Pacific City - Point Break, Cape Kiwanda

Pacific City – Point Break, Cape Kiwanda (North West Oregon, USA) is a scenic, exposed point break on Oregon’s North Coast, set beneath the dramatic sandstone headland of Cape Kiwanda. It’s one of the state’s more famous surf locations thanks to its consistent wave shape, beautiful setting, and relatively accessible location near the town of Pacific City.

What it’s like

• Wave type: Mostly a point break with long, peeling lefts and rights depending on conditions and exact takeoff zone.
• Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers, though it can be surfed by competent beginners on smaller, cleaner days.
• Wave quality: Can offer smooth, rippable, lined-up waves when a west-northwest swell meets light offshore winds.
• Crowds: Often busy when conditions are good, especially on weekends and during surfable swells.

Conditions

• Swell: Works best on NW to WNW swell.
• Wind: Offshore winds are typically from the east or northeast.
• Tide: Tide sensitivity can matter; conditions may change a lot with the tide, so local knowledge helps.
• Water temp: Cold year-round, so a thick wetsuit is usually needed.

Hazards and considerations

• Strong currents and rips can develop, especially when the swell is up.
• Rocky and sandy bottom features may appear depending on shifting conditions.
• Cape Kiwanda itself is a major landmark and hazard area: the beach can have changing sandbars, steep sections, and surf that can look deceptively mellow from shore.
• Oregon coast surf can be powerful and unforgiving, so caution is important even on smaller days.

Vibe and scenery

This spot is known as much for its views as its surf: - The towering Cape Kiwanda sandstone cliffs - The open Pacific horizon - Frequent sightings of surfers, seabirds, and dramatic weather

Summary

Cape Kiwanda’s Pacific City point break is a classic Oregon surf spot: cold, scenic, and capable of delivering long, clean rides when swell and wind align. It’s a rewarding break for surfers who can handle the conditions and respect the power of the North Pacific.