Coastal birding habitat

Cannon Beach

Oregon · West

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

Cannon Beach is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 231 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and Mallard among many others. The diverse terrain supports both resident specialties and Pacific Flyway migrants throughout the year.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Lazuli Bunting

Passerina amoena

7/21/2026Home1 observed

Western Flycatcher (Pacific-slope)

Empidonax difficilis

7/19/202640251 Foss Road, Nehalem, Oregon, US (45.75, -123.652)2 observed

Red Crossbill (Douglas-fir or type 4)

Loxia curvirostra

7/14/2026Cannon Beach Settling Ponds1 observed

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligula

7/13/2026Nehalem Sewage Ponds1 observed

Black Scoter

Melanitta americana

7/13/2026Seaside Cove1 observed

Horned Puffin

Fratercula corniculata

7/10/2026Hug Point State Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Common Murre

1007/21/2026

Western Gull

17/21/2026

California Gull

27/21/2026

Glaucous-winged Gull

507/21/2026

Pelagic Cormorant

507/21/2026

Brown Pelican

187/21/2026

American Crow

37/21/2026

Harlequin Duck

17/21/2026

Black Oystercatcher

27/21/2026

Tufted Puffin

17/21/2026

Pigeon Guillemot

507/21/2026

California Scrub-Jay

17/21/2026

Barn Swallow

47/21/2026

House Sparrow

37/21/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/21/2026

Western Flycatcher

17/21/2026

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

27/21/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

17/21/2026

Brown Creeper

17/21/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

17/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Early mornings provide the best light and bird activity along the coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cannon Beach for birding?
The best months to visit Cannon Beach for birding are March-May, September-November. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cannon Beach?
Notable species at Cannon Beach include Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, Lesser Scaup, Surf Scoter. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cannon Beach?
Birding at Cannon Beach is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cannon Beach?
Cannon Beach offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.