Myrtle Point Travel Guide

Explore the beauty and richness of Myrtle Point with our comprehensive travel guide, which includes must-visit attractions, local culture, safety and health tips, and more.


Introduction to Myrtle Point

Myrtle Point is a charming city located in Southern Oregon Coast, known for its rich cultural attractions and breathtaking natural landscapes. Surrounded by the Coquille River and set amidst rolling hills, Myrtle Point offers a unique blend of history, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Myrtle Point has something in store for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we have compiled a list of the best things to see and do in Myrtle Point, along with tips on where to stay, what to buy, and how to stay safe during your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Myrtle Point

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Myrtle Point has a rich cultural heritage, with several museums and historical places that are worth visiting.

Coos County Logging Museum

The Coos County Logging Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of logging in the region. Located in a historic lumber mill, the museum features exhibits on logging equipment, tools, and techniques, as well as artifacts and photographs from the era.

Myrtle Creek Botanical Gardens & Nursery

The Myrtle Creek Botanical Gardens & Nursery is a beautiful botanical garden that features a vast collection of plants, including rare and exotic species. The garden offers guided tours, educational programs, and a gift shop selling handmade items made from local materials.

Myrtle Point Pioneer Museum

The Myrtle Point Pioneer Museum is a small but charming museum that showcases the history of the town through exhibits and artifacts dating back to the 19th century. The museum is housed in the restored City Hall building, which is itself a historic landmark.

Natural Attractions of Myrtle Point: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Myrtle Point is surrounded by natural beauty and offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventure and scenic exploration. Here are some of the best natural attractions in the area.

Bullards Beach State Park

Bullards Beach State Park is a beautiful state park located about 30 minutes from Myrtle Point. The park features miles of sandy beaches, dunes, and salt marshes, along with plenty of opportunities for fishing, camping, and hiking.

Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

The Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is a protected wetland area that is home to a variety of migratory birds and other wildlife species. Visitors can explore the area via a network of trails, boardwalks, and observation decks.

South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve

The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is a pristine natural area that boasts an extensive network of trails through forests, wetlands, and tidal channels. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Myrtle Point

Myrtle Point and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes in the area.

Myrtle Point to Powers Trail

The Myrtle Point to Powers Trail is a 16-mile trail that follows the Coquille River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail is ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Coos Mountain Trail

The Coos Mountain Trail is a challenging yet rewarding trail that leads to the summit of Coos Mountain. The 7-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it a popular destination for hikers and bikers alike.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Trail

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Trail is a 40-mile trail that traverses the beautiful Oregon Dunes, one of the largest coastal sand dune systems in the world. The trail is ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Best Things to Do in Myrtle Point: Activities and Tours

Myrtle Point offers plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained throughout their trip. Here are some of the best things to do in Myrtle Point.

Coquille River Lighthouse Tour

The Coquille River Lighthouse Tour is a popular boat tour that takes visitors on a journey up the Coquille River to the historic Coquille River Lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscapes while learning about the history of the lighthouse.

Cranberry Farm Tour

Myrtle Point is known for its cranberry farms, and visitors can take a tour of one of the local farms to learn about the cultivation and harvesting process. Visitors can also sample delicious cranberry products made on the farm, such as jams, jellies, and sauces.

South Coast Winery Tour

The South Coast Winery Tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the best wineries in the region, including the award-winning Seven Feathers Winery. Visitors can enjoy tastings of locally produced wines while learning about the history and production methods of each winery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Myrtle Point

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Myrtle Point, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the area.

Day 1: Visit Coos County Logging Museum and take a boat tour of the Coquille River Day 2: Go hiking or biking on the Myrtle Point to Powers Trail Day 3: Explore the Myrtle Creek Botanical Gardens & Nursery and take a cranberry farm tour Day 4: Visit the Myrtle Point Pioneer Museum and go kayaking in the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Day 5: Take a winery tour and enjoy a wine tasting Day 6: Visit the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and go beachcombing at Bullards Beach State Park Day 7: Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the town and its local shops and restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Myrtle Point

Myrtle Point has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local specialties and fresh ingredients to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the area.

Must-Try Dishes

Cranberry Sauce

Myrtle Point is known for its cranberry farms, and cranberry sauce is a popular side dish in the area. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and spices, cranberry sauce adds a delicious touch of sweetness to any meal.

Clam Chowder

Clam chowder is a staple dish in many coastal towns, and Myrtle Point is no exception. Made with fresh clams, potatoes, and cream, clam chowder is a hearty and satisfying soup that is perfect for chilly weather.

Steak and Seafood

Myrtle Point is located close to the coast and offers some of the freshest seafood in the region. Local restaurants often serve a variety of seafood dishes, including crab legs, salmon, and shrimp. Beef also tends to be a local favorite, often served as a steak with all the fixings.

Local Beverages

Craft Beer

Myrtle Point has a burgeoning craft beer scene, with several microbreweries producing unique and delicious brews. Visitors can enjoy a cold beer while taking in the local scenery or grab a six-pack to bring home as a souvenir.

Wine

Myrtle Point is located in the Umpqua Valley AVA, an area known for its exceptional wines. Visitors can enjoy a glass of locally produced wine at one of the many wineries in the area or purchase a bottle to take home.

Where to Stay in Myrtle Point: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Myrtle Point offers plenty of lodging options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area.

Myrtle Creek Bed & Breakfast Inn

The Myrtle Creek Bed & Breakfast Inn offers a cozy and comfortable stay in a historic home that dates back to 1892. The inn features four well-appointed rooms, each with its own private bath, and a hearty homemade breakfast every morning.

Sleepy Hollow RV Park & Campground

The Sleepy Hollow RV Park & Campground offers a peaceful and scenic camping experience in the heart of Myrtle Point. The campground features spacious RV sites, tent sites, and cabins, along with modern amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, and a game room.

Bridge Street Inn

The Bridge Street Inn is a charming guesthouse located in the heart of Myrtle Point. The inn features five well-appointed rooms, each with its own unique decor and ambiance, and offers a complimentary breakfast each morning.

What to Buy in Myrtle Point: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Myrtle Point offers plenty of souvenirs and local products to take home as a lasting memory of your trip. Here are some of the best things to buy in Myrtle Point.

Cranberry Products

Myrtle Point is known for its cranberry farms, and visitors can purchase a variety of cranberry products, including jams, jellies, sauces, and dried cranberries. These products are perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to any recipe or enjoying as a snack.

Handmade Crafts

Myrtle Point has a thriving arts and crafts scene, with plenty of local artisans producing handmade items from local materials. Visitors can purchase a variety of handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, textiles, and woodwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Myrtle Point

Myrtle Point has a rich history and a unique culture that is worth exploring during your visit. Here are some of the local customs and traditions in the area.

Myrtle Point Festival of the Bells

The Myrtle Point Festival of the Bells is an annual celebration held every July to honor the town’s historic bells. The festival features live music, food vendors, a parade, and more.

Coquille Indian Tribe

The Coquille Indian Tribe is an indigenous tribe that has lived in the area for over 10,000 years. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s history and culture at the Coquille Indian Tribe Cultural Center, which features exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.

Best Time to Visit Myrtle Point

The best time to visit Myrtle Point is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is mild and sunny and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, Myrtle Point has something to offer visitors year-round, from fall foliage to winter recreation to spring wildflowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Myrtle Point

Do:

  • Do explore the beautiful natural landscapes of Myrtle Point, including the Coquille River, the Oregon Dunes, and Bullards Beach State Park.
  • Do try the local specialties, such as cranberry sauce, clam chowder, and locally produced wines and beers.
  • Do take a tour of the local cranberry farms or wineries to learn about the production process and sample some delicious products.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash behind when exploring the natural areas and parks in Myrtle Point.
  • Don’t disturb the wildlife or their natural habitats when visiting the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge or the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate outdoor gear and clothing when exploring Myrtle Point, as the weather can be unpredictable at times.

Safety and Health

Myrtle Point is a safe and healthy place to visit, but it’s still important to take precautions and stay informed during your trip. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind.

Safety in Myrtle Point

  • Always lock your car and secure your belongings when traveling.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Follow posted signs and warnings when hiking or exploring natural areas to avoid potential hazards.

Health in Myrtle Point

  • Make sure to bring any necessary medications or medical supplies with you on your trip.
  • Stay hydrated and protected from the sun when spending time outdoors.
  • Be aware of local health risks, such as ticks and mosquitoes, and take appropriate precautions.

Getting to Myrtle Point: Transportation Options and Logistics

Myrtle Point is located in Southern Oregon Coast and is accessible by several modes of transportation. Here are some of the best ways to get to Myrtle Point.

Airports Near Myrtle Point

  • Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH) – about 30 miles from Myrtle Point

Bus Stations Near Myrtle Point

  • Coos Bay/North Bend Visitor Center – about 30 miles from Myrtle Point

Other Options

  • Rental Cars – several major rental car agencies are available at the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport and in Coos Bay/North Bend
  • Taxis and Rideshare Services – available through several local companies

How to Get Around in Myrtle Point

Myrtle Point is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by car. However, to get to some of the more remote natural areas and attractions, visitors may want to consider renting a bike or a car.

Where to Go Next from Myrtle Point: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Myrtle Point is located near several other popular destinations in Southern Oregon Coast, making it a great starting point for an extended trip in the area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider.

Bandon

Bandon is a charming coastal town located about 30 miles south of Myrtle Point. The town is known for its picturesque lighthouse, beautiful beaches, and quaint shops and restaurants.

Coos Bay

Coos Bay is a bustling port town located about 30 miles north of Myrtle Point. The town is home to several museums, historical sites, and cultural attractions, as well as plenty of shopping and dining options.

Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks are located about two hours south of Myrtle Point and offer some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the region. Visitors can explore the beautiful redwood forests, hike scenic trails, and witness amazing wildlife.

Conclusion

Myrtle Point is a hidden gem in Southern Oregon Coast, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s museums and historical sites, hiking through the nearby hills and forests, or simply relaxing by the river, Myrtle Point has something in store for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip to Myrtle Point and get ready to experience the beauty and richness of this charming town.