Wide, flat, sandy Cannon Beach is a wonderful place to take a long, invigorating beach walk. Haystack Rock adds an undeniably dramatic focal point to the beach, and when the tide is out, you can explore the tide pools at its base. But please don’t disturb the sea urchins and starfish, and don’t climb up on the monolith—every year, careless climbers have to be plucked off the rock because the tide has come in and stranded them. Besides walking, kite flying and beachcombing are the most popular Cannon Beach pastimes, but you can also enjoy the beach in a variety of other ways. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, guided horseback rides to Cove Beach and Haystack Rock are offered by Sea Ranch Stables, 415 Fir St. (www.searanchrv.com; [tel] 503/436-2815), at the north entrance to Cannon Beach. Rides cost $80 to $140. These popular excursions are on a first-come, first-served basis, so sign up in person as early as you can.