Pacific City is a popular surf spot located along the Oregon coast, known for its picturesque views and user-friendly beachbreak. The area is accessible and laid-back, making it a go-to for surfers of all skill levels. The wide, sandy beach at Cape Kiwanda adds to the appeal, especially when conditions are right. Due to its popularity, the spot can get crowded, particularly on weekends when the surf is mellow and inviting. It’s a great place to catch some waves and relax at the beach after a session.
The surf here works best with swells coming from the south to the west, handling sizes from about 5 to 7 feet (1.5 to 2.1 meters). The waves break over soft sand, which is great for beginners trying to get the hang of it. You can expect both lefts and rights, depending on the swell direction. Conditions are generally best during mid tide, and the preferred wind directions are from the northeast to east-southeast. This spot can serve up some fun waves but also has its fair share of flat days. Don’t expect heavy barrels here; it’s mostly soft and manageable, making it ideal for shortboards, funboards, longboards, and fishes.
Summer and autumn are the prime seasons for surf at Pacific City, with the waves being suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced surfers. Just keep in mind that the crowd factor can be high, especially when the surf is decent. Also, be aware of the moderate shark factor and the occasional tsunami risk in the area. Overall, it’s a solid spot to enjoy some beach time and share waves with fellow surfers.