A sleepy town in the far southern reaches of Oregon, Bandon is snuggled between Coos Bay and Brookings. Much of the area surrounding the town is undeveloped, meaning solitude can be found along the quiet beaches, trails, and parks.
I recall the first time I visited Bandon on my mom’s recommendation. We grew up going to the coast, but with Bandon being a 4.5 hour drive from Portland, we seldom made it that far south. What a mistake that turned out to be. Bandon quickly turned into my favorite town at the Oregon coast, here’s why.
Best Things to Do in Bandon, Oregon
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Visiting Bandon, Oregon Coast
Enjoy the Sights at Bandon Beach
There’s no denying that Bandon Beach is the star of the show in this charming coastal town. Often considered one of the best beaches at the Oregon coast, the beach is marked by monolithic sea stacks and dramatic landscapes few can resist.
Less crowded than the beaches found on the northern tip of the coast, Bandon Beach is a joy to explore year-round. From fascinating tide pools to panoramic overlooks, the visit can be relaxing or adventurous as your heart desires.
Speaking of adventure, horseback riding and fat tire biking seem to be popular sports in the area. If you’re interested, check out Bandon Beach Riding Stables and Pineapple Express Fat Tire Rentals.
If you’re feeling sluggish (hey, we’ve all been there before), opt for the Beach Loop Drive. This 5-mile tour takes you to the most popular viewpoints along the coastline.
The drive starts at the Bandon Historical Society Museum and ends in Old Town Bandon, but not before passing through some iconic landmarks like Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint and Bandon State Natural Area. (I’ll cover these areas in more detail below.)
Visiting Bandon in the summer? Learn about Circles in the Sand
Anyone planning on visiting Bandon in the summer should know about Circles in the Sand. This interesting (and artsy) endeavor takes place from late April thru August.
Creative locals come together to create fascinating labyrinths in the sand for visitors to enjoy. As you can imagine, this is no easy feat and requires quite the time commitment! As such, it doesn’t take place every weekend (here’s the current schedule).
These labyrinths create a fun walking experience for visitors. Depending on the tide, they tend to be usable for 2 hours after completion.
Explore Old Town Bandon
Known for historic buildings and vibrant artistic community, visiting Bandon’s Old Town feels like stepping foot onto a movie set. The town couldn’t be more charming. From Victorian-style storefronts, with ornate facades and colorful awnings, to a variety of colorful restaurants and boutiques, exploring downtown can commandeer an entire afternoon.
You’ll notice that art plays a significant role in Bandon’s identity. The town is home to numerous art galleries displaying incredible works by local artists. It’s not uncommon to see artists at work in the town or at the beach, capturing the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
If you’re an art collector (or enthusiast) you might consider visiting the local art galleries as one of the best things to do in Bandon.
Visit Washed Ashore Gallery: Art to Save The Sea
One of the most unique things to do in Bandon is to swing by Washed Ashore: Art To Save The Sea Gallery. An unusual gem, this gallery is a random collection stunning sculptures created using trash collected from the sand.
Standing in front of a large sea turtle fashioned from bottle caps and plastic bags really puts into perspective how much waste clogs up our oceans. The artists use the waste in a way intended to inspire all of us to be more aware of the impact waste has on the ocean. Plus, the sculptures are true masterpieces.
Where to Eat in Bandon
When it comes to finding delectable dining options while visiting Bandon, Oregon, you’re spoiled for choice.
One undeniable gem is Tony’s Crab Shack, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying stunning ocean views. Their succulent Dungeness crab, creamy clam chowder, and melt-in-your-mouth fish and chips are unparalleled.
For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, Bonfire Mexican Grill offers up flavorful traditional fare like spicy tacos and gooey enchiladas. If you’re craving some comfort food in a casual setting, head over to Foley’s Irish Pub where their hearty Irish stew and innovative pub fare will leave your taste buds craving more.
Finally, no list of the best things to do in Bandon for foodies would be complete without mentioning Coastal Mist Fine Chocolates & Desserts. The patisserie boasts an array of mouthwatering desserts, from velvety truffles to decadent pastries that are a delicious post-dinner treat. Don’t sleep on the brownies (the best I’ve ever had!).
Visit Bullards Beach State Park
Visiting Bullards Beach State Park is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts in search of the best things to do in Bandon. This stunning state park offers long stretches of bright sandy beaches and mesmerizing ocean views.
Casual visitors can indulge in various recreational activities, including beachcombing, kite flying, and sunbathing. While the more adventurous among us might opt for the various hiking trail in the area that meander through lush forests and dunes.
One of the main highlights is the iconic Coquille River Lighthouse, a historic landmark that towers over the rugged landscape. Originally built in 1896 to guide boats through the perilous sandbars of the Coquille River, the lighthouse served as a necessary aid for many years until 1939, when an automated beacon was installed.
So, whether you’re looking to spend quality time with family, learn some history, or simply unwind amidst nature’s wonders, visiting Bullards Beach is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Bandon, Oregon.
You May Enjoy Reading: 11 Iconic Lighthouses at the Oregon Coast
Admire Face Rock State Park
A unique seastack resembling a face (if you look from the right angle), aptly named Face Rock State Park gives visitors great views of the sea stacks dotting Bandon’s breathtaking coastline. The namesake of the park, Face Rock, stands proud in the ocean surf just offshore.
It sits in good company with a smattering of other sea stacks jutting up from the waves alongside it. The iconic Wizard’s Hat stands tall and stout, tapering into a fine and crooked point. Take a gander and see how many of the sea stacks are aptly named.
Visit Cape Arago State Park
Due north of Bandon is a series of beaches that are perfect to explore if you want to see as much of the shore as possible. Between Whiskey Run Beach and Shore Acres, you’ll hit the Merchants, Agate, and Sacchi Beaches.
Merchants Beach lies within the Seven Devil’s Recreation Area and is great access point for miles of open shoreline. Merchants and Agate Beaches are pretty much one unified beach with two small ever-changing creeks weaving through them, while Sacchi lies on its own separated by a jumble of rocks.
You can access Sacchi beach by simply walking around the rocks at low tide (this beach is not accessible and can be dangerous at high tide!). The beach butts right up against the famous Cape Arago State Park, which is another must-see park in this area if you’ve got some time to kill while visiting Bandon.
Shore Acres State Park
Shore Acres State Park is a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde sort of place: at once wildly rugged natural coastline and meticulously curated garden full of exotic plants. The gardens are the last vestige of a timber baron’s grand estate. Visitors can roam the perfectly curated gardens year round, open daily from 8am to dusk.
As you explore the park’s well-maintained trails, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant gardens bursting with colorful roses, rhododendrons, and other tropical plants—a delightful surprise in an otherwise wild setting. Something’s always in bloom here, which is why paying a visiting is one of the best things to do in Bandon.
There’s also an option to explore more of the less human-influenced landscape here by taking a short trail through the coastal woods down to the hidden cove of Simpson Beach. The trail skirts the headlands, providing even more sensational views of the ocean below.
Good to know: Dogs are not allowed in the park, but the paths through the gardens are ADA accessible.
Whiskey Run Beach
Whiskey Run Beach is a sterling example of the Oregon coast at its finest, glowing with pristine white sands framed by jagged cliffs and monumental sea stacks. Easily accessible by a turn off from Highway 101, this beach is a no-fuss destination when you want to let the family loose for some unstructured playtime.
On top of being a generally peaceful area, the beach has a rich history, with remnants of an old whiskey distillery that once operated in the area. These historical remnants, along with the name of the beach, pay homage to its intriguing past (though I can’t promise you’ll find any actual whiskey stashed anywhere).
The combination of natural beauty and historical significance adds a layer of interest and charm to this coastal haven. Anyone visiting the area will quickly see why this is one of the best things to do in Bandon.
Hike the Sisters Rocks Trail
Hitting the trails while visiting Bandon will give you more insight into the natural splendor of this remote area. I suggest opting for the (easy) 1.5 mile Sisters Rocks trail.
The jaunt takes you through a meadow and out to a headland where you can get incredible views and the chance to explore some cool sea caves. Once you reach Big Sister you can look down into what is now the collapsed roof of a cavernous cave.
Scramble down the base of Big Sister and see the mouth of three caves at low tide. You’ll be able to view Middle Sister up close to your left and the smallest sister resting just offshore. Continue down the trail to a secluded sandy cove, the first of a few.
As you wander the area you’ll see plenty more sea stacks, sand bridges, and little tide pools tucked in the nooks and crannies of the broken cliffs. The short trail gives you a bigger bang for your buck than most coastal trail, which is why I consider hiking it one of the best things to do in Bandon.
Experience the Cranberry Festival
Each year in September (September 14-15, 2024) the Bandon Cranberry Festival recognizes local cranberry farming and gives visitors a chance to indulge in all things cranberry-related.
It’s one of the most popular things to do in Bandon in the summer. The festivities kick off with a grand parade featuring incredible floats adorned with cranberry-themed decorations.
As you stroll through the streets, you will find numerous stalls selling an array of cranberry-infused treats, such as cranberry pies, jams, and cranberry-flavored beverages. If you are feeling adventurous, you can participate in the cranberry eating contest or try your hand at making your own homemade cranberry sauce at one of the cooking demonstrations.
The festival also features live music performances showcasing local talent as well as a marketplace where vendors offer arts, crafts, and other local products. If you’re not in the area during September when the fest is happening, worry not! You can get a taste of this scrumptious little fruit by visiting Cranberry Sweets & More, a little shop open year round.
Visit the Bandon Marsh
The Bandon Marsh is a prime spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of migratory and resident birds frequenting the area. You can observe bald eagles soaring the thermals above and catch sight of colorful species such as great blue herons and red-winged blackbirds perched on the cattails.
Visitors might also spot river otters playing in the water or catch a glimpse of the elusive Roosevelt elk roaming the woods. The marsh also supports a diverse array of plant life, from delicate wildflowers to towering cedar and Sitka spruce trees.
One of the highlights of Bandon Marsh is the South Slough Interpretive Center, which serves as an educational hub for visitors. Here you can learn about the unique ecosystem of the marsh through interactive displays and informative presentations.
They can also participate in guided hikes and workshops, gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of wetlands and wildlife conservation. Whether you consider yourself a birder or not, visiting the Bandon March is one of the best things to do in Bandon so you won’t want to miss it.
Best Things to Do in Bandon, Oregon (Post Summary)
In sum, here’s a list of the best things to do in Bandon, Oregon.
- Relax at Bandon Beach
- Learn about Circles in the Sand
- Explore Old Town Bandon
- Visit Washed Ashore Gallery: Art to Save The Sea
- Coquille River Lighthouse & Bullards Beach
- Admire Face Rock State Park
- Hike the Sisters Rocks Trail
- Northern Beaches and Cape Arago State Park
- Shore Acres State Park
- Whiskey Run Beach
- Golden and Silver Falls
- Enjoy the Cranberry Festival
- Bandon Marsh
- Chocolate brownie from Coastal Mist Chocolates
- Visit Tony’s Crab Shack
More Time? Consider Hiking Golden and Silver Falls
I feel compelled to mention this natural area even though it’s one hour northeast of Bandon proper. Although it may be a little out of your way, what if I told you that, at 250 feet, these are the second and third largest waterfalls in the entire Oregon coast range (behind Munson Falls, north near Tillamook)?
The best part? And you don’t have to push through miles of tough hiking to get to these beauties. Three easy trails take visitors to each of these falls, all totaling only 3 miles. One trail leads to Silver Falls, another to Golden Falls, and the third leads you to both falls, but I suggest walking all three.
When you arrive, park at the day use area, go left to trek out to Silver Falls first. Less than 0.9 miles will take you through impossibly lush spruce, fir, and alder forest with Silver Creek gently winding beside you most of the way.
Silver Falls dramatically plunges 254 feet down a sandstone dome, inevitably spraying visitors with mist from its massive base. Needless to say, this hike is definitely one of the most adventurous things to do in Bandon, Oregon.
Visiting Bandon Map
Until next time,
Antonina
You left out the cheese factory and cranberry sweets. Those are 2 places you don’t want to miss!