A sheltered beachbreak and outer reef combo tucked behind Cape Kiwanda on Oregon's central coast, this Pacific City setup offers rare wind protection when the rest of the coast is getting hammered. The wave fires on big, clean W to WNW swells in the 4-12ft range, with E winds keeping faces groomed and the inner beachbreak staying manageable even as the outside reef throws heavier sections. The inner beach suits intermediates and up on smaller days, while the reef outside demands experience and confidence in cold, powerful surf. Crowds are growing as Oregon's surf scene expands, but it's not yet unmanageable. Bottom: mixed reef and beach. Season: autumn and winter. Consistency: medium. Bring a 5/4mm suit minimum and expect a shoulder-burning paddle session through a pumping shore break. Dory boats and jet skis launch from this beach, so stay alert in the lineup, especially when the weather turns nice and the beach fills up.
The parking lot fills by 10am on spring weekends and earlier in summer, which tells you everything about crowd levels. The local community is tight and knows each other well. Keep it respectful, wait your turn, and you'll be fine. Don't expect a free pass on busy weekends.
State park parking is limited. Weekday mornings are your best bet for a spot. Bob Ledbetter's South County Surf shop is close by for board rentals, wax, or a gear check. Exercise caution paddling out after heavy rain when runoff affects water quality.
When Cape Kiwanda is blown out or too crowded, Nestucca River Spit to the south can offer a different angle on the same swell. Further north, Seaside Point picks up similar W and NW energy and is Oregon's go-to left when conditions align.
Forecast by Windy.app
