mpkp, We have stayed at both Fireside and Overleaf. You're right, they are side by side and both have the same ocean view. I'd go with the Fireside.

Also, anyone who is considering the B&B certificates, you can buy them online at Costco for 20% off.

You may want to consider staying in Astoria, about 30 minutes from Cannon Beach, it is a historic little town on the Columbia River with a lot of charm. They have many nice B&B to choose from: Britta's Inn, Clementine's, Rose River Inn, Grandview and Benjamin Young Inn are a few nice ones. ***kim***

Why would the OP want to go to Astoria?
It is not even on the ocean and he already mentioned Cannon Beach..

<Why would the OP want to go to Astoria?> Because it's there?

I recently came back from a trip out west, looking at colleges with my daughters. We spent one night (unfortunately it was only one night) in Portland at Hotel Modera. I can not say enough for this hotel, great ambiance, especially the outside gas fire pits...beautiful decor, friendly staff and reasonable rates..including continental breakfast.
Check it out.
rbhm

Thanks -- looked at the Modera and it looks very nice but it is a little expensive for us.

We are thinking of staying at the Portland White House as we can use the bed and breakfast gift certificates there and we already have some. I am a little concerned about parking as it appears it is all street parking. Does any one know if that will be a problem finding space over there?

Can anyone tell us if the Portland Saturday Market is a not to be missed place? We like hand made items but not trinkets so I was wondering if this is something we should try to do? Originally we were planning to come to Portland on Friday Aug 14 and leave Sun Aug 16 with the Saturday spent going to St. Helens. But I really love to see hand done items and wonder if we can do both or if I should try to find a way to come on Thursday?

The Portland Saturday Mkt is a great event if you are in Portland, anyway, but I would not change your plans for it.
If you are looking for a 2-3 hour something around Portland, check Sauvie's Island, just north of the city at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers - it's a penninsula dedicated to small farms, pick-your-own places, a wildlife refuge - one of the most peaceful places I have ever been.

If you can work it in, rather than just going to the top of Mt. Hood and coming back down, look into taking the loop around Mt. Hood from Portland, through the Hood River Valley, and then back to Portland along the Columbia Gorge. You will never forget that Valley or the Gorge. The entire loop will take you most of the day.

A wonderful breakfast spot is the lodge at Multanoma Falls, along the Gorge.

You will love the Prospect- the motel rooms are pretty basic motel room type- but clean.
The historic part is much nicer - but then, how much time will you spend in your room?
Sitting on the front porch in the evening is great and there is a short hike down to some waterfalls close by.
and the food at the Prospect is great - they will even pack you a lunch for the day if you request in advance

In Portland take a look at the Inn at Northrup Station- great location and parking is included -