Cannon beach coastal homes at dusk.

The small towns up and down the beautiful Oregon Coast offer many incredible sights, attractions, and events. One of the most unique and interesting experiences is the Cannon Beach Cottage and Garden Tour. Due to its charming seaside character, Cannon Beach is often likened to Carmel, California or Nantucket, Massachusetts. As you stroll through the neighborhoods of Cannon Beach, you will notice quaint beach cottages, some built over a century ago and nothing like the mammoth beach homes being built today. Many of these picturesque cottages, surrounded by lush gardens, retain the flavor of bygone days when families often spent extended summer holidays by the ocean, their days filled with outdoor adventures. Each year several homes are selected to participate in the Cottage and Garden Tour which is a benefit fundraiser for the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum. This annual showing of historic homes showcases the local heritage and cottage architecture in a three-day celebration of this beautiful coastal destination.

What to Expect at the Cannon Beach Cottage and Garden Tour

The annual Cannon Beach Cottage and Garden Tour takes place on the weekend of September 13th through the 15th. You can purchase tickets in advance on the History Center’s website! 

1. Immerse Yourself in Oregon Coast History

The Cannon Beach Cottage and Garden Tour is an annual event that celebrates the architectural wonders in the heart of town. This three-day event kicks off on Friday night with live music at the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum. While the entertainment and food offer plenty of fun, the highlight of the weekend is the cottage tour. This year all the homes featured are in the Presidential Streets neighborhood where the streets are named after US Presidents. While walking through the neighborhood, take in the picturesque fairytale designs and gardens of these carefully preserved homes as your guide provides historical background about Cannon Beach’s cottage culture and points out special details of interest. You’ll be treated to wine tasting, live music, and tea along the way!

Besides the tour, you can opt to attend a luncheon and a talk with the Oregonian’s home design reporter, Janet Eastman. Following the showcase event, you can enjoy an exciting evening full of wine, beer, food, and a small concert!

2. Enjoy an English Tea Event 

The English garden tea is the other special event that takes place during the Cannon Beach Cottage and Garden Tour. This interactive experience takes place on Sunday at Tolovana Hall. Those attending can indulge in scones, teas, cucumber sandwiches, and more while listening to a professional gardener presentation.

3. Revel in the Town of Cannon Beach 

You can explore the local art scene in between the special events of the Cannon Beach Cottage and Garden Tour. There are a dozen galleries around town that are perfect for popping in and out of throughout the day. You can’t visit Cannon Beach without taking a walk along the vast stretches of sand spanning the coast near scenic Haystack Rock. There is also a fantastic collection of restaurants and shops that you can peruse in the area.

Plan Your Oregon Coast Getaway

Start planning your fall trip to Cannon Beach by browsing our incredible collection of premium vacation homes. If staying in the charming Presidential Streets neighborhood is your style, you’ll love the newly renovated Beach Blessing and nearby Red Door Cottage. Or if you’d like to book your stay in a historical cottage, check out The Sea Star which is just a half block to the ocean in the Tolovana neighborhood. We feature a list of properties located in Rockaway Beach, Arch Cape, Cannon Beach, and Manzanita. Each town has its own charm and charisma, and they are all within a 20 to 30-minute driving distance from one another. Most of our rentals boast fabulous ocean views. We are also happy to offer guest services that are second-to-none in our area. Through our incredible service, you and your family can add anything from a personal chef to an on-site massage service during your stay.
Treat yourself to a fun getaway for the entire family this fall by booking a stay at one of our Starfish Vacation Rental properties. We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful coast!