That’s because this small, artsy town is one of the most beloved coastal getaways for dog owners in the Pacific Northwest, thanks to its easygoing attitude, dramatic coastal scenery, and the sheer number of visiting pups trotting down the sand at any given hour.
The beach itself is the main attraction. Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and misty, moody light, when you’ll mostly share the shoreline with locals on quiet walks and a few determined ball-chuckers. Hold off until the day gets a bit warmer if you want a more dog-party-like environment under the squawking gulls, with kids building sandcastles and dogs weaving between beach chairs. On windy days, the packed sand becomes a racetrack for high-energy breeds, and low tide reveals a huge expanse of shoreline where even the most enthusiastic fetch sessions are welcome.
Photos: Allard One/Shutterstock, Bob Pool/Shutterstock, and Cavan Images/Shutterstock
Dogs can’t enter the protected area directly surrounding Haystack Rock, but they’re welcome everywhere else along the sand, so it’s easy to keep them just outside the roped-off zone while still enjoying the view. Leash up briefly if your dog is curious or has a strong prey drive around birds, as there are plenty of gulls, sandpipers, and even the occasional puffin, depending on the season.
Off the beach, many of the town’s cafes and boutiques set out water bowls, and dogs are allowed on many of the patios throughout the village, including at breweries (try the much-loved Pelican Brewing or Public Coast Brewing for beer and seafood), coffee shops, and casual seafood spots. Some shops even keep jars of dog treats behind the counter, so a well-behaved sit can pay off. Don’t be surprised by the number of sandy paws all around from the dogs who spent their morning on the shore. It’s part of the charm, and most businesses are well prepared with towels or outdoor hoses for a quick rinse.
Nearby parks like Ecola State Park offer stunning cliffside hikes overlooking the Pacific, and while dogs must be leashed, the views on the short trails are worth it. On clear days, you can see the long curve of coastline you were just walking, and on foggy days, the trees and sea stacks take on an almost storybook feel. Pack a light jacket, as coastal weather can shift quickly, and be prepared for muddy paws if it’s been raining.
One of the perks of staying in Cannon Beach is how compact and walkable it is. Most hotels and vacation rentals are only a few minutes from the beach by foot, so sandy exercise and play doesn’t require getting in the car. Equally easy are late-night bathroom breaks, as simple as a quick stroll down the street. Cannon Beach’s dog-friendly rules remain consistent year-round, so you don’t have to plan your trip around a narrow season. Winter storms bring dramatic waves and quieter beaches, while summer offers long golden evenings perfect for one last walk. Rain or shine, dogs are always welcome here — and they seem to know it.
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Surfsand rolls out the red carpet for pups with a Bone Appetit Bistro stocked with toys and treats, plus pet packages with bowls, blankets, towels, and more. It’s only a quick walk from Haystack Rock.
Hallmark feels like a true dog resort, with welcome goodies, a big grassy area, a dog-washing station, and quick beach access so you can go from napping to romping in minutes.
Select rooms at the Inn at Cannon Beach are dog-friendly, and, in keeping with other resorts in the area, welcomes dogs with goodies and has a paw wash so sand doesn’t follow you into the rooms at night.
Land’s End is a slightly more casual boutique hotel, also sitting on the sand and accommodating pups with a wash station, dog blankets, towels, and treats. 