This sandstone headland just north of Pacific City offers one of the best viewpoints on the coast for witnessing the ocean's power. The landmark is one of three along the Three Capes Scenic Route (along with Cape Meares and Cape Lookout). Your steep climb up the towering dune will be rewarded with scenes of waves pummeling rugged, twisting rocks and crevices. The fragile nature of sandstone means the ocean is constantly eroding and re-sculpting the entire scene, right before your eyes.
Beyond the fence, the cliff edge can — and will — crumble without warning. It's dangerous, and people have died after climbing over the safety fences. Don’t do it. The views are spectacular from the established viewpoints, on the safe side of the fence.
The headland frames Pacific City's popular beach, perfect for kite flying and watching the dory boats. Pacific City is home port to more than 300 of these traditional fishing vessels that have been used for hundreds of years. The city supports this tradition by protecting access at Cape Kiwanda for dory boat launching and hosting the annual Dory Days Parade.
The beach north of the county-run parking lot and boat ramp is available for parking by people launching or retrieving a boat. The beach from the county boat ramp is closed to motor vehicles from there south about a quarter mile. Boats may occasionally launch from this area when the area just north of the ramp is unsafe for launching or retrieving boats. All street-legal vehicles are allowed on the beach north of the cape to Tierra Del Mar, and between Pacific Avenue and Porter Point. See our maps and May 20, 2021 news release for details.
Access key maps for this location, created and maintained by Oregon Parks & Recreation Department staff for the public.
Tillamook County operates the parking lot on either side of Hungry Harbor Road and charges a $10 Day Use Access Pass to park.
The area was acquired by purchase and by a gift from B. A. McPhillips in 1973.