Top Ten Things to Do in the Coos Bay Area This Summer
Without question, summer is one of our favorite seasons on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston. While much of the West Coast is enduring record-breaking heat, we’re enjoying cool, comfortable temperatures that average in the mid-high 60s. Whether you plan to stay for a day, a weekend, a week or longer, you will find plenty of wonderful adventures to enjoy: water activities, hiking, world-class fishing, crabbing, clamming, ATVing, biking, Vegas-style gaming and more! Your adventure awaits.
Here are the top rated activities to enjoy this summer in Coos Bay/North Bend and Charleston (according to our visitors).
#1 Go Fishing, Crabbing Or Clamming! Hands down, one of our favorite adventures that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Local tip: before you head out on your fishing adventure, contact our local bait and tackle shops and ask for tips! It could save you time and money! Click here for more info.
#2 Visit the Beaches and State Parks along the Cape Arago Highway Beach Loop. An Oregon’s Adventure Coast trip is incomplete without at least one visit to the beaches and State Parks along the Cape Arago Highway Loop. The Cape Arago Beach Loop will take you to three state parks (Sunset Bay State Park, Shore Acres State Park, and Cape Arago State Park), in addition to breathtaking beaches and vantage points. Take a stroll and watch the surfers on Bastendorff Beach, or search for natural treasures in tide pools in the protected beach in Sunset Bay State Park. We recommend grabbing binoculars and taking some time to explore the Simpson Reef and nearby Shell Island to view and listen to the seals and sea lions. Shore Acres State Park, the crown jewel of Oregon’s South Coast, is not to be missed. Take a scenic stroll along the breathtaking cliffs with majestic ocean views. Be sure to visit their famous gardens for a closer look at their stunning blooms. Download this guide to help you on your route.
#3 Experience the Thrill of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. For a truly unique Oregon coast adventure, go for a ride or hike in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This national treasure is the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America; 40 miles in all. For guides, rentals and more, click here .
#4 Collect Treasures on the Southern Oregon Coast Charm Trail. Embark on a fun-filled “charming” adventure the whole family will enjoy as you explore local destinations and collect individual charms for your one-of-a-kind charm bracelet. Pick up a free Southern Oregon Coast Charm Trail map (or download it here ), then plan a visit to as many (or all) participating venues on the map and add other charms for $2.00 each. Make sure you get one of our super cute crab charms, and be on the lookout for any other hidden treasures as you make your way on the trail. We have a hidden charm too! Can you guess what it is? (you can even download the map to all the hidden charms here .)
#5 Try your luck in one of our casinos. Did you know that our little corner of the Pacific Northwest is home to two of the area’s best casinos? Whether it’s slots, cards, or games, you’ll find round-the-clock adventure, fun, and (fingers crossed) millions right here. Our two casinos are located within a ten-minute drive, so play your cards right and visit both. You won’t regret it. Learn more .
#6 Take a Kayak Tour On Oregon’s South Coast. For the ultimate south coast adventure, it doesn’t get much better than fishing, wildlife viewing and exploring the peaceful waterways on a guided kayak tour along Oregon’s South Coast. Click here for more info.
#7 Hike to Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area. For adventure lovers, Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area (about 30 miles from Highway 101, on Highway 241) does not disappoint! This is a perfect place to enjoy nature and solitude as you hike through scenic canyons and lush coastal forests to two magnificent waterfalls. The drive to the falls is part of the adventure, with winding roads that narrow in places and can take almost an hour to traverse. Click here for our tips and more info.
#8 Visit the Coos Bay Farmers Market If you’re here mid-week, stop by the Coos Bay Farmers Market ! The market operates every Wednesday from 9 am to 2 pm through October, and is located in the heart of the Coos Bay Downtown Historic District on Central Ave. The CBFM presents over 60 vendors who provide the community with fresh, locally grown produce, eggs, honey, meat, baked goods, roasted coffee, flowers, body care products, and handmade craft items.
#9 Visit South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. We can’t get enough of beautiful outdoor destinations, like The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (South Slough NERR) , a 5,000-acre natural area located in the Coos estuary near Charleston. Not only are there miles of hiking trails and waterways to explore, but visitors can also enjoy an abundance of wildlife viewing. Take a self-guided tour through this protected area of land and estuary, and you’ll likely spot various birds like Bald Eagles, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Belted Kingfishers. Read more about South Slough NERR .
#10 Grab A Bite Or A Drink At One Of Our Local Restaurants. There are many local restaurants dishing out the freshest seafood and chowder you could hope for! Download our Local Restaurant Guide to carry with you, or visit oregonsadventurecoast.com/dining to see all our local restaurants.
There is an adventure for everyone on Oregon’s Adventure Coast. Whether you are on the hunt for awe-inspiring landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, prime shopping, fine dining, special events, or an evening of entertainment, you will find it here. For more information, please contact the Coos Bay – North Bend Visitor & Convention Bureau .
