To all those laid-back travelers who love a low-key hike with a picnic as your reward, this 7-day trip of wow oceanscapes, easy trails, local galleries, lighthouses—and yes, fish tacos and craft beer—is just for you. Oregon’s Southern Coast stretches 140 miles and every inch of it is accessible to the public. Here’s our guide to a leisurely week of wandering.
DAY 1: REEDSPORT & LAKESIDE
Before exploring the coastline, head 3 miles up the Umpqua River Scenic Byway to spy roaming elk at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area. Don’t miss the Umpqua River Lighthouse and its distinctive red-and-white prism, then relax in Lakeside with a picnic at William M. Tugman State Park. If you time it right, it’s golden hour at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, with easy access at the John Dellenback Trail. This is a must-see!
DAYS 2 – 3: NORTH BEND / COOS BAY
In North Bend, wander Horsfall Beach then rest on the benches at the scenic platform. Coos Bay’s bustling, historic downtown has something for every traveler—a fun boardwalk, a great maritime museum, famous fish tacos at Sharkebite’s Cafe, and frosty beers at the new 7 Devils Waterfront Alehouse. You’ll want to spend a good part of a day taking in the Cape Arago Loop. Start from Shore Acres State Park with its showy blooms; from the back of the park, head north to view a moonscape of rock ledges and Cape Arago Lighthouse beyond. Heading south from the gardens, hike along the path to secret beaches and end up at Simpson Reef Overlook. You’ll know you’ve arrived by the rumble of sea lions barking from the reef below.
DAY 4: BANDON
Soak up views at Coquille Point and Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint. Then visit Old Town Bandon, with boutiques and endless treats to sample at bountiful confectionaries, plus Coastal Mist Chocolates (and don’t miss tasting Vampire Slayer cheddar at Face Rock Creamery). Before sunset, grab a cocktail and watch the golfers come in at the world-famous Bandon Dunes Golf Resort.
DAY 5: PORT ORFORD
Thirty minutes south of Bandon, climb into the working lantern room at Cape Blanco Lighthouse, then catch the short trail to Cape Blanco State Park. See the bogs and taste the berries at Peters’ Cranberries (check for opening hours), just one fascinating stop on the Wild Rivers Coast Food Trail. Check out Battle Rock Wayside Park, named for the historic battle of 1851. See fishing boats lowered to sea in one of only two dolly docks in the country, then find a souvenir at a dozen art galleries in town.
DAY 6: GOLD BEACH
Choose either a relaxing or action-packed ride up the wild and scenic Rogue River on Jerry’s Rogue Jets, or explore in comfort with South Coast Tours, which shuttles guests to local breweries, beaches and other attractions. Search for sea anemones at low tide at Meyers Beach.
DAY 7: BROOKINGS
Between Gold Beach and Brookings lies a take-your-breath-away, 12-mile stretch: the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Stop at every view point, including Arch Rock Picnic Area, which boasts fairy tale-like islands topped with evergreens. Just North of Brookings, don’t miss Cape Ferrelo viewpoint and trails. Browse the shops on Brookings Main Street and recap your week’s adventures at Zola’s on the Water.
STAY :
- Coos Bay: The Mill Casino Hotel & RV Park – overlooking the bay
- Port Orford: Wildspring Guest Habitat – magical cabins in the forest
- Brookings: Beachfront Inn – great views at pet-friendly oceanfront inn
EAT:
- Coos Bay: Front Street Provisioners – for wood-fired pizza
- Bandon: Edgewaters – waterfront bistro with great local catch
- Port Orford: Crazy Norwegian – best fish tacos & chowder
DON’T MISS :
- Coos Bay: Annual Oregon Coast Music Festival, July 16-30
- Gold Beach: Curry County Fair, July 27-30
SEE MORE SOUTHERN OREGON COAST TRIP IDEAS AT: http://travelsouthernorcoast.com
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