Things to see and do between Cannon Beach and Manzanita
Thinking about driving along the Oregon Coast Highway from Cannon Beach to Manzanita? The easy 15-mile drive unveils a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. As you cruise southward along Highway 101, each stop promises breathtaking vistas and captivating experiences, making this drive an essential for any visitor to the Oregon Coast. Here’s a list of things to see and do on your drive from Cannon Beach to Manzanita:
Silver Point:
Your odyssey begins with a quick stop at the Silver Point viewpoint, a perfect vantage point to bid farewell to the charming allure of Cannon Beach, while feasting your eyes on the iconic silhouette of Haystack Rock against the backdrop of Ecola State Park that lies to the north. The rock at Silver Point is known as “Jockey Cap.”
Arcadia Beach:
As you continue southward, the underrated Arcadia Beach beckons with its peculiar Lion Rock and captivating tidepools, offering a serene respite for contemplation. It’s a great spot for a quick stretch or a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon.
Hug Point:
Venturing further south, the allure of Hug Point awaits, a beloved destination renowned for its caverns and cascading waterfall. However, arriving early is paramount, as the summer sun draws crowds to its sandy shores, leaving parking lots brimming with eager visitors.
Arch Cape Tunnel:
Traversing through the historic Arch Cape tunnel, a relic from the past, marks a transition into the realm of Oswald West State Park. Before its completion in 1940, Arch Cape was the end of the road. P.S. The rock off the coast of Arch Cape is known as “Castle Rock.”
Cape Falcon Trail:
Once inside Oswald West State Park, Cape Falcon Trail invites intrepid hikers to delve into its verdant embrace, rewarding their efforts with panoramic coastal panoramas. Note: During the winter months, this trail (like many Oregon Coast trails) can get quite muddy/sloppy.
Short Sand Beach:
Just a few yards past the Cape Falcon parking lot is Short Sand Beach, which entices surf enthusiasts with its rolling waves and serene ambiance, accessible via tranquil woodland trails and Short Sand Creek. It’s an easy walk down to the beach through an old-growth forest, but these parking lots get busy during the summer months.
Neahkahnie and Devil’s Cauldron/Elk Flats Trails:
A short distance away lies a parking area serving as a gateway to Neahkahnie's hiking trails, offering two distinct paths — one leading towards the majestic Devil's Cauldron (heads west toward the ocean) and the other ascending the verdant slopes of Neahkahnie Mountain. Both trails promise awe-inspiring vistas and an intimate connection with nature's splendor. Devil’s Cauldron is a shorter hike down to cliffs along the ocean.
Neahkahnie Viewpoint:
If you’re not in the mood or don’t have time for a hike, drive another hundred yards or so to Neahkahnie viewpoint. You’ll be greeted with a spectacle of unparalleled beauty, as the vast expanse of the ocean merges seamlessly with the quaint charm of Manzanita and Nehalem Bay below. This is a popular spot for whale watching.
Arriving in Manzanita:
Finally, as the journey draws to a close, the charming town of Manzanita welcomes weary travelers with open arms, just a stone's throw away from the Neahkahnie viewpoint. Here, amidst the quaint streets and sandy shores, one finds solace in the embrace of coastal tranquility, marking the culmination of an unforgettable expedition along the Oregon Coast.
Short Sand Beach is a popular stop along the drive from Cannon Beach to Manzanita on the Oregon Coast