Coastal Harmony: A Memorable Escape to Cannon Beach
The crisp air of anticipation filled the car as we embarked on a weekend adventure from Seattle to the charming coastal town of Cannon Beach, Oregon. Little did we know that this journey would unfold into a delightful blend of nostalgia, scenic wonders, and unexpected discoveries.
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Leaving the Emerald City behind, we hit the open road, winding our way through the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest. The journey was as much a part of the adventure as the destination, and the scenic drive south was nothing short of breathtaking.
As we traversed the picturesque landscapes, towering evergreen trees lined the highway, creating a natural canopy above us. The occasional ray of sunlight pierced through, casting a warm glow on the road ahead. It was a perfect start to what promised to be an unforgettable weekend.
A Surprising Stop in Astoria
About 3 hours into our drive, we found ourselves in Astoria, OR a charming town with a rich maritime history. Little did we know that this stop would add an unexpected layer to our adventure. Our main attraction? The iconic Goonies House.
Walking down the quaint streets of Astoria, we felt a nostalgic excitement. The Goonies House, made famous by the beloved 80s movie, stood as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure. We couldn't resist snapping a few photos for the archives.
With the Goonies magic still lingering, we decided to explore
Astoria's
culinary scene. Our lunch spot was Astoria Brewing Company. With great views overlooking the Columbia River, it was the perfect place to relax for a bit.
We loved the unexpected joys of our journey. The combination of local flavors and the Goonies nostalgia made for a truly unique and memorable experience.
The County Jail from Goonies
Discovering Cannon Beach
When we began planning our adventure, our Google search for “things to do” in Cannon Beach revealed a surprising connection to the Goonies. Excitement bubbled as we realized we were heading towards a place that held not only natural beauty but also a touch of cinematic history.
The anticipation grew as we neared Cannon Beach, and when we finally arrived at the Ocean Lodge, our oceanfront room exceeded all expectations. The view of the Pacific Ocean stretched out before us, inviting us to unwind and immerse ourselves in the coastal serenity.
For an idyllic coastal retreat, we highly recommend Ocean Lodge in Cannon Beach. The oceanfront rooms offer unparalleled views of the Pacific, creating a serene backdrop for a casual getaway.
The exceptional staff, especially Patrick, went above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. Patrick's warm hospitality extended to personally guiding us through the lodge and sharing captivating personal stories. His enthusiasm even led to impromptu photo sessions, including a memorable moment with a classic Chevrolet Bel Air. Ocean Lodge embodies coastal charm and personalized service for an unforgettable stay.
A Beach Stroll and Haystack Rock
The rhythmic sound of crashing waves beckoned us to explore Cannon Beach. Stepping onto the sandy shores, the sight of Haystack Rock, an iconic monolith rising majestically from the ocean, stole our breath away.
Hand in hand, we strolled along the shoreline, the cool breeze and the rhythmic sound of the waves creating a symphony of tranquility. The beauty of Cannon Beach, framed by the towering rock formations, painted a serene picture that etched itself into our memories.
After working up an appetite with our beach exploration, we headed to the renowned Driftwood restaurant for a coastal dining experience. The menu, a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, offered a culinary journey that mirrored our coastal adventure.
As the sun began its descent over the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, casting a warm, golden hue across Cannon Beach, we decided to take a leisurely evening walk along the shore. The silhouette of Haystack Rock stood proudly against the fading light, its towering presence a constant companion as we ambled along the water's edge.
Our footprints marked the passage of time on the sandy canvas, capturing the essence of a moment that felt suspended in the gentle ebb and flow of the tide.
Journey to Ecola State Park
Fueled by our Goonies-inspired curiosity, we embarked on a scenic drive to Ecola State Park. The winding road offered panoramic views of the coastline, with glimpses of the vast Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly before us.
Arriving at Ecola State Park, we marveled at the rugged cliffs and dense forests that framed the landscape. As we explored the park, we stumbled upon the Fratelli's Family Hangout, a location immortalized in the Goonies movie. The blend of cinematic history and natural beauty created a magical atmosphere that transported us back in time.
Fratelli Family Hideout location
What A Trip!
As we reluctantly packed our bags to leave Cannon Beach, we couldn't help but reflect on the unexpected twists and turns of our weekend adventure. From the Goonies House in Astoria to the breathtaking beauty of Cannon Beach, our journey had been a delightful mix of nostalgia, discovery, and coastal charm. The towering trees, the expansive coastline, and the sense of adventure lingered in our hearts, creating a tapestry of experiences that made this weekend getaway truly extraordinary.