With a population of just over 16,000, Coos Bay is also the largest city on the Oregon Coast.
Along with nearby North Bend and Charleston, Coos Bay is one of three neighboring towns that make up Oregon’s Adventure Coast. The bayside paradise is home to a wide range of outdoor activities, local charm, arts and culture.
Keep reading for a four-day itinerary to make the most of your time in Coos Bay.
Day 1: Discover Coos Bay
Use your first day to get a feel for what makes Coos Bay beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Start by taking a stroll along the Coos Bay Boardwalk. The half-mile stretch runs along the river and is dotted with placards detailing maritime and town history. Enjoy the lovely views of the boats on the river and get an up-close look at the now-retired Koos No. 2 tugboat.
Grab lunch at Fishermen’s Seafood Market right on the boardwalk. Fill up on fish tacos, clam chowder and fresh crab before heading out on your next adventure. Note: Fishermen’s Coos Bay Boardwalk location is open seasonally.
Steep yourself in Coos Bay history with a stop at the Coos Bay History Museum. The museum is a project of the Coos County Historical Society, which was founded in 1891 and is the second oldest of its kind in the state. The museum houses more than 50,000 objects and 250,000 images detailing the cultural history of the region. Check out both permanent and rotating exhibits, as well as events and programming throughout the year.
Get dinner and a drink at Waterfront Ale House. The bayside views and local brews from 7 Devils Brewing Co. can’t be beat. The restaurant also features decor, dishware and furniture all made by local artisans.
For your final stop of the evening, take a quarter-mile stroll up the river to Bahama Buds. Your friendly neighborhood dispensary is open until 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 p.m. Sunday, giving you plenty of time to browse and shop. Whether you’re in the mood for edibles, topicals or pre-rolls, you can trust our knowledgeable budtenders to guide you through our extensive cannabis selection.
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to rest your head, book a room at Coos Bay Manor. The four-floor manor was built in 1912 and now operates as a bed and breakfast.
Day 2: Adventure Awaits
You can’t plan a trip to the Adventure Coast without taking advantage of all the outdoor experiences.
Drive about 30 minutes north of Coos Bay to take in the country’s largest expanse of coastal sand dunes at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. The tallest dunes tower 500 feet above sea level. Hike along the four-and-a-half mine Oregon Dunes Loop Trail for a fully immersive experience. If you’re in the mood for a fast-paced adventure, you can rent an ATV or dune buggy to traverse the dunes.
If you prefer surf with your sand, head 20 minutes southwest of Coos Bay to Bastendorff Beach. Play in the water, walk along the shore and try to spot seals or sea lions! From Bastendorff Beach County Park, you can also enjoy a view of Cape Arago Lighthouse.
Coos Bay and the surrounding areas are a cyclist’s paradise. The Whiskey Run Mountain Biking Trail is a 30-mile system that takes you through the Coos County Forest between Coos Bay and Brandon.
Simpson Reef Overlook is the perfect place to catch a glimpse at local wildlife, including seals, sea lions and even gray whales in season. Or, head North to the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area for a glimpse of the majestic Roosevelt elk.
If you’re not too tuckered out, head back to town and take in an event at the historic Egyptian Theatre. Built in 1925, the colorful spaces house one of the only Wurlitzer Organs still in operation in the state.
Day 3: Back to Nature
The Adventure Coast is home to a number of state parks, and there’s something for everyone.
- Cape Arago State Park is a tidepooling dream.
- Shore Acres State Park has both stunning views and lush, curated gardens originally planted when the park was the estate home of lumber baron Louis Simpson.
- Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area is a gorgeous drive in-land and offers 2 hikes from 1 parking lot through dense forests, canyons with waterfalls waiting at each end.
If you’re looking for a truly relaxing way to close out your trip, book a forest bathing session with Mossy Lotus. You can opt for a full forest immersion, outdoor yoga or a meditation session in nature.
Day 4: Taste the Town
Snag a fresh-baked pastry and coffee from family-owned Empire Donuts before taking a leisurely stroll through Mingus Park.
When you’re ready to take in a feast for your eyes, head over to the Coos Art Museum, which houses contemporary fine artworks. The museum’s art deco-inspired building is a work of art in itself.
Choose from a variety of local flavors with lunch at the Front Street Food Truck Court.
Before heading out of town, don’t forget to indulge your sweet tooth with a pit stop at Cranberry Sweets for local fruit and chocolate candies made by hand in small batches since 1962. The flagship shop is in Brandon, but the factory store is in Coos Bay’s Empire District!
The Best Time to Visit Coos Bay
You really can’t go wrong. Choosing when to visit depends on what you want to do while you’re there.
Beach-goers or hikers may want to opt for the spring or summer months. Daily highs are typically above 64 degrees from June through early October. If you’re coming to the coast for a crabbing adventure, fall and winter are the best times to visit. Winter storms are also a site to behold.
No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, there are plenty of Coos Bay attractions and activities to choose from.