Surf & Paddle Your Way Through Oregon’s Adventure Coast
Experiencing Oregon’s Adventure Coast by surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a delightful way to unplug and reconnect with nature. With so many lakes, rivers, and beaches to choose from, it’s not surprising that our area is a haven for outdoor lovers of all skill levels.
SURFING
More and more surfers are discovering the thrill of conquering waves off of Oregon’s Adventure Coast. We were even featured in a recent Surfer Magazine article that followed surfer Cam Richards and partner Sophie Turner as they left Florida to experience a road bike surf trip down the Southern Oregon Coast during the winter. You can watch parts of their experience here:
If surfing piques your interest, you’ll find unique opportunities here. Now, we can’t reveal the top-secret surfing spots on Oregon’s Adventure Coast; most would agree that the best way to find them is to explore and discover them for yourself. However, we CAN share that Bastendorff Beach is an excellent place to test your surfing skills.
Recognized as one of the finest and most exhilarating surfing spots on Oregon’s South Coast, Bastendorff Beach in Charleston remains uncrowded and offers beautiful ocean views. The water is refreshing but cold, so be sure to wear a wetsuit even in the summer!
KAYAKING & WATER SPORTS: PADDLE THROUGH OREGON’S ADVENTURE COAST
Important: a PFD or life jacket can save your life, even for experienced swimmers!
If you’re looking for a more leisurely way to explore the Oregon Coast, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding might be more your speed, and this region offers an abundance of options for all skill levels.
The beautiful Coos Bay, featured in the video above, is right in our backyard and easy to access, and it’s one of our favorite spots for a fun paddle adventure! Here are some other destinations to consider for a paddle adventure:
SOUTH SLOUGH NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE
With more than 4,800 acres of open water channels, tidal and freshwater wetlands, South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is a paddlers’ paradise. This local natural treasure is home to a variety of marine life, including shellfish, salmon, and birds such as Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Great Blue Herons, Egrets, and Belted Kingfishers. For more information, review the Guide to Paddling the South Slough (PDF) .
SUNSET BAY STATE PARK
Ask any local where they prefer to kayak and paddleboard, and the answer will likely be Sunset Bay State Park . Known for its calm waters and easy beach access, it is ideal for kayakers of all levels. Sunset Bay features sandy beaches protected by towering sea cliffs and a campground for tents, RVs, and cozy yurts. Day-use and picnic facilities along the bay provide easy access for kayakers and paddleboarders, as well as beachcombing, fishing, swimming, and boating.
LOCAL FRESHWATER LAKES
Head just 15 miles north of Coos Bay, and you will find approximately 2,000 acres of calm, picturesque water surrounded by mountains and lush natural beauty. Tenmile Lakes consists of two lakes: North and South Tenmile Lakes, with a combined shoreline of 42 miles, making it the largest freshwater lake on the Southern Oregon Coast and the second-largest on the entire coast. In addition to a swimming and wading area, the lakes have multiple boat ramps, a fishing dock, ample parking, picnic tables, and more. The 120-acre Empire Lakes are another great option for water recreation and are located in John Topits Park . Click here to view other freshwater lakes near Coos Bay.
Accessible kayak launches and viewing platforms at William M. Tugman State Park and John Topits Park enable individuals with mobility challenges to access the water.
LOCAL RIVERS
If rivers are more your style, the Umpqua, Coos, or Coquille rivers await, offering ideal settings for peaceful canoe outings and kayak fishing. Take a virtual SUP tour of Coos River, in beautiful Coos Bay, Oregon on the Southern Oregon Coast.
WHERE TO RENT OR PURCHASE WATER RECREATION EQUIPMENT
Don’t own your own kayak, paddleboard, or surfboard? No problem. For gear rentals and expert tips, reach out to these locally-owned businesses in the Coos Bay, North Bend, and Charleston area. Here are three to consider contacting:
Bahama Boards in Coos Bay (phone: 541-808-3535). Offers kayak, boogie board, surfboard, stand-up paddleboard, and sandboard rentals, in addition to PFDs, wetsuits, and supplies. Contact Bahama Boards to confirm availability and rental requirements
Coastal Kayak and SUP Rentals in Coos Bay (phone: 541-252-9201). Coastal rents recreational single- and tandem kayaks, fishing kayaks, SUPs, life jackets, and paddles. They will deliver and pick up equipment for an extra fee. If you prefer to not have to make reservations, they also offer self-service Kayak Kiosks at Tenmile Boat Ramp Co Park and John Topits Park/ Empire Lakes , open daily 7 am to 7 pm.
Waxer’s Surf Shop in Coos Bay (phone: 541-266-9020), rents and sells surfboards, longboards, paddleboards, sandboards, wetsuits, and related accessories. Contact Waxer’s Surf Shop to check rental inventory, rates, and lesson details.
Ready to plan your trip? Contact us now for personalized tips and the inside scoop on the best local food and activities year-round. Visit our Adventure Page for more inspiration.
