There’s no shortage of things to do on the Oregon Coast this summer – starting, of course, with the coastal beaches and dramatic, rocky scenery Oregon is known for. As fantastic as the beaches are, though, don’t forget about the charming Oregon Coast towns you get to visit along the way!
The coast provides a dramatic backdrop for all manner of outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the numerous state parks and hiking trails, indulge in water sports like kayaking and surfing, or simply stroll along the sands, taking in the panoramic vistas and possibly catching sight of migrating whales. While the coast of Oregon is famed for its rugged cliffs, expansive beaches, and ceaseless ebb and flow of the Pacific Ocean – a magnificent place to visit even in the height of winter when the waves and storms are at their most dramatic – we think it’s the Oregon Coast towns that truly make vacations here so memorable.
Each town offers its own charm and history. Bandon, for example, is a picturesque coastal town renowned for its spectacular ocean views, historic lighthouse, and the world-famous Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. Here, travelers can enjoy local seafood at quaint seaside eateries, browse through eclectic boutiques, and experience the local arts scene. Head beyond Bandon to other places like Coos Bay, and you’ll find each offers its own slice of coastal magic.
To truly savor the spirit of the Southern Oregon Coast, consider extending your stay by booking a room at our top-rated hotel in Bandon, Oregon. Our hotel provides welcoming accommodations and world-class hospitality, ensuring a comfortable base from which you can discover the richness of Oregon’s Southern Coast. Join us for an extraordinary vacation this summer – book your stay today!
Bandon: One of the Best Oregon Coast Towns
There are plenty of charming, fun, and interesting Oregon Coast towns along this 363-mile stretch of coastline. It probably goes without saying, but Bandon is one of our favorites – and it’s not just because that’s where our hotel is!
Bandon, Oregon, stands out as a premier destination along the Southern Oregon Coast, a town best known for its striking landscapes and vibrant community spirit. The Old Town district is a bustling hub where historic buildings abound, housing various shops, galleries, and eateries. Events like the annual Cranberry Festival celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage, adding a festive atmosphere to this charming town on the Oregon Coast.
The artistic spirit of Bandon is undeniable, evident in its many galleries and boutiques. But as much as we love the town, it’s impossible to separate a visit to Bandon without talking about the dramatic coastal scenery at our forefront. Bandon offers dramatic views of the Pacific, complemented by rugged cliffs and expansive beaches that draw photographers and nature lovers from around the world.
The town’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while fostering a welcoming community atmosphere makes it a unique spot for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure. It’s this perfect blend of energy and activities that makes Bandon one of the best Oregon Coast towns to visit this summer. When you do visit, here are the top things to do!
- Explore the scenic trails and stunning views at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint. You’ll have easy access directly from our hotel.
- Play a round of golf at the internationally renowned Bandon Dunes Golf Resort or one of the other fantastic golf courses in the area.
- Visit the Coquille River Lighthouse, a historic beacon with captivating views of the coastline, at Bullards Beach State Park.
- Stroll through Bandon’s Old Town, enjoying the unique shops, galleries, and waterfront dining.
- Watch artisans at work and taste the local cheese at the Face Rock Creamery.
- Take a horseback ride along the beach for a unique perspective of Bandon’s natural beauty.
- Explore the diverse ecosystems at the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.
- Explore the tidal pools, walk the daily labyrinths drawn in the sand on summer mornings, and enjoy the best of Bandon Beach and other local beaches.
More Fun in the Bustling Town of Coos Bay
Bandon may be one of our favorite Oregon Coast Towns, but a close second is Coos Bay, just to the north of us. Coos Bay, Oregon, is the largest city on the Oregon Coast and offers a robust blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a standout destination for visitors. Coos Bay is home to a deep harbor and, as such, has a long maritime history, something that is celebrated in local museums and monuments.
Like most Oregon Coast towns, Coos Bay is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes that serve as a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s waterways are ideal for fishing, boating, and kayaking, while the vast dunes and forests invite hiking and off-road vehicle adventures. There are so many fantastic things to do in Coos Bay that we can’t possibly do it justice here. But, to get you started, here’s a list of some of our favorite reasons to venture north to this fantastic town on the Southern Oregon Coast.
- Start your South Coast adventure at the Coos History Museum, where you’ll learn about the area’s rich maritime and logging past and gain a much deeper appreciation for this unique coastal town.
- The Coos Bay Harbor is spectacular, and one place to take it all in is the Coos Bay Boardwalk. From here, you’ll enjoy beautiful waterfront views and local art installations, making it one of the top things to do in Coos Bay.
- From there, head into downtown Coos Bay, where you’ll find several wonderful galleries and boutiques to visit, not to mention excellent restaurants featuring some fresh-from-the-ocean seafood.
- For a relaxing afternoon, kayak or paddleboard in the serene waters of South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve.
- If you really want an adventure, one of the best things to do in Coos Bay is to head just north of the city to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Here, you can hike or ride ATVs over vast sand dunes—one of the most exhilarating things to do on the Oregon Coast!
- Hike the trails of Cape Arago State Park, offering spectacular ocean views and access to secluded beaches.
- Fish from the public piers, head to local rivers and lakes, or charter a boat for a deep-sea fishing adventure. There are a number of local charters in town, including Southern Oregon Anglers and Sharky’s Charter Fishing.
- Visit Shore Acres State Park, known for its beautiful formal gardens and rugged coastal views. This is also one of the best places to enjoy coastal whale watching, and thus is one of the top things to do in Coos Bay!
These are just two fantastic Oregon Coast Towns nearby that we recommend you visit. There are so many more small towns and off-the-beaten-path destinations worth exploring on the Southern Coast of Oregon this summer, and we’d love to be your home base for all of it. Book your room at our top-rated hotel in Bandon, Oregon, today!
