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Cape Kiwanda offers direct Pacific Ocean access via a concrete and plank boat ramp located in the Cape Kiwanda Recreation Area near Pacific City. This county-run facility serves kayakers, canoeists, and small authorized ocean craft looking to explore the Oregon coast. A large state-owned parking lot is available adjacent to Cape Kiwanda Drive and the Pelican Pub and Inn, with additional beach parking available south of the ramp when sand conditions are firm and tide conditions permit.
Paddlers should be aware that this is an ocean access point with dynamic coastal conditions. The beach north of the parking lot is designated for dory boat launching, though enforcement varies. The area is dog-friendly, though pets should be leashed near the cliffs. Note that ADA accessibility is limited to the observation deck next to the boat ramp. Given the proximity to the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge (1,202 acres at the confluence of the Nestucca and Little Nestucca Rivers), this location provides excellent opportunities for exploring both open water and estuarine paddling.
Several reservable campgrounds are within 10 miles, including Castle Rock Group Campground, Sandbeach Campground at Sand Lake Recreation Area, and Hebo Lake Campground, making this an ideal base for a multi-day paddling adventure on the northern Oregon coast.