• McPhillips Beach landscape is full of rock formations sitting right on the sand
• The steep bluffs and cliffs act like natural safety barriers for playing dogs
McPhillips Beach is a 2-mile-long stretch of sandy shoreline located just north of Cape Kiwanda. The landscape here is full of rock formations sitting right on the sand, steep bluffs, massive cliffs, and multiple boulders lying around. This is a quieter alternative to the more popular southern beach, but it might get busy in peak season too.
McPhillips is a great place for beachcombing, fat tire biking, picnicking, and enjoying the serenity of the Pacific Northwest Coast.
The gravel bars at McPhillips Beach can be a productive rockhounding spot, especially after winter storms when the force of waves moves the mass of pebbles around. Waves here are one of the longest in Oregon and thus perfect for surfing. Surf anglers can find a quiet spot for themselves to catch fish. If you intend to use the boat, you can use the ramp at Cape Kiwanda's southern beach.
McPhillips Beach attracts dog owners since the steep bluffs and cliffs behind the beach act like natural safety barriers.
To access McPhillips, take an unmarked road 1.3 miles north of the Cape Kiwanda parking lot. You can leave your vehicle at the gravel parking or keep driving downhill.
The vehicles are allowed on the beach, so you can get as close to the water as you want. However, it is not recommended since you might get stuck.
McPhillips Beach | Facts
Open: Year-round for day-use
Managed by: Oregon State Parks
Amenities: Vault toilet
Activities: Picnicking, beachcombing, fat tire biking, rockhounding, surfing, fishing, and nature viewing
Day-use fees: None
Usage: Low to moderate
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Pacific City
McPhillips Beach is located:
- 3 miles north of Pacific City
- 60 miles northwest of Salem
- 95 miles southwest of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to McPhillips Beach
From Pacific City,
- Take Cape Kiwanda Drive North
- Continue straight for 0.4 miles once it becomes McPhillips Drive
- Take a sharp left onto a no-name road.
Leave your vehicle at the gravel parking or drive downhill if you have a 4WD