In the summer of 2019, I took a week-long trip to the Pacific Northwest with a friend. Our first stop was Portland, Oregon. After a few days in the city, we rented a car and drove 1.5 hours towards the coast. The drive was filled with lush green trees and pockets of fogs. It was a clam and peaceful ride – a nice contrast from the boisterous city.

Ecola State Park
Our first stop was the Ecola State Park, just north of Cannon Beach. Once you enter the park, you’re transported back into prehistoric time. Windy roads are surrounded with mossy trees and life-size ferns. If you go, take your time and take in the scenery. It’s beautiful. After a small hike that left me with a skinned knee, we headed to Cannon Beach.

Cannon Beach
Before heading to the beach to see Haystack Rock, we walked through the city of Cannon Beach. The city was filled with small, cute storefronts. We stopped by Tom’s Fish & Chips to fill our stomach. The food was decent – not a standout – but good enough for a quick bite.

After lunch we parked in an open lot by Wayfarer Restaurant and walked along the sandy beach to the rock. Haystack Rock is surrounded by all walks of life: young, old, elderly and sea life. If you go, make sure to slow down and pay close attention. There are many hidden gems tucks away in the small cracks of the basalt object. If you don’t see it – don’t worry – someone will call it out.

After Haystack Rock we traveled south along the coast and stop by Sea Level Bakery & Coffee – which I highly recommend. If you have to make one stop by Cannon Beach, make sure it’s here. This quint and adorable coffee shop is an Instagram dream and equally delicious.

Effectively caffeinated for our drive back to Portland, we continued south and stopped by Arcadia Beach for a quick view before continuing the drive. We got to the city of Manzanita before heading back to Portland. If you get to spend a few days in Portland, I highly recommend renting a car and driving to the coast for a change of scenery. You won’t regret it.