Last Updated on June 15, 2023
In Pacific City, Oregon, there’s a remarkable natural feature known as the Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune that people love to visit.
The Pacific City sand dune is a massive 240 feet high hill of sand that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. This place is famous for activities like sandboarding, climbing, and having picnics around the giant sand dune.
The Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune is a relatively young formation, created around 5,000 years ago. It consists of sand that has blown inland from the nearby beach over time.
Due to the constant action of wind and waves, this dune is in a perpetual state of motion, continuously shifting and transforming its shape.
Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area
Beyond the sand dune itself, you’ll be delighted to discover the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.
Spanning 185 acres (75 hectares), this expansive park encompasses not only the dune but also stunning beaches, cliffs, and a lush forest.
Throughout the year, you can engage in various activities, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and exploring captivating tide pools.
Activities
You’ll find plenty of fun activities to enjoy at the sand dunes in Pacific City.
Hiking
One of the most exciting and popular activities to do at the Pacific City sand dune is climbing up the giant dune.
Although it may require a bit of effort, the rewards are absolutely worth it. As you make your way up the dunes, step by step, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment building within you.
And when you finally reach the top, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking panoramic views of the vast Pacific Ocean and the stunning coastline stretching out before you.
It’s a moment that will take your breath away and leave you feeling connected to the immense beauty of nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera along because you’ll want to capture these awe-inspiring moments and share them with others. Trust me, the pictures you take from up there will be truly awesome!
Sandboarding
The Cape Kiwanda sand dune is not only the closest sandboarding spot to Pacific City, but also the highest and steepest slope in the area, which makes it an ideal location to try this exciting sport.
Sandboarding is the sand alternative to snowboarding, and Cape Kiwanda is only one of several hotspots in Oregon where this activity can be practiced. You will need a special board called a sandboard.
You can rent your sandboard from the Cape Kiwanda RV Resort Marketplace. The cost is $10 per hour or $25 for the day. The sandboards are available for rent from 9 am to 8 pm, seven days a week.
Hang Gliding and Paragliding
If you’re someone who craves a unique and awe-inspiring perspective of the beautiful Oregon coast, then hang gliding and paragliding at the sand dune are the perfect options for you.
Imagine soaring above the dunes, feeling the wind beneath your wings, and witnessing breathtaking views that seem straight out of a dream.
Getting There
To reach the Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune, you can drive to Pacific City and park your vehicle at the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area parking lot. It’s a short walk from there to the top of the dune.
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Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune FAQs
How tall is the sand dune at Pacific City?
The sand dune at Pacific City, known as the Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune, stands at an impressive height of 240 feet. It’s a massive hill of sand that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This tall and majestic dune is one of the highlights of visiting Pacific City and attracts visitors from near and far.
How was the Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune formed?
The Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune in Pacific City was formed over thousands of years. It began around 5,000 years ago when sand from the nearby beach was blown inland by the wind.
These windblown sands gradually accumulated, creating a massive hill of sand. The dune continues to evolve as wind and wave action shape and reshape its form.
How to get to Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune?
The Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune is located just off Highway 101 in Tillamook, Oregon. The easiest way to get there is to drive. There is a small parking lot at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. If the parking lot is full, you can park in the overflow lot and walk to the trailhead.
How long is the hike to Cape Kiwanda Sand Dunes?
The hike to the top of the dunes is short and easy, about 0.25 miles round trip. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. Once you reach the top of the dunes, you can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Neskowin Beach.
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