EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SURFING IN CANNON BEACH
Disclaimer: I am a local blogger, not a surfer. I do the research, so you don't have to!
WHO WILL ENJOY SURFING IN CANNON BEACH?
Cannon Beach is for outdoor enthusiasts and beginner surfers. The surf is entirely beachbreak, with the craziest waves being crumbling a-frames. This makes Cannon a good spot for the groms or anyone looking for a laid-back session with a view.
WHAT MAKES CANNON BEACH GOOD FOR SURFING?
Cannon Beach proper and the outlying beaches are popular surf spots for several reasons. The beaches are fun, accommodating, accessible, and all beachbreak. All ability levels are welcome, but Cannon's real renown comes from its idyllic landscapes. The surf boasts an exquisite shoreline bordered by dripping cliffs and tree-clad mountains. The impeccable scenery will be, by far, the most memorable part of your trip.
WHERE IS THE BEST SPOT TO SURF IN CANNON BEACH?
Short Sands is the beach with the best sets. Also known as Shorties or Oswald State Park, this horse-shoe-shaped cove is all beachbreak with wind and swell protection. An ideal surf occurs in the summer when the levels are low, and the tide is high. The park includes amenities: extensive parking, picnic areas and benches, water fountains, faucets, and public restrooms are all provided.
ARE THERE OTHER GOOD SURF SPOTS IN CANNON?
Ecola State Park is another frequented surf scene. Ecola is also known as Indian beach. Like Shorties, Ecola is all beachbreak, with its ideal surf occurring in the summer season. Unlike Shorties, Ecola is not as protected from swells and wind. Surfers should also be aware of the riptide found on the north end.
Cannon Beach proper hosts a number of surfers, though the sets are mediocre. Ecola Creek might have a good bar on occasion, but nothing reliable. Exploring is encouraged, though there generally isn't much beyond the initial line-up.
If you decide to do some exploring, the Cannon Beach surf stretches between Ecola Creek and Falcon Cove for about 9 miles.
WHAT SAFETY HAZARDS SHOULD I BE AWARE OF?
Cannon Beach has one of the safest surf scenes. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, lifeguards are posted near the line-ups. The most significant safety hazards in the Oregon Ocean include riptides, unpredictable weather, and cold water temperatures.
RIPTIDES
Offensive measures against riptides include researching the tides beforehand and knowing the potential danger areas.
UNPREDICTABLE WEATHER
The weather is prone to change quickly on the Oregon Coast. Check the forecast before your session and take precautions accordingly.
COLD WATER TEMPERATURES
The non-negotiable of surfing the Oregon Coast is wearing a wetsuit. Temperatures in the Pacific are below 55 F, and surfers who do not wear wetsuits will get hypothermia.
OTHER SAFETY INFORMATION
If you have an existential fear of shark attacks, understand that a shark attack is as frequent as a meteor strike. There are only two attacks on record for Cannon Beach, one in 1979 and the other in 1988. Both victims survived with minimal scarring. In the rare case you encounter a shark, it is necessary to stay calm, maintain eye contact, and swim slowly away with minimal splashing.
Finally, there is safety in numbers. Do not surf alone, especially if you are surfing at dawn, dusk, or night.
TO THE PNW SURFERS...
The Cannon Beach surf experience will never equate to the California surf scene, but it is entirely unique. The waters are crowded with surfers, body-boarders, kayakers, and other adventures in and out of season. Even though the sets may not be particularly memorable, the PNW experience is not quickly forgotten.
