Cannon Beach is a long, open beach most famous for Haystack Rock, which is an apartment building-size rock that juts right out of the surf halfway down the beach.  The surfing here is ok but shifty, better to go to the alternative spots listed below, especially on a windy blown out day. 

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Surf

Break Type:  Beach

Gear: Thick Wetsuit, Hood, Gloves, Boots

Ambience:  Big open beach, crowded in summer.  

Main Surf Spot:  The Needles - just south of Haystack Rock.

Link to current conditions: Magic Seaweed

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Logistics

Public Parking:  Yes.  Parking Located Here or find street parking

Public Showers:  No.  

Public Restrooms:  Yes.  Restrooms located here.

Transportation:  Need a car.

Nearest Airport:  Portland, OR, USA  (PDX)

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Alternative Surf Spots

The best surf spot in this area is Smugglers Cove - about 15 minute drive south of Cannon Beach.  You walk from the parking lot 1/2 mile to the beach through old-growth forest.  It's a beautiful spot for your non-surfers to explore as well - lots of hiking and tidepools to explore.  Park here and follow the signs to Short Sands Trail all the way to the beach.  There are restrooms in the parking lot.

 

15 minutes north of Cannon Beach is another great spot, Indian Beach.  It costs $5 to enter this area but it's worth it.  Park at Ecola State Park and it's a short walk to the beach.  There are restrooms in the parking lot.

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Area

Best Lodging:

Tolovana Inn - basic rooms right next to the beach.

Best Food:

Lots of restaurants to choose from in town.  There is great little supermarket here.