I'll never forget this trip and look forward to dipping my toes in the sand in warmer temperatures. It's not too crowded and you'll want to kick your shoes off as soon as you see the soft white sand. We couldn't resist climbing the top of the giant steep sand dune, and I'm glad we made it! Stunning views of the ocean from the top, and it's fun to people watch too. Our dog made it too. Some ran back down, others skipped, some used sleds. It's fun either way! You'll be able to rinse your gear as you head to the parking lot. There's clean bathrooms and plenty of parking. Hungry? There's restaurants near too. read more

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What a great little getaway! Did I think it was secluded? No. Did I expect it to be busy? No, but it was. We first checked out this place on a lovely Juneteenth Friday afternoon. The temperature was in the low 80s, but the cool ocean breeze made everything just right. It had been raining all week prior, so we thought we'd explore and give our little mutt, Tha 'il Nana, some much needed sun. So, here's a few things about Cape Kiwanda: First off, there's a public parking lot at the beach where Pelican Brewing is located that requires a Daily Fee of $10. Just remember to place the parking pass on your dashboard. The lot probably holds about 125-150 spaces, so we had no issue finding a spot. People coming and going as well. Second, expect high winds and sand blowing down the dune and along the beach. And expect those high windy days to kick up the sand along the beach. It's also pretty scenic so bring a camera or make sure your phone is fully charged. Speaking of dune, there were plenty of folks challenging themselves running up it. And usually folks would end up heading towards the tidepools. There's definitely a lot of interesting things to see from crabs, to green anemones, to fancy sandstone rocks, and starfish. Oh yeah, and speaking of high winds, there were plenty of folks flying kites too. Third, the beach is a long and wide straightaway stretch, so everyone has plenty of room to run and play in the cold water. Great for dogs to play fetch and intermingle with other dogs. Our mutt was all over the place and I could tell she was having fun. She simply loved it! As far as the sand in general, it looks fine and bright. Not as white as the beaches in Cancun, but definitely cleaner than the ones in Cali. Bring a towel or two and enjoy the sun. Hell, some folks even had a whole tent set up. Fourth, some fellow yelpers mentioned there are no public restrooms, but there actually is one public restroom way up in the corner of the parking lot. Maybe because of covid they were closed, I don't know. But from relaxing on the beach, I can see how long of a walk it would be just to wanna relieve yourself. In closing, we accomplished our goal of making our old dog happy, and getting away from the inland heat. I truly enjoyed it here and plan to return someday. One final note; I was told from a local, "pretty much from here to Astoria (north) the beaches will be packed, but south of here will be a bit more secluded". Gotta love the Oregon coast! Enjoy! read more

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Worth the drive to get there. My fam, my cousin's fam, and my uncle's fam convoyed to this beach from Hillsboro, and the cool and breezy climate at Cape Kiwanda was a nice change from the blazing hot conditions we experienced earlier in the day. There were lots of people out enjoying the day by picnicing, swimming, boating, and hiking up the sand dunes. Such a vibe! The coastal views here are different than other places on the coast- definitely worth a visit (and more)! read more

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Jaw dropping scenery... just beautiful. We caught the super waves in November this last time when we stayed on the coast for Thanksgiving. I cannot recommend the Oregon Coast in winter enough. It was sunny, and all about were artists, dogs, surfers, bums like us, and beer. read more

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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! read more

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My daughter and I could not visit Oregon and not stop by Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area. It is part of the three Capes scenic route. The three capes are Cape Kiwanda, Cape Lookout and Cape Meares. Cape Kiwanda is the smallest but it is known for having outstanding wave action. It was clear and beautiful on the day that we visited. We were able to hike around the park and enjoy the lovely views from multiple locations. It is definitely worth a visit. For safety reasons they fenced off areas and put up caution signs. Some people decided to risk it to take daring selfies but we decided against it. read more

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This was the first time here. Highly recommend you park in the visitor lot by Pelican Bay Brewery, go down to the beach and hang a right. Hike up the large hill that's in front of you and follow the trails to the upper park area. The views are amazing. read more

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As Stefon would say, "this place has everything". An expansive stretch of beach, glorious geology (offshore and on), a huge dune for those of all ages whose knees are up for the challenge, tidepools, tidepools, and tidepools. Even when the parking lot is tending towards full, there is enough space to wander that social distancing is pretty much a natural occurrence. I've probably eaten at the brewpub that shares the parking lot about half the times I've visited here, so I hadn't noticed the lack of restrooms that other Yelpers have commented on, but do be aware of that. Regardless of the weather, be sure to bring your good camera with you - this place invites picture taking at all times of the year. An FYI for getting here from the north: there's a small coast road alternative to highway 101 that runs from Netarts (west of Tillamook) and takes you right to the parking lot. If you're not in a hurry, it's a lovely part of the coast to see. read more

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This place is awesome!!!! Dogs love it. Kids love it. The big truck loves it. It's the perfect getaway. And there is lots to do. You can walk along the beach. Play in the tide pools. And of course there is the huge sand dune. So cool! You have to run and jump and play in the sand at least once here. The view is wonderful at the top. I'm glad that this place is not too packed with crowds. But you will still need to get there plenty early for parking. The lot is pretty small. read more

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A must see attraction for any locals and or tourists like we were! If you are in Portland or nearby you have to stop by and check it out, absolutely worth a long drive. The beach is spectacular and has all the diversity in the world. It has tide pools, dunes, coves and a insane huge rock right by the shore! Looks like something exactly for stars wars or Jurasic park! I swear to you. This spot is also very easy to get to yet not too packed because how massive it is. The ideal day of course is a sunny one so plan ahead and bring some snacks and a towel and head there as soon as possible! 10/10 Would definitely recomend for anyone and everyone looking for a easy adventure or even just trying to relax! read more

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area - Don't slip haha! - Beaches Near Me - Cloverdale, Oregon

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GREAT BEACH! Love this beach for letting the dogs run free, and seeing everyone else's dogs! Beautiful beach as well with sand dunes and a large rock (similar to cannon beach). There's also a nice little tidepooling spot in which you can see anemones, starfish, hermit crabs, etc. (TIDEPOOLING IS MY JAM). You can also have fires on the beach and watch surfers at certain times! Close to Pelican brewery if you wanna stop and have a meal or drink at the end of a beach day. Only negative is that there are no public bathrooms (that we could find). read more

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area - Beaches Near Me - Cloverdale, Oregon

Amazing and a must stop by if visit my Portland or nearby. Worth the drive over. Climb the rocks to get to the tip and stay for sunset maybe even catch a glimpse of a whale. Amazing!! read more

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I had the pleasure of spending a wonderful recent weekend with my Son in Portland. On that Saturday, we took a road trip to the Coast and stopped here at his favourite place - Cape Kiwanda State Park. Cape Kiwanda is part of the Three Capes Scenic Route (along with Cape Meares and Cape Lookout). Kiwanda is the smallest of the three, but it is one of the best places to experience spectacular scenery, waves, walking the beach, and watching the hang gliders. Distinctive features include the big sand dune (which he went straight up and I approached from the side after hiking other parts) and Haystack Rock. We also witnessed a wedding photo shoot, and got a lot of great exercise as well navigated the Cape. read more

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Spectacular views and amenities! Cape Kiwanda's RV park is within walking distance of the beach and everything we needed or could want. Gretchen and Cody welcomed us at the RV park and made us feel welcome and at home. Cafe Stimulus had world's best quiche and scone. We had the Wild Lavender Berry Latte, we don't usually like Lavender but it was yummy so we got it every day. Superb family stay, we will definitely be back this summer! read more

I'm so glad that I got to experience this beautiful park/beach. My visit here was in the middle of Winter, but I still had a great time! As mentioned in other reviews, you must hike the sand dune! Not gonna lie... I had to take a couple of breaks to get to the top because I'm so outta shape, but the views from the top made the little hike totally worth it. It seems like most people take a straight path to the top, but I did see some people go around the dune towards the right for a less steep of a climb. If you're trying to figure out how to get here, use directions to get to the Pelican Brewery which basically shares a parking lot with the park. I can't wait to come back during a sunnier/warmer time! read more

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area - Gorgeous even in the winter - Beaches Near Me - Cloverdale, Oregon

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This is my happy place. I've been fortunate enough to enjoy some gorgeous beaches around the world, and this little stretch of the Oregon coast is one of my favorites. Why? Diversity. The beach itself is pretty nice, but once you add in the tidal pools, dunes, coves and an impressive, giant monolithic rock right off the shore? You're in an amateur photographers dream. This spot is just stunning and shockingly accessible. If your ideal day is hanging out on the beach, this would be a good one. Throw down a blanket, pack a picnic and let the time just fly by. It gets busy but to me has never seemed prohibitively crowded, and everybody can enjoy themselves. I love to bring my dog here, fly a kite, build sandcastles or whatnot. Plenty of people are playing sports and there are lots of surfers, at least by Oregon standards. If you start to feel stir crazy, go exploring! The tidal pool is super impressive and to me feels otherworldly. We got a little biology lesson, exploring the clams and mussels and whatever other sea-life had attached themselves to the rocks. The mineral deposits in the layers of rock are gorgeous. It's just so, so interesting. Of course, you can also climb up the dune, which is one hell of a workout. The views are well worth the effort, and running down quickly is just super fun. Just wear proper footwear, alright? I can't quite figure out where people are supposed to use the bathroom here, but I usually - ahem - make something work. That's really my only compliant about this beach. But that's so, so minor. This is my favorite place in the universe. You should check it out, too. read more

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So with our bought wines and goodies, we head to the coast. The Three Capes Scenic Drive to be exact. Just beautiful leisurely drive, where the summer heat fizzled into cold winds and charcoal skies. Perfect soundtrack for Sting's "The Soul Cages". We parked and headed to the sea. Expansive beach with people scattered about flying kites, searching shells, reading books, surfing (brrrr!) and climbing sand dunes (or trying at least). We found a log, sat and just meditated into the scenery. A different type of beach where I'm from, but beautiful in its contrast. Still can't get over the fact they allow cars onto the beach, odd. Not exactly the walk gently concept. This was my last check in as reception was spotty at best, then non existant (AT&T, need I say more?) Ahh, gotta love the chill of the coast. read more

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Cape Kiwanda was always my favorite beach as a teenager. I grew up in Salem, so visited Lincoln City and Newport frequently with my family... but with my friends, we'd always drive to Pacific City and Cape Kiwanda. In the mid nineties, the place became better-known and they built some hotels and restaurants and stuff, but it's still a great little beach that doesn't get crowded. It's off the beaten path, and I don't think they'll ever be able to ruin it without rerouting 101 through the town. The beach at Cape Kiwanda allows cars, so there's that for the fans. But it really serves as the north end of the beach, so the traffic tends to stick to the south of the entrance. Cape Kiwanda is a short hike to the north. You can't miss it sticking out into the ocean. For the adventuresome, there are several climbs allowing interesting views. If you're really up for a challenge, climb to the very top and enjoy an amazing view of Pacific City and the ocean. It's a tough climb, but a lot of fun coming down. For a much easier challenge, climb around the front, about a quarter of the way up, and enjoy amazing views of crashing waves, ocean caves, and rocky inlets. It's quiet and secluded, and there's a lot to see up there. It's great for romantics and photographers. Although not necessarily simultaneously. If you don't feel like climbing the sand dune, Cape Kiwanda still has a lot to offer, with a huge haystack rock in the ocean, fishing boats launching daily, modest tidepools at low tide... there's a lot to see here, and without the crowds you'll face at Lincoln City or Cannon Beach. read more

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area - Haystack Rock at low tide - Beaches Near Me - Cloverdale, Oregon

Whyyyyy have I not gone here before?! This place is AMAAAAZING and absolutely beautiful! Definitely my favorite beach in Oregon thus far!! So for all you first time visitors that has seen this place on Instagram and what not, the place you are looking for is the Cape Kiwanda Natural State NATURAL AREA, NOT the Cape Look out! Cape Lookout is about 18 minutes away. The natural area is where the cool rock formations are located. Parking: There is a parking lot next to Pelican Brewery, DRIVE PAST IT. You can park on the beach! From there, to see the cool looking cliffs/rocks whatever, walk up the slightly steep sand hill. Is that what it's called? Anyway, veer to your left and once you reach the top, you should see a fence on your left. Be a daredevil and go under the fence to get to the other side. You're going to keep going straight/upward. Be careful as it can be slippery! Make sure you're wearing shoes with some sort of grip on the sole. Once you reach an area where it looks like straight up Mars, you're going to see a cool, spaceship looking rock and behind that are the awesome looking caves (?) that you see posted on social media. If you go past this area, you'll reach an ever better looking view of a haystack rock wannabe and the ocean. Definitely coming back to spend the whole day here :) It would be a great spot to have a picnic at the top of the cliff!!! read more

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New favorite tide pools! So many starfish you probably couldn't count them all and lots of sea anemones. Also pretty clean! On top of the dune has great lookout points. Probably smart to bring your own food, as there's not many places to eat and also not much seating at all. read more

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What a great place. I almost passed it up and super glad I didn't. Spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. Whales were out when we went (July). Kid friendly place. Dunes will keep you entertained and waves are not to rough for people to get in. Some areas are blocked off for people safety but people were crossing the gate. Be careful if you do cross you won't regret it. read more

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We had so much fun seeing all of the sea life during low tide. I couldn't believe how many sea anemones, barnacles and COLORFUL starfish were around every rock. It was like being in the ocean with them without the water. The sand at this beach is smooth and free of debris, and the beach is large enough that even if crowded, it still feels like you have space to explore. read more

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So I finally made it up here after one difficult year! I have been seeing my fellow Yelpers review this place like crazy and it has been on my DO LIST for a long time. And finally I was able to get up here in Late November 2017 and OH MY GOSH! it was not a disappointment!!! We were really lucky the weekend we made down to the coast it just happened to be beautiful! And the WAVES! My goodness I have never seen such waves before. Keep in mind I was born and raised in CO so I'm not native to this area. I do a lot of landscape photography so I have been wanting to get up to the coast in these winter months to catch the waves when they crash like this, man is it ever spectacular. We didn't have a ton of time to look all around (and we are planning to come back when it gets warmer and the days are longer) but still I was just taken back by all the green areas, and beautiful coastline! We saw some deer too! They stopped right by our car, oh they were so cute. You could tell they were used to people to not have run off. I love all the rocks, you can walk and climb on them (if the tide is out) its kinda like little caves, but open on top. It was really cool. One thing I noticed and maybe someone can help me with this but there was SO MUCH SEA FOAM. I have never seen it like this before. It looked like snow! It was really cool. I just have never seen the foam gather like this in big bunches of snow or poufs of clouds all over the beach. And when you got really close to it, it sparkles! This is definitely one place to put on your list of things to do! This place is so amazing! We just hung out and I took pictures, we messed around on the beach all afternoon. It was such a beautiful day, we only had light jackets. I definitely feel lucky to live in a place where I can enjoy things like this within a few hours drive and in November! I cant wait to come back here in spring or summer! Such a cool place! Shout out to all you yelpers who have been showcasing this place! THANK YOU!!! Let me just say the pictures do it no justice, and the pictures I have seen are beautiful! So you definitely NEED TO CHECK THIS PLACE OUT!!! Its a MUST! read more

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GREAT PLACE TO EXPERIENCE THE OREGON COAST Pacific City is just developed enough to provide visitors with what they need, but still undeveloped enough to provide an authentic Oregon Coast experience. Whichever way you're driving along the coast, this is an excellent place to stop to see the sights, have a meal, or spend the night. The huge Haystack Rock off the coast (different from the one north at Cannon Beach), the sand dunes, the dory fishermen, several good restaurants -- all if it makes for a memorable visit. read more

Teeming with activity! On any given day you'll find all of Pacific City's beach goers, para-gliders, fishers, boaters and surfers populating Cape Kiwanda State Park. Park yourself on a blanket on some of the softest sand in Oregon, climb the sand dunes or search for sea creatures. You'll find your time flies here. read more

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This is like a 230 foot dune sandbox for you and your children to enjoy. You have to walk up the steep dune but it is so worth it. Then once you go up you can choose to run down Sand Mountain or sled down. This was the highlight of our trip. We laughed and had a great time even as the rain came down. We had so much sand in our hair and some of us even ate sand but we have never sled down a sand hill before. The view on top is breathtaking and you'll be able to see Pacific City and the beach. The view of Haystack Rock is pretty amazing as well. You can drive on this beach and you'll be able to choose a great place to park. You can also burn a fire and sit by the fire watching the waves. We stayed in The Cottages of Cape Kiwanda which is right across from Haystack Rock so we just walked down to this beautiful natural area. If you are in Pacific City you do not want to miss going down this dune. read more

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This place is epic, if you're into photography bring an analogue slr... worth every roll! Climb the mountain of sand and you will be rewarded... read more

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area - Truly a majestic place hidden behind the mountain of sand - Beaches Near Me - Cloverdale, Oregon

Hiked. Up sandunes. Cold but very quiet and peaceful. Went with my beau and completely had a memorable experience trying not to fall over in my raincoat with the cold winds. Breathtaking read more

Someone mentioned it in a review before.. climb up that sand dune. And pack a small picnic! It's beautiful up there. Some parts are "fenced off" but it's not a very formidable parameter. You'll probably see a lot of folks on the other side of the rope. So go at your own risk! read more

Nice RV park. Offers full hook up sites, tent spaces, dump station, LP gas, pool, store and much more. Views are of other sites no beach views. But the beach is a quick walk away. Sites appear to be asphalt or gravel with a small strip of grass and old truck wheel for campfires. Water, sewer and power were all close and worked fine. Typical resort fees come with an RV park like this but it's not outrageous. read more

A great hike. Wonderful view. Lots of people and cars, but still very enjoyable. I remember climbing up the hill as a kid and has the opportunity to climb it with my own. Good times. read more

Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area - Sunset. - Beaches Near Me - Cloverdale, Oregon

This is God's country. This is such a great area you just will have to find out for yourself. My words will not do it justice.

from a surfers eye:] great park, drive right up on the sand, and pull out your water gear, towels and screw needing a parking permit. leave your lift gate open and go enjoy the surf. read more

5 stars for the awesome scramble up the sand to some killer views. 1 star for the many a-holes, in particular families with small children (including a frightened toddler!), who paid no attention to the roped off areas (with signs saying not to cross) and climbed around them for "better views". This is a natural habitat and the number of jerks out there disrespecting it was mindblowing (not to mention terrible examples for their kids). 1 star for the beach as well, which is gross - litter everywhere (we ended up picking up a few bags of plastic and beer can debris) and rather than having one area to drive your boat to the waters edge and then have them go park it in the lot, they allow all these jerks to park on the actual beach, dripping oil and smelling of gas fumes. And MANY vehicles were just lazy surfers or idiots with their little dogs in their laps getting a look at the ocean while people tried to walk on the beach. A HUGE parking lot is just yards away but these lazy a-holes can't seem to walk from there and think it's cool to be . I'm astonished that cars and trucks are allowed to park on the beach and pollute the area. Shame on the park for allowing this. read more

Rather than joining the masses trying to reach the top of the big sand dune, we took the less difficult walk up the bluff closer to the rock. There are many pretty view points and photo opportunities. Very peaceful too. read more

Home away from home. Love the cabins here and the hot tub! Perfect little getaway. The maintenance man goes above and beyond to make the customers happy. It's very appreciated. We always have such a relaxing and wonderful time here! read more

This is the most beautiful beach I've been to yet! Not only is there a cool looking rock in the middle of nowhere (great for instagram photos) but there is also a trail up the hills to lots of hidden gems worth looking at. If you don't want to wander up the sandy hills then staying low at where the tide pools is nice too. I'm from cali and didn't realize there will be such nice beaches in Oregon :-) read more

It's a beautiful beach. And yes that sand dune climb to the top is a must do so you can count shooting stars! The dunes are training ground for the paragliders. Hopefully they will be there when you visit during the day read more

I remember coming here in the 80s when I was a kid. Now that I'm adult I travel from Boise to the coast every year. This place and the scenic byway going north is breathtaking. read more

great views, worth a stop especially if you are driving the scenic route.