Surfsand Resort: A Family-Friendly Coastal Retreat

An aging classic, Surfsand Resort gets a wave of renovation.
An aging classic, Surfsand Resort gets a wave of renovation.
written by Kerry Newberry
photography by Surfsand Resort

A classic coastal retreat, this family- and pet-friendly stay in Cannon Beach combines everything we love about summer at the beach. Cute cabanas and nightly bonfires with s’mores? Just a few of the many seasonal traditions you’ll find at this resort during the dog days of summer. You can also join craft beer (and root beer) tastings on Fridays, ice cream socials on Saturdays and hot dog roasts on Sundays. Other perks include a kite concierge who glides novelty kites (like a groovy giant octopus) and teaches kids how to soar on their own.

The resort offers on-beach fun such as s’more packages and bonfires, as well as a kite concierge.
The resort offers on-beach fun such as s’more packages and bonfires, as well as a kite concierge.

Even better, the oceanfront getaway just unveiled a significant renovation, refreshing all the rooms and revamping gathering spaces. In the modernized reception area, you’ll find a stunning mosaic wall in lava stone tiles, elegant oak chandeliers and an ethereal glass installation by Thompson Studio Glass that’s a tribute to the iconic Haystack Rock. A creative history wall details the resort’s storied place in Cannon Beach, and an antique arcade machine (circa 1933) now dispenses taffy from the town’s beloved Bruce’s Candy Kitchen.

ROOMS

All of the ninety-six rooms at this historic resort were just refreshed with contemporary decor and design. Most rooms have unrivaled views of the ocean and Haystack Rock. Opt for a second-floor room and take advantage of the balcony, the perfect perch to catch sunrise and sunset as seabirds swoop by. Other in-rooms perks include a gas fireplace, sleek glass-enclosed step-in showers and large soaking tubs with a shoji screen.

AMENITIES

It’s easy to unwind with simple pleasures like complimentary beach cruiser bikes, an indoor heated swimming pool with sauna and freshly baked chocolate chip cookies every afternoon. Since a trip to the beach isn’t the same without your BFF, the resort offers a VIP (Very Important Pet) experience that includes an outdoor pet-washing station, the new Bone Appetit Bistro in the lobby (pet treats along with toys for purchase) and a welcome card for Fido.

BEACHFRONT CONCIERGE + BONFIRE BUTLER

Connection and community are the magic ingredients at this resort, and you’ll find that at the nightly group bonfires (held June though Labor Day, weather permitting). You can also schedule a personal bonfire in advance. The Beachfront Concierge team is on-hand for organizing tours with the Haystack Rock Awareness Program and other seasonal activities that cater to families.

DINING

For over four decades, Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge has captivated guests with stunning views of Haystack Rock. That’s still the focus along with a menu of coastal dishes that star the freshest local ingredients. Standouts from the scratch kitchen include a Dungeness crab omelet (generous with the crab) and their signature clam bake (seasoned Dungeness crab legs, local Manila clams, andouille sausage, wild prawns and potatoes). A favorite with both locals and visitors, this landmark spot is open 365 days of the year for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Its Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge offers fresh seafood to complement the resort’s new look.
Its Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge offers fresh seafood to complement the resort’s new look.

148 W. GOWER AVE.
CANNON BEACH
www.surfsand.com

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