Coos Bay and Bandon

Beach boardwalks are often associated with southern California, but Oregon has a few of its own. You’ll find one of the best ones in Coos Bay. Stop here to stroll down the wooden-plank boardwalk, where you’ll find informative displays on the history of the region, a fish market and some picnic tables to sit and have some lunch or take a rest. The pier also provides easy access to downtown Coos Bay’s many shops and boutiques. Park at the Visitor Information Center, and cross the street to get to the boardwalk.

After your boardwalk adventure, you're liable to want a bite to eat. So It Goes Coffeehouse is chock full of quirk and character. Inside, you'll find used books and music, as well as a coffee menu that features all the regular drinks as well as some innovative in-house creations. Best of all, their savory breakfast menu has reliable favorites such as quiche, avocado toast, and biscuits and gravy.

This museum is dedicated to Oregon's south coast maritime way of life, both past and present. Plan a visit and you’ll get to see a unique collection of artifacts, stories, pictures and documents that come together to form an image of regional identity. Tickets are $3 for children and $7 for adults. Be aware -- the Coos History Museum & Maritime Collection is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Sandy beaches and awe-inspiring sea cliffs make this an excellent place for a beach walk. You can camp at this state park, but the day use area also makes it easy for people passing through to fish, swim and otherwise enjoy the beach. If you want to extend your time here, pick from one of the many hiking trails that run through the park.

Bandon has been a cheese-making hub since the 1800s. Face Rock Creamery is an important part of that aspect of Bandon’s regional DNA. Stop into their shop to sample cheeses that have won numerous awards from the American Cheese Society. This is a great spot for an early dinner, as you can have a number of paninis made with fresh cheese. A word to the wise: don’t miss out on the house-made macaroni and cheese.

After your dinner, set out for an evening stroll on Bandon Beach. This area is well known for its beautiful rock formations that look especially nice at sunset. Use this time to acquaint yourself with the area before making your way back to your hotel for check-in.

This inn near the mouth of the Coquille River is quite close to the lighthouse and the beach areas. With newly updated interior furnishings, you'll find this stay comfortable and convenient. From here, you'll be able to see the river, the ocean, and Bandon's historic district.