Although it doesn't have the arcades and carnival-like attractions of neighboring Seaside, Cannon Beach remains a favorite family destination for locals and visitors alike.  

The beach is unparalleled on the Oregon coast, and with several in-town shops selling or renting beach-fun gear, families have many options for enjoying and exploring it. 

Do you want to brave the cold Pacific waters to surf or skimboard?  There are several rental locations in Cannon Beach; look for Cannon Beach Surf or Cleanline.  Three-wheeled beach fun-cycles?  Try Family Fun Cycles or Mike's Bikes.  Heck, you might find a del Sol beach cruiser for rent!  For the less active families, pick out a kite in one of several shops (Once Upon a Breeze is a personal fave), or a guide to help you explore the tide pools around Haystack Rock. 

You can even arrange a horseback ride on the beach through Sea Ranch Stables.  But maybe the favorite family beach activity is simply building a sand castle, or enjoying an evening campfire.  Fortunately (or not), you can find necessities for these activities in Cannon Beach stores as well.  As a side note, if you're REALLY into kite flying or sand castle building, you might plan your trip around the annual festivals for those activities. 

Off the beach, there are activities for family members of all ages.  You'll find several tennis courts near the public restrooms, a block inland from the main downtown street, and a skate park adjacent to those. 

And shopping?  Cannon Beach is known for it.  It's all here, from beach kitsch to fine art.  Kids will particularly appreciate Bruce's Candy Kitchen or any of several ice cream shops.  The entire family might enjoy a play at the Coaster Theater.  But who goes to the beach to play tennis, skate, or shop?  Much better that you take the family up to Ecola State Park, just north of town, where there are several miles of hiking trails, most with beautiful views of the dramatic Oregon coastline.  Don't forget your camera!

Though Cannon Beach is considered by some as one of the more sophisticated of Oregon's coastal communities, there are several options for a family-friendly meal.  Notable amongst those is Mo’s, located at the south end of town next to Tolovana Inn, and famous for its clam chowder.  Or try Morris' Fireside Restaurant, the log cabin building in the center of town.  Ecola Seafood Market is another good spot, though much more casual, and without the Haystack Rock views.  There are also options for pizza, and other casual fare, not to mention Haystack bread from a local bakery.  If you don't want to dine out, buy some fresh seafood - subliminal message: oysters - to enjoy back in your room or rental home.

All else aside, maybe the best endorsement for "Family Travel" in Cannon Beach is the number of memories (for this writer) created there.

Haystack Rock with Sea Grass

Lighthouse Rock and Cannon Beach sentry 

Views from the Hiking Trails at Ecola