Within sight of Haystack Rock, the town holds one of the largest sandcastle contests on the West Coast. Cannon Beach's Sandcastle Day takes place in mid-June when sculptors go to work in the morning only to have their creations swallowed by the surf by mid-afternoon.
The Cannon Beach History Center and Museum , 1387 S. Spruce St., offers displays detailing the history of Cannon Beach and the surrounding area. Other exhibits examine early mail delivery procedures, the blackout of Cannon Beach during World War II for fear of invasion, and the 1964 tsunami caused by the Good Friday earthquake in Alaska; phone (503) 436-9301.
Visitor Centers
Cannon Beach Visitor Center and Chamber of Commerce 207 N. Spruce St. Cannon Beach, OR 97110. Phone:(503)436-2623
Shopping
Hemlock Street has a variety of specialty shops featuring glass blowing, clothing, arts and crafts.