Circles in the Sand is Visible in the Summer Months, Click for Schedule

Bandon, Oregon sits on the mouth of the Coquille River. It is known for its rugged coastline and outstanding scenery. Its clean air, rolling streams and wooded areas make it an ideal place to enjoy nature. 

You can spend hours taking the city’s great outdoors, or check out shops and restaurants for a laid-back metro vibe. The variety of activities makes Bandon the perfect destination for just about any visitor.  If you are thinking of visiting Bandon and wondering how to fill your days, here are some ideas!

Play Golf

Golfing is the perfect way to spend a day in Bandon. You can enjoy the relaxing sport while taking in the city’s magnificent views and breathing in the clean area.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is a popular golfing destination. It offers six different courses all of which provide their share of challenges and excitement. Each is uniquely designed with stunning scenery to take in at each hole, bar, and restaurant.

Spend the Day in Old Town

Old Town is a charming shopping district located near the city’s marina off highway 101. Stroll through to check out the unique boutiques that sell everything from beachwear to souvenirs to artwork. The town’s boardwalk is always a fun scene. If you visit between May and September, you’ll be in the area just in time to catch the Port of Bandon Boardwalk Art Show.

All the walking around is bound to work up an appetite. It’s a good thing that the area has plenty of restaurants serving up a variety of dishes including seafood, vegetarian dishes, and ethnic cuisine options.

Visit the Coquille River Lighthouse

The Coquille River Lighthouse was in operation between 1896 and 1939. Although decommissioned, it is still standing today. 

The lighthouse is one of the smallest Oregon Coast lighthouses, but that doesn’t make it any less of a lovely landmark for the city. It sits at the south end of Bullards Beach State Park just north of Bandon. Stroll the area to capture lovely photo opportunities.

If you are lucky enough to be in town when the lighthouse is open, you’ll be able to view its interior including its fog room which is full of exhibits and a gift shop that sells homemade jam and other fun items.

Enjoy Nature at Bullards Beach State Park

After visiting the Lighthouse, spend some time exploring the Bullards Beach State Park. You can hang out at the beach or take in the park via bike or horseback. Bring along a meal to enjoy at the picnic area, or rent a boat for a relaxing cruise on the water. Other things to check out include the yurt meeting hall, a horse camp, and trails that provide beach and dune access.

Go Fishing

Bandon’s many streams and beaches make it an ideal place to go fishing. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sport.

The Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge has year-round fishing at Ni-les’tun Unit, a fish and bird habitat established for the protection and restoration of marshes and riparian zones. Boats launch from the Port of Bandon, Rocky Point County Park, and Bullards Beach State Park.

The Coquille River is a terrific source for striped bass, salmon, cutthroat trout, steelhead and surfperch. While shellfishing is not permitted at Ni-les’tun Unit, it is permitted on the mudflats west of Highway 101 at the Bandon Marsh Unit.

Come in Time for the Bandon Cranberry Festival

Bandon has been nicknamed the Cranberry Capital of Oregon due to its miles of cranberry bogs. The city celebrates the fruit with a Cranberry Festival that takes place the second week of September.

Guests can enjoy the three-day event which is packed with fun activities including a cranberry eating contest, live music, a fun run, and food trucks. Shop at the Old Town Marketplace Farmer’s Market, view classic cars and watch the Coronation of the Cranberry Court.

Visit the Cranberry Sweets & More Store

If you’re not in town in time for the festival, you can still enjoy Bandon’s cranberry culture by visiting the Cranberry Sweets & More Store. The store is full of delicious treats like Beer and Cider Candies, Key Lime Cookies, Cranberry Walnut Fudge, Caramel Almond Chocolate Covered Pretzels, and more. The best part…sampling is encouraged.

Check Out the Wildlife at the Wildlife Refuge

Animal lovers will not want to miss out on a chance to visit Bandon’s Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is located where the Coquille River meets the Pacific Ocean and serves to protect one of the last salt marshes in the Coquille River estuary. It is a safe space for many of the city’s fish species.

While visiting, you will catch a view of many of the local birds that fly ahead including herons, waterfowl, sandpipers, plovers, and falcons. You will also be able to take in the surrounding scenery from Bandon Marsh Observation Deck’s vantage point. 

Take in the Views of Beach Loop Drive

Beach Loop Drive runs along the coastline south of Bandon. It is accessible via highway 101 and other local roads. There are stunning views at every turn.

Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint is a highlight featuring a series of unique offshore rocks. This is combined with vivid blue waters and miles of sandy beaches. Hike the trails to enjoy the tide pools and seashells or drive the seven-mile expanse to enjoy the scenery while checking out shops and restaurants along the way.

Have a Great Trip!

Top off your trip to Bandon, Oregon with a stay at Wander Bandon Beach. The property boasts unobstructed views of the coast, as well as a private trail to the beach. Contact Wander Concierge to start planning your next vacation.