Pacific City, Oregon Town Guide | Cape Kiwanda & Dory Fleet Paradise

Welcome to Pacific City, Oregon — one of the most unique and visually spectacular communities on the entire Oregon Coast. Home to Cape Kiwanda, a massive golden sandstone headland that towers above the surf, and the famous fleet of dory boats that launch directly through the waves, Pacific City is unlike anywhere else on Earth.

About Pacific City, Oregon

Pacific City is an unincorporated community in Tillamook County, situated at the mouth of the Nestucca River where it meets the Pacific Ocean. The community is defined by three remarkable natural features: Cape Kiwanda, a broad natural headland of tawny sandstone; Haystack Rock (Pacific City has its own Haystack Rock, distinct from Cannon Beach's), which stands in the surf just offshore; and the famous Pacific City Dory Fleet, the only remaining fleet of small ocean dory boats launched directly from the beach in North America.

The Pacific City Lifestyle

Life in Pacific City is active, beach-centered, and full of the authentic Oregon Coast spirit. The community has grown significantly in recent years, with outstanding restaurants, craft breweries (including the beloved Pelican Brewing Company, which launched its flagship location here), wine bars, and an increasingly vibrant commercial scene along the main roads.

Cape Kiwanda is the community's crown jewel — a dramatic headland you can climb for panoramic views of the ocean, the dory fleet, and Haystack Rock. The adjacent beach is wide, wind-sculpted, and absolutely magnificent. The Nestucca River offers world-class steelhead and salmon fishing just steps from many homes.

Real Estate in Pacific City

Pacific City has one of the most dynamic and rapidly appreciating real estate markets on the Oregon Coast. The combination of unique natural features, outstanding amenities, and strong tourism has driven significant demand. Oceanfront and Cape Kiwanda-area properties range from $700,000 to well over $1.5 million. Homes near the river or with partial views typically sell between $400,000 and $750,000 +.

The vacation rental market in Pacific City is among the strongest on the coast. The Pelican Brewing Company, Cape Kiwanda, and the dory beach attract visitors year-round, and the river offers fishing experiences that draw anglers from across the Pacific Northwest.

Schools Near Pacific City

Pacific City students are served by the Nestucca Valley School District, which includes Nestucca Elementary School and Nestucca High School. The district is known for its community-centered culture and strong programs in outdoor education and agriculture.

Things to Do in Pacific City

Climbing Cape Kiwanda for panoramic ocean views. Watching the dory fleet launch through the surf. Pelican Brewing Company craft beer and ocean views. Nestucca River steelhead and salmon fishing. Beach walking, surfing, and kite flying at the cape. Cape Lookout hiking (just north via the Three Capes Scenic Route). Exploring Nestucca Bay and kayaking. Annual Dory Days Festival.

Getting to Pacific City

Pacific City is located along US Highway 101, approximately 100 miles southwest of Portland. The most direct route is via Oregon Highway 22 west to US Highway 101, connecting through Otis. The drive from Portland typically takes about 100 to 110 minutes.

Ready to Find Your Place in Pacific City?

Pacific City is a one-of-a-kind place on the Oregon Coast. Whether you're drawn by Cape Kiwanda, the dory boats, the Pelican Brewery, the river fishing, or simply the raw beauty of the place, I would love to help you find your home here.

Let's work together!

Marly

KW Coast Life

971.227.5140

Click here to work with me!