The Best Things to Do in Bandon, Oregon: A Comprehensive Guide

August 5, 2022

Categories: Bandon | Southern Oregon Coast

If you're looking for a fantastic Oregon Coast experience, look no further than Bandon! This charming town is home to some of the most beautiful scenery and exciting attractions on the entire Oregon Coast. From world-class golfing to incredible wildlife viewing, Bandon has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything that this beautiful town offers.

 

Best Tourist Spots to Visit in Bandon, Oregon

 

Coquille River Lighthouse: 

The Coquille River Lighthouse is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bandon. This beautiful lighthouse is located on a bluff overlooking the Coquille River and offers stunning views of the river and coastline. The lighthouse is open for tours from May to September, and it is worth taking the whole family for a visit to drink in the views.This lighthouse is a beautiful and historic landmark built in 1895 on the jetty. Located just south of town, the Coquille River Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Oregon. The views from the top of the lighthouse are simply stunning, and it's a great place to get some photos of the coastline. 

Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge: 

The Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful 900-acre nature preserve located just 3 miles north of Bandon. This refuge is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and elk. The sanctuary offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly bird watching, as it is the only remaining tidal marsh in the Coquille River estuary. Enjoy the trails there from bike or by foot year around, and don’t forget the camera! 

Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint:

The Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint is a beautiful overlook located just south of Bandon. This viewpoint offers stunning views of the coastline and the Coquille River estuary. It's a great place to go for a walk, and it's also a popular spot for whale watching. 

Old Town Bandon: 

The charming Old Town district is home to various historic buildings, including the City Hall and the Bandon Historical Society Museum. It is a great place to spend an afternoon – enjoy shops, art galleries, historic and cultural destinations, and incredible dining options, all within the Old Town district! 

Bullards Beach State Park: 

Bullards Beach State Park is a beautiful state park located just north of Bandon. This state park offers stunning views of the coastline, and it's a great place to go for a walk or bike ride. 

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort: 

The Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bandon. This world-class golf resort features four championship golf courses, and it's a great place to tee off on your Oregon Coast vacation. It is located north of town, and it's definitely worth a visit! 

Bullards Beach: 

Bullards Beach is a beautiful beach located just north of Bandon, near the Coquille River Lighthouse. This beach is a popular spot for fishing or crabbing, and it's a great place to check out the tidepools at low tide.

Kronenberg Park, Coquille Point, and Table Rock:

Kronenberg Park is a beautiful park with access to Coquille Point, offering opportunities for hiking and birdwatching! Perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic while surrounded by stunning ocean views.

Coquille Point is a beautiful point located just south of Bandon. This point offers stunning views of the coastline, and it's a great place to go for a walk or bike ride. It's also a popular spot for whale watching during the spring months! 

Table Rock is the beautiful flat topped rock formation seen offshore from these scenic areas south of Bandon.

Bandon State Natural Area:

This natural area is a must for any nature or photography lover. The Bandon State Natural Area has miles of coastline and forest to explore from its three main parking areas. Devils Kitchen is the most popular point of access - offering picnic tables and a restroom with just a short walk to beach access. 

From March 15 – September 15, some restrictions on beach use may apply as this area is critical habitat for an endangered species, the Western Snowy Plover. Dogs, drones, vehicles, and kites are a few of the things not allowed where the Snowy Plover nests – walking is acceptable so long as you stay near the waterline and away from the dry sand dunes. See the Oregon Fish and Wildlife, Oregon State Parks, or Suislaw National Forest websites for more information on how to help this species! 

Golfing in Bandon, Oregon 

If you're looking to tee off while you're in town, make sure to check out Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, which has been rated as one of the top 100 golf courses in the world. Bandon is well-known for its incredible golf courses - there are six of them! For those who want to get away from the green for a bit, the nearby Coquille River Lighthouse offers stunning views and an exciting history lesson.

Best Places to Eat in Bandon, Oregon

Alloro Wine Bar & Restaurant:
This wine bar is the perfect place to relax and enjoy award-winning Italian fare. They offer a variety of wines and a menu of small plates. This restaurant offers fresh local seafood when in season and house-made plates of pasta, steak, and more. And of course, the house-made desserts are not to be missed! The eclectic wine cellar and full bar make it the perfect place to relax at the end of a long day exploring the coast. 

Coastal Mist, Bandon
Coastal Mist is famous for its award-winning artisan chocolates and desserts, all hand-made from scratch. The owners trained in Belgium, learning to make authentic chocolate creations, along with offering delectable pastries, fresh breads, and gourmet sandwiches on their rotating menu. They sometimes sell out of certain items, so go early for the widest selection!

Seafood in Bandon, Oregon

If you're hoping to sample some of the local seafood, Bandon is the place to be. 

There are several excellent seafood restaurants in town, but Tony's Crab Shack is one of the most popular, conveniently located on the Bandon Boardwalk. They have fresh crab, shrimp, and fish that will tantalize your taste buds. And if you're looking for something a little more adventurous, why not try geoduck? It's a type of clam that is only found in the Pacific Northwest - and it's delicious!

If you're looking for the best seafood near Old Town, you'll want to head to Bandon Fish Market! The cod, calamari, and clams are all fried to perfection, and they offer the traditional clam chowder or fish & chips options as well! This is a great stop for lunch or dinner while out exploring the Old Town District.

Find your perfect Bandon beach getaway!

Bandon is a perfect scenic destination on the Oregon Coast with something for everyone. Whether you're looking to relax or to explore, you'll find plenty of great things to do try in this beautiful coastal town. Find a great selection of Bandon beach rentals and skip third-party service fees at Beachcombers NW. We have large group and pet friendly rental options, as well as romantic coastal getaways for the perfect staycation! Click on book direct and connect with our local experts for the best rates and the best vacation experience.