary literature and a knowledgeable staff. Check out the two tables on the left as you go in the door - one has best sellers, the other has terrific but often little-known books. I never come away from this store empty- handed.

It has taken years for good food to catch on in Cannon Beach, but there are now a number of interesting restaurants from which to choose. The guidebooks often mention two of the fanciest places in town - Cafe de la Mer and The Bistro, both good choices for a classy meal. But for those whose tastes run to simpler fare, here are a few suggestions:

Heather's - This tiny lunch spot at the north end of town is owned by a former Seattle-area couple. It started out as an espresso bar, but branched out into food. The menu is made up of gourmet soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts. Be sure to try Wayne's special grilled cheese sandwich with peppers.

Lazy Susan Cafe - The best way to describe this restaurant might be vegetarian with meat. The menu has a decidedly wholesome bent, with a dash of curry and chutney on the side. The wait to get in, especially for weekend breakfasts, can be quite long.

The Midtown Cafe - Located in the rapidly expanding midtown area, this brightly colored restaurant serves up a hearty breakfast. There are usually several specials, as well as home-baked desserts. Check out the salt and pepper shakers on each table.

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