Things To Do
Pelican Brewing – Pacific City
Looking for a great, local beer? Looking for Dave? Chances are you will find both here! Visit the only beachfront brewpub in the PNW and the birthplace of Pelican Brewing. Surround yourself in the coastal action of Pacific City and kick back with a cold beer, views of surfers, doryboats and beachgoers. Cheers!
Twist Wine Company or PC Pour
Kristen loves her wine and is always game to try new ones - she will either be here, PC Pour or sitting on the beach - the common thread? There will most likely be wine in her hand!
Hike to the top of the Dune
One of the major features of the Cape Kiwanda Natural Scenic Area is the large dune, accessible from the north side of the public beach. This 240-foot sand dune looks like an easy walk up to the top, but it’s a fickle friend! It’s pretty steep but completely worth the tough climb. Once at the top, you have views in nearly all directions, from southern views of Bob Straub State Park to the northern view of McPhillips Beach. This is one of the easiest Oregon coast hikes to access (despite the steepness) because the parking lot is just down the hill! From here, you can do some exploring around the sand dunes, but keep your eye out for posted warning signs. These signs are to be followed at all times, preventing you from straying too close to the fragile edges of these cliffs. People have died here from venturing too close to the edge, so pay attention to these warnings seriously!
Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area
Probably one of the most iconic Oregon photography spots in the entire state is here in Cape Kiwanda, only accessible by low tide. This unnamed arch is located on the north side of the cliffs, with access either from a long walk down via McPhillips Beach or a strenuous hike up and over the Cape Kiwanda sand dune. You can find it tucked in between tall sandstone cliffs on the ocean’s edge, where you’ll need to climb over some large boulders to get a good view of the arched rock. It’s a pretty spectacular view, and one of our favorite spots on the Oregon Coast.
Drive The Three Capes Scenic Loop - Tillamook Coast
Cape Kiwanda is one of the three capes on Oregon’s Three Capes Scenic Route. The others include Cape Meares and Cape Lookout, however, Cape Kiwanda is by the far the most popular and easily accessible beach for some Oregon coast pictures. Spend the morning of afternoon seeing all of these iconic stops!
Cape Meares Lighthouse
Seated 200 feet above the ocean, Cape Meares provides a delightful view of the largest colony of nesting common murres—a penguin-like bird native to the Oregon Coast. Cape Meares is an excellent spot for whale-watching, it is also common to see seals and sea lions. While you are there take a tour of the Lighthouse, and don’t forget to stop by the Octopus tree.