Best Time to Visit Cannon Beach (Weather & Crowds)

Cannon Beach is a charming coastal town in Oregon known for its stunning shoreline, iconic Haystack Rock, and vibrant arts scene. It attracts visitors year-round who want to enjoy its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Choosing the right time to visit is important because weather, crowd sizes, and travel costs vary throughout the year.

The best time to visit Cannon Beach depends on what you want from your trip. If you prefer warm weather and lively events, summer might be ideal. For fewer crowds and lower prices, spring or fall could be better. Understanding seasonal changes helps you plan a trip that fits your style and budget.

Overall Best Time to Visit Cannon Beach

The most recommended months to visit Cannon Beach are June through September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and sunny, making it perfect for beach walks and outdoor activities. These months balance pleasant weather with manageable crowds and moderate prices.

This period is best for travelers who want to enjoy the outdoors comfortably without facing the busiest tourist times. Families, couples, and solo travelers often find this season ideal for exploring the town and nearby nature.

• June to September offers the warmest temperatures, usually between cool and comfortable, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing without extreme heat.

• Crowds increase during summer but remain less overwhelming than major city destinations, allowing you to enjoy attractions with some space.

• Prices for accommodations and dining tend to be higher than in off-season months but still reasonable compared to peak holiday periods.

• This season suits travelers who want a balance of good weather and lively local events without facing heavy tourist congestion.

Visiting during these months ensures you experience Cannon Beach at its most welcoming, with plenty of daylight and vibrant community activities.

Best Time to Visit Cannon Beach by Month

January

January in Cannon Beach is cold and often rainy, with fewer tourists around. The weather is cool, and the beach can be windy, making outdoor activities less comfortable. Prices are lower, and the town feels quiet.

• Weather is chilly and wet, with frequent rain showers and strong coastal winds that can limit outdoor plans.

• Crowds are very low, providing a peaceful experience for those who enjoy solitude and storm watching.

• Accommodation and travel costs are at their lowest, making it a budget-friendly month for visitors.

• This month suits travelers who prefer quiet stays and don’t mind cooler, wetter weather conditions.

January is best for travelers seeking solitude and low prices but not ideal for beach activities or outdoor adventures.

February

February remains cool and rainy, similar to January. The town is still quiet, and many attractions operate on limited hours. Prices stay low, and the weather can be unpredictable.

• Weather is cold with frequent rain, making outdoor plans challenging but manageable with proper gear.

• Crowds remain minimal, offering a calm and relaxed atmosphere for visitors.

• Travel and accommodation prices are low, appealing to budget travelers.

• February is good for those who want a peaceful retreat and don’t mind less predictable weather.

This month suits travelers who enjoy quiet coastal views and off-season rates but want to prepare for wet conditions.

March

March marks the transition to spring with slightly warmer temperatures and less rain. Crowds begin to increase slowly, and some local events start to pick up. Prices remain affordable.

• Weather improves with milder temperatures and occasional sunny days, though rain is still common.

• Crowds are light but growing as spring visitors arrive, making it easier to explore popular spots.

• Prices are still low to moderate, offering good value for accommodations and activities.

• March is suitable for travelers who want to avoid peak season but enjoy improving weather.

Visiting in March offers a balance of quiet surroundings and better weather, ideal for early spring trips.

April

April brings more sunshine and warmer days, with spring flowers blooming around town. Crowds increase moderately, and prices start to rise. Outdoor activities become more enjoyable.

• Weather is mild and pleasant, with more sunny days and less rain compared to winter months.

• Crowds grow but remain manageable, allowing comfortable exploration of beaches and trails.

• Prices begin to increase but are still reasonable compared to summer peak rates.

• This month suits travelers who want pleasant weather and fewer tourists than summer.

April is a good choice for visitors seeking spring charm and outdoor activities without heavy crowds.

May

May offers warmer weather and longer daylight hours. The town becomes livelier with more tourists arriving. Prices continue to rise but are still below summer peaks.

• Weather is warm and mostly dry, perfect for beach walks and outdoor sightseeing.

• Crowds increase as the tourist season approaches, but popular spots are not yet crowded.

• Accommodation and dining prices rise but remain affordable compared to July and August.

• May is ideal for travelers who want good weather and a lively atmosphere without peak season crowds.

Visiting in May allows you to enjoy Cannon Beach’s natural beauty before the busiest months.

June

June marks the start of the high season with warm, sunny weather and more visitors. The town hosts festivals and events, making it a vibrant time to visit. Prices rise accordingly.

• Weather is warm and mostly sunny, excellent for beach activities and outdoor events.

• Crowds increase significantly, especially on weekends and holidays, creating a lively atmosphere.

• Prices for accommodations and services rise due to higher demand.

• June suits travelers who want good weather and active local events but don’t mind more people.

This month is great for those who enjoy social activities and warm coastal days.

July

July is one of the busiest months with peak summer weather. The town is bustling with tourists, and prices are at their highest. Outdoor activities and festivals are in full swing.

• Weather is warmest and sunniest, ideal for beach time and outdoor adventures.

• Crowds are at their peak, which can make popular spots busy and accommodations harder to find.

• Prices are highest, reflecting peak demand for lodging and dining.

• July is best for travelers who want lively events and perfect beach weather despite crowds and costs.

Expect a vibrant but busy experience during this month, so plan ahead for accommodations.

August

August continues the peak summer season with similar weather and crowds as July. The town remains lively with many visitors enjoying the beach and local events. Prices stay high.

• Weather remains warm and sunny, great for all outdoor activities and beach visits.

• Crowds stay large, especially on weekends and holidays, leading to busy attractions.

• Accommodation and travel costs remain at peak levels.

• August suits travelers who want summer fun and don’t mind the busy atmosphere and higher prices.

This month is ideal for those focused on beach time and social events but requires early planning.

September

September marks the start of the shoulder season with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The weather is still pleasant, and prices begin to drop. It’s a quieter time to visit.

• Weather cools slightly but remains comfortable and often sunny, good for outdoor activities.

• Crowds decrease as summer visitors leave, making it easier to enjoy attractions peacefully.

• Prices start to fall, offering better deals on accommodations and dining.

• September is great for travelers who want good weather with fewer tourists and lower costs.

This month offers a calm and enjoyable experience with mild weather and less congestion.

October

October brings cooler weather and more rain, signaling the start of the off-season. Crowds are low, and prices drop further. The town is quiet but still charming.

• Weather is cooler and wetter, which can limit outdoor activities but offers cozy indoor experiences.

• Crowds are minimal, providing a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.

• Travel and accommodation prices are low, making it a budget-friendly time to visit.

• October suits travelers who prefer solitude and don’t mind cooler, rainy weather.

Visiting in October is ideal for those seeking quiet and lower costs but less beach time.

November

November continues the cool, wet weather trend with few tourists around. Many businesses operate on limited hours. Prices remain low, and the town feels very peaceful.

• Weather is cold and rainy, with shorter daylight hours and fewer outdoor opportunities.

• Crowds are very low, perfect for travelers who want solitude and quiet.

• Prices are at their lowest, offering great deals on accommodations.

• November is best for travelers who value peace and budget over outdoor activities.

This month suits visitors who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a quiet coastal retreat.

December

December is cold and wet, with holiday events bringing some local cheer. Crowds are low except around holidays. Prices remain low except for holiday periods.

• Weather is cold and rainy, with occasional storms making outdoor plans challenging.

• Crowds are low except during Christmas and New Year holidays when visitors increase.

• Prices are generally low but rise around holiday dates.

• December suits travelers interested in holiday events or quiet winter visits with proper preparation.

Visiting in December offers a peaceful winter experience with festive touches but requires warm clothing.

Crowds and Travel Costs Throughout the Year

Cannon Beach experiences clear shifts in crowds and costs depending on the season. Peak season runs from June to August, with the highest visitor numbers and prices. Shoulder seasons in spring and fall offer moderate crowds and better deals. Off-season months see the fewest tourists and lowest costs.

Understanding these patterns helps you plan your trip to match your preferences for crowd size and budget. Crowds affect how easily you can access attractions and enjoy the town’s charm.

• Peak season (June-August) brings large crowds, lively events, and the highest prices for accommodations and dining.

• Shoulder seasons (April-May, September) have moderate crowds and more affordable prices, balancing comfort and cost.

• Off-season (October-March) offers the fewest tourists, quiet surroundings, and the lowest prices but cooler, wetter weather.

• Travel costs fluctuate significantly, with peak season rates up to double those in off-season months, especially for lodging.

Choosing when to visit depends on whether you prioritize budget savings, crowd avoidance, or ideal weather conditions.

Worst Time to Visit Cannon Beach

The worst time to visit Cannon Beach is during the winter months from November through February. These months bring cold, rainy weather and limited daylight. Many attractions and restaurants operate on reduced hours or close for the season.

Additionally, the weather can be harsh with strong coastal winds and storms. Crowds are minimal, but the overall experience may feel gloomy. Travel costs are low, but the weather and limited activities make this period less appealing for most visitors.

• Winter weather is often cold, wet, and windy, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe.

• Many local businesses reduce hours or close, limiting dining and entertainment options.

• Low visitor numbers mean a quiet town but also fewer services and events.

• Travelers seeking beach time or outdoor adventures should avoid this period due to poor weather conditions.

This time is best avoided unless you want a very quiet retreat and are prepared for cold, rainy weather.

Special Travel Tips for Visiting Cannon Beach

Packing for Cannon Beach depends on the season. Summer visitors should bring layers, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. Winter travelers need waterproof jackets, warm clothes, and sturdy footwear for wet conditions.

Booking accommodations early is important during peak months to secure good options. Also, check local event calendars to catch festivals or art shows. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating coastal weather changes or visiting without rain gear.

• Pack layers year-round, as coastal weather can change quickly from sun to wind or rain.

• Book accommodations well in advance for summer months to avoid limited availability and high prices.

• Check local event schedules to enjoy seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and art walks.

• Bring waterproof gear and sturdy shoes, especially if visiting in fall or winter to stay comfortable outdoors.

Planning ahead and preparing for weather changes will help you enjoy Cannon Beach no matter when you visit.

Conclusion

The best overall months to visit Cannon Beach are June through September, offering the most pleasant weather and a lively atmosphere. These months balance warm temperatures with manageable crowds and moderate prices.

Visiting outside this period means trade-offs between weather, crowd size, and cost. Spring and fall offer quieter experiences and better deals, while winter is cold and wet with fewer activities. Choose your travel time based on your priorities for weather comfort, budget, and crowd tolerance to make the most of your trip.

FAQs

What is the cheapest time to visit Cannon Beach?

The cheapest time to visit Cannon Beach is during the off-season months from November to March. During this period, accommodation and travel prices are at their lowest due to fewer tourists and colder, wetter weather.

Which month has the best weather in Cannon Beach?

July and August typically have the best weather in Cannon Beach, with warm temperatures and mostly sunny days. These months are ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

When is the peak tourist season in Cannon Beach?

The peak tourist season in Cannon Beach runs from June through August. This period sees the highest number of visitors, lively events, and the most crowded attractions.

Is Cannon Beach safe to visit during the off-season?

Yes, Cannon Beach is safe to visit during the off-season. However, some businesses may have limited hours, and weather conditions can be cold and rainy, so plan accordingly.

What is the best time for first-time visitors to Cannon Beach?

First-time visitors often find late spring (May) or early fall (September) the best time to visit. These months offer good weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices, providing a comfortable introduction to the area.