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Trip Planner:   USA  /  Oregon  /  Oregon Coast  /  Pacific City  /  Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, Pacific City

4.8
#1 of 10 in Things to do in Pacific City
Must see · Beach · Nature / Park
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Featuring a giant sand dune and some sandstone cliffs, Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, hang gliding, bird and whale watching. Hike to the top of the dune for encompassing views of the bay and Haystack Rock, a sea stack southwest of the cape. Take off your shoes to feel the soft sand on your feet as you wade through the cool surf. In low tide, look for sand dollars and explore tide pools with purple starfish, gentle anemones, and big red crabs. The beach gets quite busy in the summer and during holidays. Put Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area at the forefront of your travel plans using our Pacific City trip planner.
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Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
273 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • The sand dune looks tall, we walked to a lower point first, and didn’t think it was difficult. We walked along the fence, looked at the area, it was beautiful. We were there at high tide, so we... 
    The sand dune looks tall, we walked to a lower point first, and didn’t think it was difficult. We walked along the fence, looked at the area, it was beautiful. We were there at high tide, so we...  more »
  • A small, cute beach town. Lovely white sand beach backed with a few shops, cafes and restaurants for easy access. Interesting rock formations and best of all a big sand dune which you can huff and... 
    A small, cute beach town. Lovely white sand beach backed with a few shops, cafes and restaurants for easy access. Interesting rock formations and best of all a big sand dune which you can huff and...  more »
Google
  • Must see for anyone in the area. You can make the climb to the top of the sand dunes, or stop along the way for equally stunning views. The trails are clearly marked, so Don’t ruin it for everyone else by climbing the fences. There is a large parking lot nearby, with some small shops and a restaurant. Photos taken mid October.
  • Talk about a hike.. To see these vistas, you have to walk straight up a 200+ ft sand dune.. but it is WELL WORTH IT. Located just steps from the main drag of pacific city, this sandy, duney cliff offers some of the best view of (the better) Haystack Rock. You don't really want to do it barefoot because once you get up there, you will find lots of little spots to explore. There are great views not just of the beach and the rock, but also crashing waves, little ocean spots, and tons interesting rock formations like caves and trenches. If you can make the trip up the hill, it is a great place to spend a few hours taking in the natural views. It is also well gated and I felt completely safe the entire time I was up there. If you are visiting Pacific City, add this to your list!

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