Kiwanda Beach: Tallest Haystack Rock and Unique Sandstone Cliffs

Pacific City's Kiwanda Beach is one of popular tourist destinations along the Oregon Coast for various compelling reasons. The shore features picturesque sandstone cliffs, the majestic Haystack Rock, towering dunes, sandy shoreline, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, and deep clear-blue waters.

While many sandstone cliffs along the North Oregon Coast have been eroded into sandy shorelines, Cape Kiwanda has persevered, most likely due to the protection of Haystack Rock. Cape Kiwanda is the southernmost cape on the Three Capes Scenic Loop.

Kiwanda Beach's sandy shore extends four miles south from the cape' base to the Nestucca River's mouth. At the heart of Kiwanda Beach lies the iconic Haystack Rock, also recognized as Chief Kiwanda Rock. Positioned one mile offshore, this volcanic monolith is one of three Haystack Rocks along the Oregon Coast, with the most renowned one gracing Cannon Beach and another accessible through Devil's Kitchen Wayside at Bandon.

Kiwanda Beach: Things to Do

Kiwanda is terrific for all beach activities, including hiking, jogging, fat-tire biking, and horseback riding.

During low tide, , the tidepools near the rocks reveal a mesmerizing display of oceanic flora and fauna.

Winter storms move large volumes of sand, revealing the treasure underneath and creating a perfect beachcombing environment.

Surfers are drawn to Kiwanda for the longest waves in Oregon, while fishing enthusiasts converge for surf angling or the unique culture of dory fishing that defines the area.

Kiwanda Beach is a multifaceted haven, inviting visitors to explore its natural wonders and partake in a diverse range of recreational activities.

Accessing Kiwanda Beach is facilitated through three distinct points: Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City, and Bob Straub State Park.

The parking facilities at Cape Kiwanda and the Pacific City entrance are under county jurisdiction, not managed by Oregon State Parks. Visitors using these entrances are subject to a $10 parking fee.

On the other hand, parking at Bob Straub State Park is free, offering an economical option for beachgoers. It's important to note that this entrance provides access to the southern part of the beach.

If you bring a horse trailer, you must use the county parking options.

Attention, Fellow Beachgoers!

Unfortunately, our beautiful Pacific Northwest beaches are stained with trash, especially plastic. We at Oregon Discovery, as well as other unaffiliated groups of nature lovers, made a commitment to do our part in keeping our beaches clean, but we need your help too!

Whenever you go out to enjoy nature at your favorite spot, please bring a trash bag or two and help us pick up garbage. Even picking up a little bit here and there will make a huge long-term difference.

Please help us save our beautiful nature for generations to come!