Cape Kiwanda Oregon (also called Cape Kiwanda Natural Area) is an impressive feature of the Oregon coastline, right next to Pacific City, that is highlighted by a massive sand dune, visible from miles around.
The main draw of Cape Kiwanda Oregon is the Cape Kiwanda sand dune, which is incredibly fun to hike up (albeit challenging) and enjoy the expansive views from the top.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Cape Kiwanda Oregon, including tips for hiking the sand dune, other parts of the cape to see, more information about Pacific City, and where to stay nearby.
So pack your sense of adventure and lets explore Cape Kiwanda Oregon!
Cape Kiwanda Oregon Overview
While often referred to as Cape Kiwanda State Park Oregon or Cape Kiwanda State Scenic Area, this coastal feature’s proper name is Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.
You may also hear it called Kiwanda Beach Oregon or Cape Kiwanda Pacific City Oregon, because it is right next to Pacific City.
Whatever you call it, Cape Kiwanda is a mix of a huge sand dune, rugged rocky outcroppings, and huge caves filled with ocean water. In fact, the unique rock and sand formations are what make this area so fun to explore.
Of course, the incredible 360 degree views from the top can hardly be beat on a clear day. You can see north to Cape Lookout and Oceanside as well as south to Lincoln City.
The sand dune itself is 240 feet tall, but the grade is steep and the soft sand makes the progress difficult. However, the determined and able bodied among us will be victorious and earn the views as a reward.
Cape Kiwanda Oregon Map
Hike the Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune
First, park at the public parking lot by the Pelican Pub. Then, turn right when you get onto the beach. Of course, you won’t miss the giant sand dune looming in the distance.
It is a short walk from the parking lot to the base of the sand dune. You can leave your things at the bottom if you want, and start the climb!
Take it slow and steady and eventually you will reach the top. You can choose to turn around and enjoy the views during rest breaks, or leave the grand reveal for the very top!
When you’ve soaked in the views to your content, it is super fun to run down on the way back.
Other Things to do In Pacific City
Pacific City Oregon is a small but inviting town, with several excellent restaurants, including the beachside Pelican Pub and the highly rated Nestucca River House.
It is fun to stroll the Cape Kiwanda Beach Oregon and watch surfers and dory fishing boats take turns riding the waves. In addition, the impressive Haystack Rock looms offshore (a different Haystack Rock than the one at Cannon Beach.
If you are into fishing, consider hiring a dory boat captain to take you out for the day. This is a great way to catch some fresh fish and crab and create a memorable experience.
Perhaps a more affordable way to get into the water is surfing at Pacific City. Pacific City is popular for surfing in Oregon (one of our favorite spots) and you can rent gear or take lessons at Moment Surf Company.
Learn more about things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Pacific City in our full visitors guide to Pacific City Oregon.
Cape Kiwanda Oregon Hotels and Places to Stay in Pacific City Oregon
In between all those fun activities, you’ll need a place to rest your head. There are a variety of lodging Pacific City Oregon options.
You can choose between hotels, resorts, RV parks, and home rentals when choosing from Pacific City Oregon places to stay. This list includes hotels near Cape Kiwanda Oregon and other options for Cape Kiwanda Oregon lodging.
Inn at Cape Kiwanda Pacific City Oregon
Located within a short walk from the beach and right next to restaurants and a cafe, the Inn at Cape Kiwanda is centralized in an ideal location for exploring Pacific City.
Settle into rooms with ocean views within walking distance of the Pelican Pub, Stimulus Coffee + Bakery, and other places to eat. With a 4.5 star rating on Google, Inn at Cape Kiwanda is a favorite of many visitors.
Surf and Sand Inn Pacific City Oregon
Surf and Sand Pacific City Oregon (also referred to as Sand and Surf Pacific City) is a highly rated, reasonably priced, and longstanding (since 1940s) option for lodging in Pacific City.
The rooms are cozy and clean. In addition there are a few cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby, as well as a 5 minute walk to the beach. As a result, Surf and Sand Inn is one of the best places to stay in Pacific City.
Headlands Lodge Pacific City Oregon
If a more upscale option is calling your name, look no further than Headlands Lodge (often shortened to Headlands Pacific City).
Complete with beachside rooms, an ideal location, a restaurant, fitness center, spa, yoga studio, outdoor hot tub, and dog-friendly accommodations, Pacific City Headlands Lodge has everything you could ask for and more.
Keep in mind: you might also hear Headlands Lodge referred to as “the Cottages at Cape Kiwanda Pacific City Oregon” or “Pacific City Cape Kiwanda Cottages”.
Hudson House Bed and Breakfast Pacific City Oregon
A short 6 minute drive in the countryside outside of Pacific City, Hudson House Bed and Breakfast feels more like staying at your grandma’s house than a hotel in that it is a quaint old house run by an amazing woman named Irma.
This memorable and unique bed and breakfast near Pacific City Oregon is homey, relaxing, and worthy of its highly rated reputation. Consider staying at the Hudson House, to get off the beaten path of places to stay in Pacific City Oregon.
Anchorage Motel Pacific City Oregon
Anchorage Motel is an affordable and highly rated motel Pacific City is lucky to have. There are restaurants and the beach is a short 5 minute walk away.
This family owned motel has clean rooms stocked with basics and is a great option for families. They even have pet friendly rooms.
Cape Kiwanda RV Park Pacific City Oregon
The Pacific City Cape Kiwanda RV Park is an all-in-one accommodation option, offering RV sites, van and tent sites, cottages, cabins, and amenities such as a swimming pool, hot tub, putting course, and bike rentals.
Cape Kiwanda RV Park is also centrally located near the beach, restaurants, and a cafe. This is a great option for those with RVs wanting to stay in a great location with lots of amenities.
Pacific City Oregon Thousand Trails
The popular Pacific City 1000 Trails is a one-stop-shop for RVers visiting Pacific City. In fact, visitors enjoy amenities like a pool, billiards game room, pickleball, mini golf, and more.
In addition to RV sites, they also have cabins, yurts, and cottages, some of which are pet friendly. Keep in mind it is a 6 minute drive to Pacific City proper, but the beach is within walking distance.
Other Tips Planning Your Visit to Pacific City
If you have heard anything about the Oregon coast, it’s that it can be beautiful; that is, when it is not raining or windy.
Summer on the Oregon Coast is typically the best time to visit, as the weather is actually pretty sunny, although you should still expect wind, and rain is still possible. That said, there are often nice days during spring and fall, though they become fewer and farther between during winter.
Cape Kiwanda FAQ
What is Cape Kiwanda known for?
Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City is known primarily for its massive sand dune, which offers a challenging yet rewarding climb with excellent views from the top. This unique coastal feature is so fun to explore, especially for kids (it must feel extra big for them).
How tall is the sand dune in Cape Kiwanda?
The sand dune in Cape Kiwanda is 240 feet tall.
What is the name of the rock off Cape Kiwanda?
The name of the rock off Cape Kiwanda is Haystack Rock. Do not get this impressive offshore rock confused with Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach. They are different, but named the same!
How long is the Cape Kiwanda hike?
The Cape Kiwanda Hike is relatively short, depending on how much wandering you do. The real kicker is the elevation you gain and the soft sand shifting under your feet, which makes progress difficult.
How many people died at Cape Kiwanda?
8 people have died at Cape Kiwanda since 2009, making this the deadliest spot on the Oregon Coast. The reason is that shifting sand obscures cliff edges where people slide off. There is lots of fencing and signage to protect people when they explore this area. You will be safe as long as you respect these boundaries and use common sense when exploring.
Are there 2 haystack rocks in Oregon?
Yes! There is one at Pacific City and one at Cannon Beach. They have a similar shape, but the one at Pacific City is further offshore and the one at Cannon Beach is closer to land.
Conclusion
Cape Kiwanda Oregon is an impressive feature worth exploring. Whether you choose to make the hike to the top or just observe from sea level, this incredible outcropping of rock and sand is a memorable and unique sight to see.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area. We love Cape Kiwanda and hope you will too.
You may be interested in learning more in our other articles about the Oregon Coast, including things to do in Pacific City and other beaches near Portland.
