If you’re staying in a family-friendly condo at Cannon Beach, Oregon, you’re in for a treat! Not only do you have the comforts of home, but you’re also steps away from plenty of fun for the whole family. Here are five specific activities that will keep your little ones entertained while you enjoy a relaxing coastal getaway.
1. Tide Pool Exploration at Haystack Rock
Just a short walk from most Cannon Beach condos, Haystack Rock is a natural playground for kids. At low tide, this iconic rock formation reveals vibrant tide pools full of sea life. Grab a guidebook from the Cannon Beach Visitor Center, and let your kids become marine biologists for the day! They’ll be thrilled to spot sea stars, anemones, and even tiny fish in the pools. Plus, the area is a protected marine sanctuary, so it’s a great way to teach them about conservation.
2. Sandcastle Building Contest
Cannon Beach’s expansive sandy shoreline is the ultimate sandbox! Set up a family sandcastle-building contest right outside your condo—no need to pack up for a long beach day when the ocean is at your doorstep. For extra fun, bring along molds, buckets, and toy construction tools to see who can create the most impressive castle. Be sure to time it with the tide so your masterpiece lasts as long as possible!
3. Hike to Crescent Beach
For families with kids who love a little adventure, take a hike from Ecola State Park to Crescent Beach. This kid-friendly trail (just under 1.5 miles) weaves through lush coastal forest and opens up to a secluded beach perfect for running around, exploring tide pools, and enjoying a picnic. The trailhead is only a 10-minute drive from Cannon Beach, so it’s easy to fit into your day.
4. Stop by Bruce’s Candy Kitchen
A trip to Cannon Beach wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Bruce’s Candy Kitchen! This colorful, old-fashioned candy store is a kid’s dream come true, with an array of saltwater taffy, chocolate treats, and fudge made on-site. Watch the candy-making process through the window, and let your kids pick out their favorite sweets to bring back to the condo for an afternoon treat.
5. Bonfire on the Beach
One of the best family activities in Cannon Beach is a bonfire at sunset. Head out to the sand right in front of your condo with some firewood, blankets, and marshmallows for roasting. Cozy up around the fire as the sun sets, and let the kids enjoy toasting s’mores while the waves crash in the distance. Be sure to follow local fire guidelines, and always extinguish your fire safely.
Bonus Tip: Rent Bikes and Cruise the Beach
Many local shops offer bike rentals, including fat-tire bikes perfect for cruising along the beach. It’s a fun and active way for the whole family to explore Cannon Beach together, and the kids will love the novelty of biking on sand!
With your family-friendly condo as the perfect home base, these activities are all within easy reach. Cannon Beach is full of adventure, from tide pool discoveries to sweet treats, and your family is sure to leave with unforgettable memories!
