The Ecola Inn — also known as the Ecola Hotel and the Ecola Inn Hotel — was built in 1913 and utilized about half of the site of the present day Surfsand Resort.

It was built by August Becker and his son, Roy, who were both major landholders in Cannon Beach (they also built the property where the Cannon Beach Hotel now sits, originally known as the Becker Building), with some help from Frank Madden, Paul Bartels, John Brallier and others.

Bartels, who was famously known for creating massive fireplaces throughout Cannon Beach, was paid $2.00 a day and the carpenters were paid $4.00 a day for their work. Sometime after it was built, August Becker sold the hotel to his son-in-law and daughter and their associates. It was then, in 1931, that the property was sold to E.A. Hollinshead and his son, John Hollinshead. The hotel went through many owners over the years, but due to spotty records, it is unclear who all of the other owners were and when they took over.

The inn was open all year round and the rooms featured twin beds with a bath or shower and connecting rooms. There were also apartments with maid services. The price to stay at the inn was between $2.50 to $3.50 per night and it was $15.00 per week to rent a two-room apartment.

The front of the lobby was adorned with a large fireplace, which was perhaps constructed by Paul Bartels. The east lobby was done in Firtex from St. Helens, with an inlaid surf girl designed desk front, from pieces of linoleum, and easy chairs with chrome-springed arms.

The inn became a social gathering spot and was known for its ping-pong tournaments in the lobby. The lobby also became a place for guests to gather around the piano and harmonize together.

According to records, the inn was sold to an Emma Fowler in 1948, who operated it for seven years. Her pet parrot, Loleta, was brought from South America and became almost as famous as the hotel itself. Loleta spoke many words, was delighted in calling the pet dog, and became upset when it saw men wearing gloves and a hat. After Fowler sold the hotel in 1955, Loleta left as well.

Elaine Trucke is the executive director of the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum.