Things to Do in Pacific City

Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
Located along the Three Capes Scenic Loop about 45 minutes north of Pacific City, Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint features dramatic coastal overlooks, a historic lighthouse and towering old-growth Sitka spruce. Short walking trails wind through forested headlands to ocean viewpoints, including the famous Octopus Tree and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge. Whale watching opportunities can be enjoyed seasonally from the scenic overlooks.

Buzzard Butte Mountain Bike Trails
Located about 15 minutes north of Pacific City, the Tillamook Off-Road Trail Alliance (TORTA) is building the area’s first public mountain biking trail system with a growing network of flow trails, berms, jumps and technical terrain through coastal forest. Designed with progression and accessibility in mind, the trails range from beginner-friendly green runs to advanced jump and technical lines, welcoming riders of varying skill levels. Views of Cape Lookout and the Pacific Ocean add to the experience, while e-bikes are permitted and a forest service road provides access back to the trailheads for repeat laps.

Paddle the Nestucca River where you may see bald eagles, harbor seals and salmon along the way. Borrow a bike at the inn and pedal 1.5 miles to Nestucca Adventures to rent kayaks or paddleboards.

Immerse yourself in a Pacific City tradition and head out with an experienced dory boat captain. Launch directly from the beach and spend the day fishing for rockfish, lingcod, Dungeness crab and more, depending on the season.

Wander the vibrant tide pools at the base of Cape Kiwanda and uncover a hidden world of marine life. Spot sea stars, tiny tunicates and prehistoric sculpins among the rocks, and observe how these fascinating creatures reflect the health of the ocean. With each wave, a new discovery awaits in this ever-changing coastal ecosystem.

Embark on a Pacific City hike up the 240-foot Cape Kiwanda Dune, a one-mile loop that takes about an hour to complete. The trail features a significant sand dune ascent, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Haystack Rock, Nestucca Bay and Cape Lookout.

This 1.2-mile trail loops through old-growth forests along Nestucca Ridge. Enjoy gentle inclines and an elevation gain of approximately 186 feet. Along the way, you’ll encounter lodgepole pines, huckleberries, salal and usnea. The trail provides unique views of Pacific City’s seascape, including Haystack Rock.

Pacific City is home to one of the best cold water surf breaks on the North Oregon Coast. Watch surfers carve the waves at Cape Kiwanda or grab a board and join the action. New to surfing? Rent gear or schedule a lesson with Moment Surf Company.

Discover this hidden gem nestled near Cape Meares on the Oregon Coast. This secluded spot is renowned for its exceptional agate hunting opportunities. Explore the shoreline, especially during winter and spring months when ocean currents reveal treasures like agates, jasper, petrified wood and fossils.

This moderate 4.6-mile out-and-back trail traverses a nature preserve and Siuslaw National Forest, with a 1,200 ft elevation gain. The top of the knoll will provide panoramic views of our Oregon Coast and the mouth of the Salmon River.

Begin the Three Capes Scenic Loop in downtown Tillamook and follow a 40-mile drive connecting three state parks: Cape Meares, Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda. Along the way, take your time to soak in sweeping views, coastal beauty and the charm of this unforgettable Oregon drive.

Visit Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site to see the tallest waterfall in the Coast Range. Dropping 319 feet over several tiers, the falls are a spectacular sight. A short quarter-mile trail winds along Munson Creek through old-growth forest to a scenic viewpoint, accessible for all ages and experience levels.

Explore the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge on a scenic 2.2-mile trail winding through nearly 200 acres of federally protected wildlife habitat. Stroll through coastal prairie, mixed-alder forest and wildflower meadows, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Along the way, pause to admire the stunning confluence of the Nestucca and Little Nestucca Rivers.

Hike along 3.5 miles of looping trails across one of Oregon’s last intact estuaries, home to the endangered snowy plovers. You’ll see tidal flats, saltwater marshes, forested wetlands, abundant marsh wildlife, beach views and the beautiful native grass-like plants for which this beautiful spot was named.

Saddle up for an unforgettable horseback ride adventure on the beach. Enjoy a one-hour guided ride with Twin Creeks Beach & Trail Rides along the water’s edge and through scenic dunes at Bob Straub State Park. Breathe in the salty ocean air and take in the breathtaking views as experienced guides lead the way.