Exciting Things to Do in Cannon Beach This Fall

Bill's Tavern Brewhouse at Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach, in the fall, is one of the coziest coastal towns in all of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re ducking into the downtown shops, enjoying a local show or festival, experiencing the wild and wonderous outdoors, or spending quality time with the family, there’s always something happening that will make your visit memorable.

From unique annual events like the Stormy Weather Arts Festival to whale-watching off the coast, this time of year shines with local luster and charm. As you plan your upcoming travel, check out all the exciting things to do in Cannon Beach this fall, and be sure to add some of these recommendations to your itinerary!

Explore Nature in Cannon Beach This Fall
 

Ecola State Park in Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is home to one of the country’s most iconic rock formations: Haystack Rock. In addition to seeing this natural wonder firsthand, several state parks provide even more stunning glimpses of the coastline. Visit Ecola State Park and enjoy gorgeous hiking trails that provide panoramic views of Sitka Spruce forests, crashing waves, and coastal mountains.

At Hug Point State Park, you’ll find sandstone caves, waterfalls, and tidal pools teeming with marine life. The kids will love exploring at low tide and learning all about the local ecosystems. It’s also a great spot for scenic beach walks with wide, expansive shores that back up to verdant hills of ferns, spruce trees, and salal shrubs.

If you’re visiting in late fall, you may even catch a glimpse of the magnificent gray whales as you wander these state parks. While they’re typically spotted from mid-December to mid-January, a late November breach isn’t out of the realm of possibility. So, bring the binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for one of nature’s greatest sights.

Small Town Charm with Unique Fall Experiences

Our beloved beach town is perfect for unique fall experiences. From the charming independently owned shops along Main Street to local entertainment and community events, it’s the perfect spot to visit with your family.

If you’re traveling with little ones, be sure to check out the Coaster Theatre Kidz performance of an original musical, Haystack Rocks, Sunday, November 3, 2024. The play introduces the audience to the native birds and marine animals that live on Haystack Rock and is a great follow-up to your visits to the state parks.

If you’re in town over Halloween, be sure to bring a costume so you can take part in the Cannon Beach Treat Trail! Perfect for adults and kids, this annual celebration takes place in the shops of downtown Cannon Beach from 2 PM to 5 PM, allowing you to visit local businesses while enjoying a fun and safe vacation outing.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir or taking in the local scene, these unique fall experiences in Cannon Beach offer a glimpse into what makes our community so special.

Celebrate Cannon Beach’s Fall Festivals
 

blurry picture of fall colored leaves with people outside for an event
As with any small town, especially those along the Oregon coast, Cannon Beach has a unique vibe and personality that make it a truly special place. Named one of the 100 best art towns in America, the local shops and community events tend to center around the creative community with a focus on theater, visual art, and culinary celebrations. If you’re visiting this fall, be sure to check out some of our favorite fall festivals.

Savor Cannon Beach Wine & Culinary Festival

This celebration of wine and food includes exclusive tastings, educational seminars, wine-pairing dinners, and private after-hours gatherings. Typically held Thursday through Sunday during the month of October, it’s a community-wide event that highlights the best of Oregon’s wine and culinary scene.

Stormy Weather Arts Festival

For one of the most popular things to do in Cannon Beach this fall, look no further than this beloved festival that’s been a community highlight for almost 40 years. The Stormy Weather Arts Festival takes place on the first weekend in November and showcases renowned local, regional, and national artists. Enjoy live music, thought-provoking gallery shows, art classes, and more when you attend any of the exciting festival events.

Cannon Beach Home for the Holidays

Whether you’re looking to start a new tradition of getting away for Thanksgiving or it’s something your family already does, there’s no better place than Cannon Beach. Cook up an exquisite feast in your Beachcomber vacation rental, or spare yourself the shopping and clean up and go out for a delicious homecooked meal at the Wayfarer Restaurant.

Thanksgiving weekend also kicks off Haystack Holidays in Cannon Beach! A series of festive events that take place through Christmas. The schedule includes holiday light shows, craft fairs, holiday bazaars, wreath-making classes, special theater performances, and, of course, plenty of shopping events. Stock up on one-of-a-kind presents and support the local makers of Cannon Beach when you visit in late fall.

Book Your Fall Vacation to Cannon Beach

living room of Cannon Beach vacation rental

Featured Property: Lighthouse

We’ve said it before: there’s never a bad season to visit Cannon Beach. While fall may bring more overcast skies, there’s also something romantic about the cool, gray days. Plus, when you get that breakthrough of sunshine, it’s even more spectacular. As you research all the exciting things to do in Cannon Beach this fall, picture yourself making memories that will last a lifetime.

Enjoy a fall getaway filled with coastal magic when you book a Cannon Beach vacation rental directly with Beachcomber Vacation Homes. Our selection ranges from historic cottages to pet-friendly properties with an oceanfront view, so there’s something for every family and budget. Plus, our local team is available to assist you with everything from checking in to planning fun outings during your stay. Browse our complete list of Cannon Beach vacation rentals and book your fall vacation directly today!