Bandon Travel Guide

Discover Bandon, Oregon, with our comprehensive travel guide. From must-see attractions to local cuisine, activities, and cultural customs, plan your next vacation today.


Introduction to Bandon

Bandon may be a small town located in Southern Oregon Coast, but it packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage. The town is renowned for its oceanfront vistas, rugged coastline, and rock formations that dot the sea. Bandon also boasts a rich history with several museums and historical sites worth exploring. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, witness some breathtaking views, delve into local culture and customs, or indulge in local gastronomy, Bandon has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in this coastal paradise.

List of Places to Visit in Bandon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bandon offers several museums and historical attractions that give visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.

  • Bandon Historical Society Museum - Explore Bandon’s history and culture at the Bandon Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s Native American heritage, the logging and fishing industries, and how the town was destroyed by a fire in 1936 and rebuilt.
  • Coquille River Lighthouse - Perched at the entrance to the Coquille River, the Coquille River Lighthouse is a prime example of 19th-century architecture and a designated Oregon State Historic Site.
  • Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge - Established in 1983, the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is home to over 200 species of birds and an ideal spot for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.

Natural Attractions of Bandon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bandon’s rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and stunning rock formations make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

  • Bandon Beaches - Bandon’s beaches are ideal for picnicking, sunbathing, beachcombing, and surfing. Be sure to visit Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, which features several rock formations rising from the water, and Bullards Beach State Park, which boasts three miles of sandy beaches and dunes.
  • Bandon Dunes Golf Resort - One of the best golf resorts in the country, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort offers five public golf courses, each with its own distinct landscape and terrain.
  • West Coast Game Park Safari - For a unique experience, visit West Coast Game Park Safari, where visitors can feed and pet over 500 animals, including big cats, bears, and exotic birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bandon

Bandon offers several hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the town’s natural beauty up close.

  • Bullards Beach State Park Trail - This serene trail stretches for over four miles and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Coquille River, and the forest.
  • Whiskey Run Mountain Bike Trail - A popular trail with bikers, Whiskey Run Mountain Bike Trail offers a challenging route with several twists, turns, and jumps.
  • Coastal Trail - Spanning over five miles, the Coastal Trail follows the coast and offers magnificent views of Bandon’s rocky shoreline.

Best Things to Do in Bandon: Activities and Tours

Bandon offers several activities and tours that allow visitors to explore the town’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

  • Bandon Cranberry Festival - Held annually in September, the Bandon Cranberry Festival celebrates the town’s cranberry industry with live music, food, and other festivities.
  • Bandon Farmers’ Market - Held every Friday from June through September, the Bandon Farmers’ Market is a great place to discover the region’s local produce and crafts.
  • Coquille River Jetty Fishing - Anglers and fishing enthusiasts can head to Coquille River Jetty and try their luck at hooking salmon, crab, and other fish species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bandon

Day Activity
Day 1 Take a walking tour of downtown Bandon and visit the Coquille River Lighthouse.
Day 2 Hike the Coastal Trail and enjoy the breathtaking views of Bandon’s coastline.
Day 3 Spend the day exploring Bandon’s beaches and sand dunes.
Day 4 Visit the Bandon Historical Society Museum and learn about the town’s logging and fishing industries.
Day 5 Take a golf lesson at the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort and enjoy a round of golf.
Day 6 Enjoy an afternoon of birdwatching and wildlife spotting at the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.
Day 7 Explore West Coast Game Park Safari and get up close and personal with exotic animals.

Food and Drink Scene of Bandon

Must-Try Dishes

Bandon’s food scene features fresh seafood, farm-to-table produce, and other local specialties.

  • Crab Cakes - Made with fresh Dungeness crab meat, Bandon’s crab cakes are a must-try dish for seafood lovers.
  • Cranberry Scones - Bandon is renowned for its cranberry production, and the town’s bakeries and coffee shops offer delicious cranberry scones and pastries.
  • Huckleberry Ice Cream - Made with fresh huckleberries, which grow abundantly in the region, huckleberry ice cream is a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Local Beverages

Bandon’s craft breweries and artisanal wineries offer a wide range of beverages, from hoppy IPAs to fruity wines.

  • Bandon Brewing Company - Located in downtown Bandon, Bandon Brewing Company offers a range of craft beers that reflect the town’s seaside character.
  • Misty Meadows Winery - Set in a scenic location overlooking the Coquille River Valley, Misty Meadows Winery produces award-winning wines made from locally grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Bandon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bandon offers several lodging options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts.

  • Bandon Inn - A popular choice among visitors, Bandon Inn offers comfortable rooms, on-site dining, and stunning ocean views.
  • The Inn at Face Rock - Located near the Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, The Inn at Face Rock offers spacious rooms, a spa, and easy access to the beach.
  • Yurt Village at Bullards Beach - For a unique lodging experience, try staying in one of the yurts at Bullards Beach, which offer all the essentials amid a serene natural setting.

What to Buy in Bandon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bandon offers several souvenir and gift shops that sell locally made crafts, artwork, and other products.

  • Bandon Mercantile Company - This historic building, which was once a mercantile store, now houses several gift shops that sell locally made crafts, jewelry, and other products.
  • The Toy Room - A family-owned toy store, The Toy Room offers a wide selection of games, puzzles, and toys for all ages.
  • Cranberry Sweets - This candy store specializes in cranberry treats, including chocolate-covered cranberries and cranberry popcorn.

Local Culture and Customs of Bandon

Bandon’s culture reflects its rich history and natural environment. Locals are proud of their heritage and enjoy sharing it with visitors.

  • Oregon Beach Bill - Bandon’s beaches are public, thanks to the Oregon Beach Bill, which was enacted in 1967. This means that visitors can access any beach in Oregon, including Bandon’s beaches, without any restrictions.
  • Bandon Dunes Golf Resort - Golfing is a popular pastime in Bandon, and the town’s residents take pride in having one of the best golf resorts in the country.
  • Harvest Festivals - Bandon is known for its cranberry production, and every year, the town hosts several harvest festivals to celebrate this crop.

Best Time to Visit Bandon

Summer months (June - September) are the best time to visit Bandon, as the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are plentiful. However, be prepared for crowds, especially in July and August. If you want to avoid the crowds and still enjoy pleasant weather, consider visiting Bandon in spring (April - May) or fall (October - November).

Do’s and Don’ts of Bandon

Do:

  • Respect the environment and wildlife. Bandon’s beaches and dunes are a fragile ecosystem, so avoid leaving trash behind or disturbing the natural habitat.
  • Check the tide tables before heading out to the beach. The tide can rise and fall rapidly, and visitors may get trapped in secluded areas or tidepools.
  • Explore the town’s cultural heritage. Bandon offers several museums, historical sites, and cultural attractions that give visitors insight into the town’s past and present.

Don’t:

  • Feed or approach wildlife. Bandon is home to several species of wildlife, including seals and sea lions. Avoid feeding or approaching these animals, as it can be dangerous for both them and you.
  • Hike or climb on rock formations. Bandon’s rock formations are beautiful but can also be dangerous. Stay on marked trails and avoid climbing or jumping on rocks.
  • Ignore beach safety signs and warnings. Bandon’s beaches can be treacherous, with strong currents and large waves. Pay attention to beach safety signs and warnings and avoid swimming in dangerous areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bandon

Bandon is a safe town, but visitors should take precautions when exploring the outdoors and water.

  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear when hiking or biking.
  • Stay on marked trails and avoid venturing off the beaten path.
  • Pay attention to beach safety signs and warnings and avoid swimming in dangerous areas.

Health in Bandon

Bandon has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, for visitors who need medical attention. Visitors should also take precautions against the sun and mosquitoes, especially during summer months.

Getting to Bandon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bandon can be accessed by car, bus, or plane. The nearest airports are Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH) in North Bend, which is approximately 30 miles from Bandon, and Eugene Airport (EUG), which is approximately 125 miles from Bandon. Local buses are available from both airports to Bandon, as well as from several other nearby cities.

Airports Near Bandon

  • Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH)
  • Eugene Airport (EUG)

Bus Stations Near Bandon

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Coos Bay (approximately 25 miles from Bandon)
  • South West Point Bus Station - North Bend (approximately 30 miles from Bandon)

Other Options

  • Rental Car - Rental cars are available at both airports and several local rental car agencies in Bandon.
  • Biking - Bandon is a bike-friendly town, and several rental shops offer bikes for rent.

How to Get Around in Bandon

Bandon is a small town, and visitors can easily explore it on foot or bike. Local taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk or bike.

Where to Go Next from Bandon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bandon is an ideal base for exploring the Oregon Coast and surrounding regions. Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Oregon Caves National Monument (approximately 120 miles from Bandon)
  • Crater Lake National Park (approximately 150 miles from Bandon)
  • Redwood National and State Parks (approximately 100 miles from Bandon)

Conclusion

Bandon, Oregon, is a town that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, witness breathtaking views, delve into local culture and customs, or indulge in local gastronomy, Bandon has something for everyone. Plan a trip to Bandon today, and discover all that this coastal paradise has to offer.

View from Face Rock viewpoint View from Face Rock viewpoint Coquille River Lighthouse in Bullards Beach State Park Coquille River Lighthouse in Bullards Beach State Park