Cape Kiwanda and the Cape Kiwanda Natural Area lie along the southern end of the Three Capes Scenic Route loop near Tillamook, on the Oregon coast. Kiwanda is the smallest of these three capes, but as they say: good things come in small packages. The cape is a half-mile golden-colored chunk of sandstone projecting seaward. A combination of tidal currents, configuration of the headland, and wind off the rocks makes for active surf. Its sinuous curves gleaming in the late-afternoon light of a clear day as the tide begins its return, creating those amazing waves here, can be truly inspirational. That’s not to say that it doesn’t delight the eye at other times, this just happens to be Kiwanda at its best.
A further half-mile out to sea, covering 8 acres, sits the second Oregon coastal monolith, called Haystack Rock. At 328 feet tall, it’s 90 feet taller than the Haystack at Cannon Beach to the north. It has another name: Chief Kiwanda, but very few people seem to be aware of this fact.
Look in the sky. Is that a bird … no, it’s a hang-glider. You've been warned, so don't be surprised if something very large flies over your head. This form of recreation is extraordinarily popular here, made possible by the same wind that helps whip the tidal surge into such dramatic waves. This is also one of the few places on the coast where you’ll see surfers on a regular basis.
The cliffs ease into sandy beach in both directions. From the beach at Tierra Del Mar, to the north, you’ll get a great view of Kiwanda. One mile to the south of the cape sits the artist-colony town of Pacific City. From the beach here, the historic Dory Fishing Fleet launches directly into the surf during salmon season. Dories are defined as flat-bottomed keel-less boats with the bottom planks running the length of the boat from fore to aft. The fleet is blessed in mid-June and the Dory Days Festival is in July. From this beach you’ll get a great view of both Kiwanda and Haystack together.
There are no day use or other fees for any of the parks, beaches, or viewpoints listed above.
Oregon Parks & Recreation: 800/551-6949
Websites: Cape Kiwanda Natural Area
Area Events
Pacific City Chamber of Commerce