A Spring Guide to Pacific City on the Oregon Coast
Spring is one of the best times to explore Pacific City, a laid-back coastal town just a short drive from Two Capes Lookout. The crowds are lighter, the beaches feel wide open, and the mix of ocean, dunes, and small-town charm makes it a perfect day trip.
Whether you're looking for adventure, family fun, or a relaxing afternoon by the ocean, Pacific City offers a little bit of everything.
Explore Cape Kiwanda and the Sand Dunes
One of Pacific City’s most iconic landmarks is Cape Kiwanda, known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and towering sand dune. The views from the top stretch for miles along the Oregon Coast and are well worth the climb.
The massive dune is also a favorite spot for sandboarding. You can rent sandboards right in town and spend the afternoon racing down the soft slopes toward the beach. It’s a fun and surprisingly fast ride for both kids and adults.
Tide Pools and One of the Best Beaches on the Coast
Pacific City is home to one of the most unique beaches on the Oregon Coast. At low tide, tide pools appear along the rocky areas near Cape Kiwanda, revealing colorful sea stars, crabs, and other marine life.
The wide sandy beach is also one of the few places on the Oregon Coast where vehicles are allowed on the sand, making it popular with families who want to bring coolers, chairs, and beach gear for the day.
Spring is also a great time for kite flying, with steady coastal breezes and plenty of open space.
Surfing & Ocean Adventures
Pacific City is widely known as one of the best surfing spots in Oregon. The beach regularly draws surfers year-round, and spring conditions often bring consistent waves.
You’ll also often see dory boats launching directly from the beach, a unique local tradition where fishing boats power straight through the surf and head out to sea. Watching a launch or landing is a memorable coastal experience.
Whale Watching Along the Coast
Spring is prime time for gray whale migration along the Oregon Coast. Bring binoculars and watch the horizon—you might spot a spout or a tail as whales travel north toward Alaska.
The cliffs and beaches around Pacific City offer several great viewpoints for spotting whales offshore.
Adventure at Sand Lake Recreation Area
Just north of Pacific City is the Sand Lake Recreation Area, a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is popular for off-road vehicles, dirt bikes, and ATVs, with miles of dunes and trails to explore.
It’s a great spot for travelers looking for a little more adrenaline during their coastal visit.
Relax, Refuel, & Enjoy the Local Scene
After a day outdoors, Pacific City has plenty of great places to unwind.
Grab a cup of excellent local coffee, enjoy a casual slice of pizza, or relax with a glass of wine at PC Pour, a welcoming wine bar in town. If you’re looking for a little extra relaxation, you’ll also find spas nearby offering the perfect way to recharge after a day on the coast.
Pacific City also enjoys a bit more sunshine than many other Oregon Coast towns, making it a wonderful place to linger outside on a spring afternoon.
Explore Pacific City from Two Capes Lookout
Pacific City is just a short drive from Two Capes Lookout, making it an easy and memorable outing during your stay. Spend the day exploring the dunes, watching surfers, and discovering tide pools—then return to the quiet bluff and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.
Spring is a beautiful season on the coast, and Pacific City is one of its best places to explore.