It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful coastline than Oregon’s. With more than 360 miles of stunning beaches, jaw-dropping overlooks and inspiring natural beauty, our coast is something to behold. While every little town along the 101 is special, there’s one that we think makes the best beach day you’ve ever had. Gas up the car and head to Bandon!
The little town of Bandon sits in the southern part of the Oregon coast, between Coos Bay and Port Orford. Once known as Bandon-By-The-Sea, this charming little town is home to just 3,000 or so residents.
Steve Walser/flickr
The town is situated at the confluence of the Coquille River and the Pacific. The Coquille River Light is no longer active, but you can walk right down to see it up close, and it’s incredibly charming.
BriarCraft/flickr
The beach here just begs to be explored. Take a long stroll, poke around the tide pools, and enjoy the fresh air and ocean breeze.
Bandon Oregon/Facebook
It’s so picturesque that you’ll want to spend some time capturing the perfect shot.
Bandon Oregon/Facebook
Old Town Bandon is a charming little area that’s full of shops, galleries, bookstores, and more. This part of town once sat on wooden boardwalks constructed over the Coquille River, but it was completely destroyed by a fire in 1936. It’s been fully restored, and now it’s the perfect place to hang out for an afternoon.
Jasperdo/flickr
Check out Harry the Fish — a unique sculpture that was created completely from trash that washed up on the beach.
Harold/flickr
Take a stroll on the boardwalk to see some incredible pieces of outdoor art.
Jim B/Tripadvisor
You’ll love these whimsical sculptures.
CoyoteIsland/Tripadvisor
Spend some time on the docks, gazing at the sailboats and dreaming of which one you’d like to own someday.
Kirt Edblom/flickr
Stop by Bandon Coffee Cafe for a cup of joe and some fresh-baked treats.
Bandon Coffee Cafe/Facebook
The coffee is fresh and hot, and the home-baked pies, cookies, and cake will have you coming back for more.
Bandon Coffee Cafe/Facebook
You can spend hours wandering through the art galleries in Bandon. They’re full of incredible paintings, sculptures, pottery and more, created by local Oregon artists.
Shawnsart/Tripadvisor
Bandon is the place for fresh crab, and you’ll want to grab some lunch at Tony’s Crab Shack.
almyt/Tripadvisor
You can even rent a crab pot and catch your own crabs right from the dock. Tony’s will cook ’em up for you!
Makelifefun/Tripadvisor
For dinner with a view, dine at Edgewaters.
Jose D Colon/Google
You’ll enjoy delicious seafood, pasta, and steaks while viewing panoramic views of the Coquille River.
Edgewaters Bandon/Facebook
A day spent at Bandon-By-The-Sea is a wonderful day indeed.
Gary Gamso/flickr
Bandon is just one of many charming beach towns in Oregon. Do you have a different favorite?
Steve Walser/flickr
BriarCraft/flickr
Bandon Oregon/Facebook
Jasperdo/flickr
Harold/flickr
Jim B/Tripadvisor
CoyoteIsland/Tripadvisor
Kirt Edblom/flickr
Bandon Coffee Cafe/Facebook
Shawnsart/Tripadvisor
almyt/Tripadvisor
Makelifefun/Tripadvisor
Jose D Colon/Google
Edgewaters Bandon/Facebook
Gary Gamso/flickr
Looking for a great day trip farther north on the coast? You should visit this incredible Oregon beach that transforms with the seasons.
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