Arch Cape takes its name from a natural rock arch. Travel interests range from trails with views of the Pacific and beaches with different visiting conditions to maritime history. When choosing a destination, you can consider whether outdoor activity, coastal scenery or local history should be the focus of your stay.
Trails and Pacific Views
A 13-mile section of the Oregon Coast Trail begins in Arch Cape and runs south toward Manzanita. Oswald West State Park has many trails with views of the Pacific Ocean. These details answer different questions: the trail’s length and direction are specified, while the park trails are noted for their variety and ocean views. If you include a hike in your trip, you can choose between a route described in specific terms and trails whose shared appeal is their ocean views. Check current trail conditions before setting out.
Beaches with Distinct Conditions
Short Sand Beach lies in a sheltered cove bordered by volcanic basalt and sandstone cliffs. The beach is popular and lively on weekends and summer days. If you visit at those times, expect crowds. Hug Point State Recreation Site offers easy access to the beach; conditions there depend on the tides. Keep them in mind when planning your visit. These are two different practical considerations: how busy Short Sand Beach is at certain times and the effect of the tides at Hug Point.
Wildlife Watching at Cape Falcon
At Cape Falcon, visitors can watch storms and migrating whales. Whale sightings are seasonal and variable. So consider seeing a whale a possibility, not a guaranteed part of your itinerary. The chance to watch storms or migrating whales gives Cape Falcon a different focus from trails with Pacific views.
Maritime History
The town’s history also has several specific points of connection. A large part of the wreck of the Shark washed ashore south of Cannon Beach, in the area of present-day Arch Cape. In December 1863, a cannon was sighted and reported at what is now Arch Cape Creek. A salvaged cannon later stood for several years in front of the Austin House Post Office in Arch Cape. These are distinct historical traces: wreckage washed ashore, a reported cannon sighting and a salvaged gun displayed for several years in front of the post office. The natural rock arch after which Arch Cape was named adds a geographical origin to its maritime history.
Arch Cape is on Highway 101 between Cannon Beach and Manzanita. This location helps you pinpoint the town when choosing a destination, before weighing activities and historical topics according to your interests.
Discover more destinations: Gearhart, Warrenton, Cannon Beach, Seaside, Astoria
Return to the main travel overview: Clatsop.
