23 Amazing Things to Do in Coos Bay, Oregon [2024]
LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO IN COOS BAY OREGON?
You’re in the right place! We have spent months traveling on the Oregon Coast, and the central coast near Coos Bay is amazing. We love exploring the state parks as well as riding in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. There are so many fun things to do in Coos Bay. From hiking, spending time at the beach, and camping, we will share all of our favorites here!
Things to Do in Coos Bay, Oregon
1. Cape Arago Highway
There’s no shortage of things to see and do along the Cape Arago Highway. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as plenty of opportunities for bird-watching.
The area is also home to several state parks, including Sunset Bay State Park and Shore Acres State Park. And, of course, no trip to the Cape Arago Highway would be complete without spending some time enjoying the area’s stunning coastal scenery.
2. Shore Acres State Park
Shore Acres State Park is a must-see for anyone visiting the Coos Bay area. The park is home to a beautiful rose garden, which features over 20,000 roses of over 200 varieties. The gardens are illuminated with holiday lights from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, making them a truly magical place to visit during the winter months.
We had so much fun finding the varieties of roses in the beautiful garden. My kids thought smelling all of the roses was the best. We also enjoyed the fishpond.
In addition to the gardens, Shore Acres State Park also offers a number of hiking trails, beach access, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The Simpson Beach trail is a short and easy hike that we enjoyed. The trail goes down to a nice cove on the ocean where you may spot a sea lion or seal.
There is a $5 parking fee which can only be paid for in cash so make sure to bring some with you.
3. Cape Arago State Park
Cape Arago State Park is a beautiful place to visit, with plenty of things to see and do. The coastline provides a beautiful view, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. The park is also home to several different species of birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Within the state park, there are two trails.
The north trail will take you down to really fun tide pools. We visited at low tide and saw all sorts of sea life like sea anemones, starfish, crabs, and more. You can check the tide schedule here so you can schedule your visit at low tide.
There is a pretty steep walk down to the beach from the parking area. My twins, who were six at the time, made it up, but we ended up carrying our two-year-old.
The south trail is a much shorter trail that will take you out to where you can see the sea lions. The sea lions are still a good distance away, so bring a pair of binoculars if you want a closer look.
4. Cape Arago Lighthouse
The Cape Arago Lighthouse is one of the best stops along the Cape Arago Beach Loop. There are lots of great viewpoints to see the lighthouse, but unfortunately, you cannot go out to see the lighthouse up close. This lighthouse is not operational and is not open to the public.
The best place to see the lighthouse is close to Sunset Bay State Park. There is a nice pullout where you can park your car and see the lighthouse.
5. Sunset Bay State Park
Sunset Bay State Park is one of the most beautiful places on the southern Oregon Coast. The bay is absolutely stunning, and the views from the cliffs are incredible. There are also a ton of things to do in the park.
You can go for a swim, hike, or bike along the trail, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the view. If you’re looking for an enjoyable and affordable place to stay on the Oregon Coast, Sunset Bay State Park is definitely worth considering.
We spent the afternoon at Sunset Beach and had a wonderful time here after visiting the tidepools in Cape Arago State Park. The beach is sandy, and the water in the bay is great for swimming if you can stand the cold temperatures. There are picnic tables if you’ve packed a lunch.
6. Hike the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a mecca for hiking enthusiasts. The area boasts over 40 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. And with views of both the ocean and the dunes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The two most popular trails that go through the sand dunes are the John Dellenback Trail which is 5.4 miles and runs through the Umpqua Dunes as well as the forest.
Another great place to go hiking is the Tahkenitch Dunes. The trail is about six miles and starts at the Tahkenitch Campground and continues on to Threemile Lake and the coast.
No matter what your hiking level, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a fun place to explore and one of our favorite parts of visiting Coos Bay. Remember hiking in loose sand can be difficult, so make sure to remember your limitations and bring plenty of water.
7. Ride the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a must-see for any off-road enthusiast. We have brought our RZR here and had a blast. The massive sand dunes, which can reach heights of over 500 feet, provide a unique and challenging terrain for riders of all skill levels. And with over 40 miles of coastline, the views are simply stunning.
There are several ways to explore the Oregon Dunes. One popular option is to rent a side-by-side vehicle, or “RZR.” These all-terrain vehicles are perfect for tackling sand dunes, and they offer a fun and exhilarating way to see the sights. Just be sure to stay on designated trails and obey all posted signs.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-time visitor, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is sure to impress. We have spent many hours riding the sand dunes here, and it is something we love doing as a family.
If you don’t have a RZR or OHV, there are a few rental companies that are right on the sand dunes, making it really easy to rent one for an hour or two. You can rent a RZR through Spinreel ATV or Steve’s ATV Rental.
▶ Read More: A Complete Guide to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
8. 7 Devils Waterfront Alehouse
7 Devils Brewing Co is a restaurant in Coos Bay, Oregon, that specializes in American and seafood cuisine. The restaurant has a full bar and serves both lunch and dinner. The restaurant has a modern feel as well as live music with amazing views of the Coos Bay River.
The menu features items such as burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood dishes. We all went for the seafood dishes, and it was delicious. Be sure also to check out their delicious dessert menu.
The 7 Devils Waterfront Alehouse is a great place to go for a casual meal with friends or family. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable.
9. McCullough Memorial Bridge
The McCullough Memorial Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Coos Bay, Oregon. Spanning the bay from North Bend to Charleston, the bridge is a vital link for both locals and visitors alike. At nearly two miles long, the bridge offers stunning views of the ocean and coastline.
It was first built in 1936 and underwent a major renovation in 2001. Today, the McCullough Memorial Bridge is an essential part of daily life in Coos Bay and a beloved landmark for residents and visitors alike.
10. Coos History Museum and Maritime Collection
The Coos History Museum is a hidden gem on the Oregon Coast. While it may be small, the museum packs in a lot of history and information about the local area. The museum covers the history of the Coos Bay area from its earliest Native American inhabitants to the present day.
It also features a variety of interactive exhibits, including a replica of a traditional Coos Native American long house and a hands-on exhibit about the local fishing industry. In addition, the museum has an extensive research library that is open to the public by appointment only.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something to do on a rainy day, the Coos History Museum is definitely worth a visit.
11. Coos Bay Boardwalk
The Coos Bay Boardwalk is one of the most popular attractions in Oregon. Stretching for nearly a mile along the waterfront, the boardwalk offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding mountains. It is also a great place to people watch, as locals and tourists alike flock to the boardwalk to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
The boardwalk is also home to a number of shops, seafood restaurants, and hotels. Whether you’re looking for a place to take a romantic stroll or simply want to enjoy some of the best views in Oregon, the Coos Bay Boardwalk is a great place to spend an hour or two.
12. Mingus Park
Mingus Park is one of the most popular parks in Coos Bay, Oregon. The park is named after the nearby Mingus Mountain, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean and mountains. The park is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
In addition to hiking and picnicking, Mingus Park also offers a number of amenities, such as a playground, a basketball court, a disc golf course, and a Japanese Garden. My kids loved the playground there.
Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors or just want to take in the beautiful surroundings, Mingus Park is one of the best things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.
13. Oregon Coast Historical Railway
The Oregon Coast Historical Railway in Coos Bay, Oregon is a great place to visit if you are interested in trains and the history of the area. The railway offers a variety of different rides, including a few that go right along the coast. You can also take a ride on an old-fashioned steam train.
The railway has a number of different locomotives and cars that you can tour, and there is also a museum on site. The museum has exhibits on the history of the area, as well as the railway itself.
If you are interested in learning more about the Oregon Coast Historical Railway or just want to take a ride on a beautiful steam train, this is a great stop.
14. Coos Art Museum
The Coos Art Museum is a hidden gem nestled in the small town of Coos Bay, Oregon. It’s one of the few museums on the Oregon Coast, and it offers a wide variety of exhibitions and programming throughout the year. The Coos Art Museum is known for the quality of the exhibits and the friendly staff.
The museum is housed in a historic building that was once a courthouse, and it has two floors of exhibition space. The lower level is dedicated to changing exhibitions, while the upper level houses a permanent collection of art from Coos Bay native Steve Prefontaine.
In addition to exhibitions, the museum also offers a variety of educational programs for kids and adults. There’s something for everyone at the Coos Art Museum, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
15. Sunset Bay Golf Course
Sunset Bay Golf Course in Coos Bay, Oregon is one of the most beautiful and scenic golf courses in the state. The layout of the course is challenging but fair, and there are a variety of different holes to keep things interesting. The greens are well-maintained, and the fairways are in great condition.
In addition, the staff is friendly and accommodating, making Sunset Bay Golf Course a great place to enjoy a round of golf.
16. Bastendorff Beach
Bastendorff Beach is one of the most popular sandy beaches in Oregon. Located in the city of Coos Bay, the beach is known for its scenic views, beautiful sunsets, and abundant wildlife. Every year, thousands of visitors come to Bastendorff Beach to enjoy its many amenities, including picnic areas and a nature trail.
The beach is also a popular spot for fishing, whale watching, swimming, and surfing. In addition to its natural beauty, Bastendorff Beach is also home to a variety of birds and mammals, including ospreys, seals, and sea lions. Visitors can often see these animals up close as they feed and play in the surf.
We love visiting this beach when we are in Coos Bay. The beach is wide and clean with a short walk from the parking lot. We also found this beach to be a little less windy than some of the surrounding beaches.
17. Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area
Golden and Silver Falls are two beautiful waterfalls located near Coos Bay, Oregon. Although they are relatively close to each other, the two falls have very different personalities. Golden Falls is the larger of the two, with a wide cascade of water tumbling down a rocky cliff into a pool below.
Silver Falls, on the other hand, is a slender ribbon of water that flows over a smooth rock face. Both falls are worth visiting, but if you only have time for one, Silver Falls is the more scenic of the two.
Golden and Silver Falls are about 45 minutes outside of Coos Bay. The second half of the drive is on a dirt road, with part of that road being one-way. We weren’t sure what would have happened had we met a driver coming the other way. Luckily, we didn’t, but it was nerve-wracking.
18. Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area is one of the best places in Oregon to see elk up close. The viewing area is located in a meadow near the town of Coos Bay, and it is open to the public year-round.
Elk can be seen grazing in the meadow along this three-mile stretch. There are two designated viewing areas as well as many observation pull-outs. When we visited, some of the middle sections had been burned, but we saw the elk towards the edges of the meadow, where there was less fire damage.
19. Day Trip to Bandon, Oregon
Just a few hours south of Portland, on the Oregon Coast, lies the charming town of Bandon. With its quaint shops and picturesque beach, Bandon is the perfect place to spend a day exploring. Start your day with a cup of coffee and a pastry at one of the local cafes.
Then, stroll along the boardwalk and take in the fresh ocean air. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a kayak and paddle out to see the sea lions that frequent the harbor. In the afternoon, head to one of Bandon’s renowned golf courses for a round or two. And finally, end your day with dinner at one of the town’s seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh-caught Dungeness crab.
Bandon is about 45-minutes south of Coos Bay.
20. Egyptian Theatre
The Egyptian Theatre has been open as a movie theater since 1925. Today, it is a common place to go for stand-up events in the area as well as movie screenings. There is a good variety of classics, independent films, and film festivals that you can see at the Egyptian Theater.
21. Elliott State Forest
Elliott State Forest is a beautiful forest near Coos Bay, Oregon stretching up to Reedsport. The forest is home to many hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic viewpoints. The Ridgetop Drive is the most popular thing to do in the forest.
The West Fork of the Millicoma River is accessible from the Ridgetop Drive. Hiking is allowed here, but there are not any designated or maintained trails in the area.
22. Cranberry Sweets
A trip to the Oregon Coast is not complete without a stop at the Cranberry Sweets shop in Coos Bay, especially if you are traveling with kids. The small, family-owned business has been making delicious cranberry treats for over 30 years.
The shop offers a wide variety of sweets, including fudge, toffee, truffles, and caramels. But the real star of the show is the cranberry candies. These handcrafted confections are made with real Oregon cranberries and come in a variety of flavors, such as chocolate, orange, and raspberry.
Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or a tasty treat, Cranberry Sweets will surely have something to please your palate.
23. Day Trip to Florence, Oregon
Florence is a small and charming city just north of Coos Bay. Florence is another town that we love to visit. There is a small downtown area along with some beautiful beaches. Florence is a great place to go crabbing or explore the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
There are also great camping and RV parks in Florence if you can’t find availability in Coos Bay. Check out our guide to the best RV parks near Florence.
▶ Read More: 26 Best Things to Do in Florence, Oregon
Map of Things to Do in Coos Bay, Oregon
Where is Coos Bay, Oregon?
Coos Bay is a small city located in southwestern Oregon, on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. It is situated at the mouth of the Coos River, about halfway between Portland and San Francisco. Coos Bay is actually one of our favorite day trips from Portland destinations.
What are the most popular things to do in Coos Bay with kids?
There’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Coos Bay. They will love spending time at Sunset Bay State Park, where they can build sandcastles, explore tide pools, and fly kites.
If you’re looking for something educational, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Coos History Museum, where they can learn all about the history of this Oregon Coast town. No matter what your kids are into, they’re sure to find something to enjoy in Coos Bay.
What are the best free things to do in Coos Bay?
Coos Bay is a beautiful Oregon coastal town with plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. From hiking and biking trails to beachcombing and tide-pooling, there are many ways to enjoy the outdoors here. The best part is that most of these activities are free or have a very small entrance fee. For example, Sunset Bay State Park is a great place for a hike or a picnic.
There are also several excellent beaches in Coos Bay, like Bastendorff Beach, which offers stunning ocean views. With so many free things to do, Coos Bay is an Oregon gem that should not be missed.
Hotels in Coos Bay, Oregon
Best Western Holiday Hotel
If you’re looking for a great place to stay with excellent staff and service, the Best Western Holiday Hotel is a great option. It is located near the Coos River near the Coos History Museum. It is close to all of the fun things to do in Coos Bay.
There is a hot tub and pool on-site as well as laundry facilities. If you are looking for larger hotel rooms, they have rooms that sleep up to six people in their family suites. We love having a little extra space in the suite rooms.
▶ Check Rates & Book: Best Western Holiday Hotel
⭐ Best Western Holiday Hotel Reviews (3.9 Out of 5 Stars)
Great location. – Martha (Expedia Review)
They made sure we had the rooms we wanted and they were side by side. So helpful with a special needs child. – Teresa (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Best Western Holiday Hotel
Getting to the Best Western Holiday Hotel
📍 Best Western Holiday Hotel Address: 411 N Bayshore Dr, Coos Bay, OR 97420 | Google Maps | Book Best Western Holiday Hotel
The Red Lion Hotel
The Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay is a great hotel sitting close to the banks of the Coos River. It is within walking distance of many great restaurants in downtown Coos Bay as well as a lot of the fun things to do..
The hotel is pet-friendly and has a free airport shuttle. They also offer free bike rentals which is a perfect way to explore Coos Bay. There is a nice outdoor pool as well.
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⭐ The Red Lion Hotel Reviews (3.5 out of 5 Stars)
Wonderful staff – Mira (Expedia Review)
Staff was very helpful and pleasant during our stay. The room was clean and more spacious than we expected- Overall, it was fairly decent for a one night stay. – Brittni (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: The Red Lion Hotel
Getting to the Red Lion Hotel
📍 Red Lion Hotel Address: 1313 N Bayshore Dr., Coos Bay, Oregon 97420 | Google Maps | Book the Red Lion Hotel Now
Sunset Oceanfront Lodging
Sadly, there are not very many options for hotel lodging right on the beach in Coos Bay, but you can find a great option south in Bandon. The Sunset Oceanfront Lodging is a beautiful pet-friendly property with a hot breakfast and an indoor swimming pool.
It offers a large variety of room setups, including rooms with ocean views, sleeping up to four guests. The hotel has a large beachfront area which is great for windsurfing.
▶ Check Rates & Book: Sunset Oceanfront Lodging
⭐ Sunset Oceanfront Lodging Reviews (4.2 out of 5 Stars)
The ocean view was amazing. – Donna (Expedia Review)
The location of this property is incredible! The views are breathtaking! The hotel is not fancy and modern, but it is pristine and well maintained. It overlooks the ocean and you can walk right down on the beach. Hope to come back again! – Dianna (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Sunset Oceanfront Lodging
Getting to Sunset Oceanfront Lodging
📍 Sunset Oceanfront Lodging Address: 1865 Beach Loop Dr, Bandon, OR, 97411 | Google Maps | Book Sunset Oceanfront Lodging Now
Camping in Coos Bay, Oregon
If you are planning on camping in Coos Bay, Oregon, there are lots of great campgrounds on the Oregon Coast here. The state parks in the area have great campgrounds, and there are private campgrounds there as well.
Some of the public campgrounds in the area are Sunset Bay State Park Campground and Bastendorff Beach Park. South in Bandon, you will find Bullards Beach State Park.
If you want an RV park with more amenities or are interested in tiny cabins, check out Bay Point Landing. Be sure to bring an RV rug along to limit the dirt and pine needles getting into your living space.
FAQ: Things to Do in Coos Bay, Oregon
What is Coos Bay known for?
Coos Bay is a beautiful coastal town in Oregon that is known for its stunning scenery, its friendly residents, and its abundance of outdoor activities. The bay itself is a natural wonder, and it’s surrounded by forests, mountains, and beaches.
There are plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, camping, and exploring in the nearby area. Coos Bay is also home to some great restaurants and shops. The community is very close-knit, and there’s always something going on. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back place to relax or an adventurous getaway, Coos Bay is the perfect spot.
Is Coos Bay worth visiting?
If you want a getaway with lots of outdoor activities or you’re interested in visiting the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Coos Bay is a picturesque town with a lot to offer visitors. The bay itself is beautiful, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, like hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
There are also some great restaurants and shops in town. Overall, we had a great time in Coos Bay and we would definitely recommend it as a place to visit.
Does Coos Bay have a downtown?
Coos Bay does have a downtown area, and it is actually quite charming. The downtown area is located right on the water, and there are a variety of shops and restaurants to enjoy. The downtown area is also home to a number of historical buildings, which add to the charm of the area.
One of the most notable landmarks in the downtown area is the Coos Bay Waterfront Promenade, which offers stunning views of the bay. Overall, the downtown area of Coos Bay is a great place to visit, whether you’re looking for a place to shop or just to take in the sights.
Weather in Coos Bay
Coos Bay, as well as the surrounding area, has pretty typical weather for the Oregon Coast. Most days, even in the summer, have mild temperatures. In the winter months, you can expect a high of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit with rainfall on about 50% of the days.
During the spring, temperatures start to go up slightly with rain about 50% of the time. By the summer months, you can expect highs in the 60s with rain about 15-20% of the days.
Conclusion: Things to Do in Coos Bay, Oregon
We hope you have enjoyed this guide about the best things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon. It is such a beautiful part of the Pacific Northwest and an area that we love to visit. There are so many great outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy.
Whether you’re visiting over a short trip or spending a lot of time there, you will love the mild weather and beautiful outdoors.
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