Coos Bay is a gorgeous beach town on the Southern Oregon Coast. It is officially known as the Bay Area of Oregon and Oregon's Adventure Coast. Here visitors can hike along the most scenic locations in South Oregon. Coos Bay has an array of activities for everyone. It is a laid-back vacation spot, a perfect beach town to take a weekend getaway along with the kids.

Coos Bay is community-centric, where one can meet some of the warmest people in the country; the locals here are helpful and welcoming. The community takes pride in its history, art, and culture.

UPDATE: 2023/09/05 15:40 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Stops To Make In Coos Bay!

This article has been updated with four new things to do while in Coos Bay, Oregon, as well as tips for visitors to the area. From expansive beaches to picturesque scenery to delicious bites, here is everything one can experience in this Oregon coastal gem!

Things To Do

Along with bucket loads of outdoor activities, the city also has an exciting food scene, with regular food-talking tours taking place around downtown. So pick those bags and drive along Oregon's southern coast to enjoy the best weather and sunsets.

1 Cranberry Sweets & More® Factory Store

One fun thing to do while in Coos Bay, Oregon, is to visit the town's famous treat store, Cranberry Sweets & More® Factory. This is where guests and residents of the area come to purchase house-made sweets from a family-owned business that has invented countless candies, cookies, chocolates, and other treats.

All are handmade in small batches in our small factory on the Oregon coast, using the finest ingredients available.

• Address: 1005 Newmark Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420
• Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (closes at 4 PM on Sunday)

2 Vintage 101 - Antique & Home Decor Marketplace

Another fun stop in town is Vintage 101 — Antique & Home Decor Marketplace, which boasts glassware, midcentury-modern furniture & decor, rocks, beads, crystals, militaria, records + CDs, antique tools, art, vintage clothing and jewelry, rustic pieces, collectibles, gourmet chocolate, souvenirs, and more.

This is yet another family-run business we recommend checking out while in Coos Bay, Oregon.

• Address: 270 S Broadway, Coos Bay, OR 97420
• Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM

3 Marshfield Sun Printing Museum

The next place to head in Coos Bay is the Marshfield Sun Printing Museum. Here, guests can visit the space devoted to newspaper printing, with historic equipment and local history exhibits.

This is a smaller venue in Coos Bay, with most visitors spending about an hour here. It's also the perfect spot to spend some time if you love history.

• Address: 1049 N Front St, Coos Bay, OR 97420
• Hours: Wednesday - Saturday from 1-4 PM

4 McCullough Memorial Bridge

Next, visitors to Coos Bay, Oregon, can drive over to the McCullough Memorial Bridge. Here is a cantilever bridge that spans the Coos Bay on U.S. Route 101 near North Bend, Oregon. Most people park near the bridge and walk around it, snapping photos.

Of course, it may be more sensible to drive across if you're short on time or wary of getting out of your vehicle. Either way, it's beautiful!

• Address: 93488 Kelso Rd, North Bend, OR 97459
• Hours: Open 24 hours

5 Explore The Cape Arago Highway

One of the best ways to explore Coos Bay is by self-drive. The beach town is a cozy space and is the best accessible via its road network. The Cape Arago Highway is an 11-mile road that navigates toward the clear blue ocean waters.

What's more interesting is that the highway connects Cape Arago State Park to Sunset Bay & Shore Acres. Visitors can spend an entire day driving across this highway and exploring each of these parks, which are filled with outdoor activities for the entire family.

• Price: Free
• Time: Half a day or more

6 Shore Acres State Park

Spring and summer are the best seasons to explore what's blooming at the Shore Acres State Park. The entire setting looks colorful and fresh, and the air is filled with delightful fragrances from the freshly bloomed flowers.

This park is around 12 miles from Coos Bay and is located atop the ocean cliff. The botanical display at the gardens remains a constant visitor attraction. From the Japanese garden to the American Rose garden, flowers of all colors and sizes grow here.

Visit the park during the holiday season and be taken aback by the gorgeous decorations and lighting spread across the gardens alongside the never-ending ocean views.

• Price: Free
• Time: 2–3 hours

7 Cape Arago State Park

Explore the Coves at the state park. Located at the southern end of the Cape Arago Highway, this state park offers a wide range of ocean-friendly activities. The park is divided into two zones, the North and the South zone.

While the South section is known for water activities, like swimming, fishing, and diving, the North section overlooks Shore Island, where one can spot sea lions and seals.

Visitors can also pack a picnic and drop by the State park and sit by one of the many tables and enjoy the gorgeous hues of the sun at sunset.

• Price: Free
• Time: Half day

8 Coos History Museum & Maritime Collection

This museum was established in 1891 by the Coos County Historical Society. The museum houses over 50,000 objects and uncountable images referring to the state's history and geography.

The first floor is where the permanent exhibits stand, and the second floor is where the museum holds rotational exhibits.

• Price: $7 for adults and $3 for children
• Time: 1–2 hours
• Address: 1210 N Front St, Coos Bay, OR 97420
• Hours: The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, and free entries are every second Saturday of the month.

9 Egyptian Theater

For a cultural holiday, how about learning and watching a live theater act at one of the oldest and only Egyptian theaters in the state? This is the last 770-seater, Egyptian Revival-style theater in the country.

There have been some external modern restorations, but upon entry, visitors will see artifacts like pharaohs and old Egyptian temple ornaments adorning the walls. They also hold comedy shows and live performances.

• Price: Differs according to the show
• Address: 229 S Broadway, Coos Bay, OR 97420
• Time: 2 hours
• Events: Egyptian Theater

10 Mingus Park

Situated right in the central district, in the downtown neighborhood, Mingus Park is a gorgeous green forest-like setting with plenty of options for outdoor activities. This park is over a century old and even has a small baseball field.

Right in the center of the park, visitors will find a red Japanese bridge over a tranquil lake. The park also has the scenic Choshi Gardens that bloom in different colors. There are several hiking trails across the park and picnic tables scattered throughout for the one who wishes to carry a packed lunch and relax beneath the green.

• Price: Free
• Time: 2–3 hours

11 Bastendorff Beach

This beach can easily be reached from the Coos Bay and the Cape Arago Highway. It is a small yet beautiful hidden beach that is located North of Sunset Bay. The drive only takes about 20 minutes from downtown Coos Bay to reach this quaint beach. There is a playground area for the kids, sports facilities, and picnic points.

• Price: Free
• Time: 2 hours

12 Coos Art Museum

This museum is housed in an old Art Deco post office building. The museum has over 600 permanent installations and several rotational works of art that promote the local thirst for art and architecture. They showcase art from famous international artists and several local pieces too.

One can also invest in learning some of the art by signing up for an art educational workshop. The museums also hold weekly yoga workshops and kids-friendly art activities.

• Price: $5 for adults and $3 for children
• Address: 235 Anderson Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420
• Time: 2 hours

13 Coos Bay Boardwalk

Stroll around the gorgeous broad walk of Coos Bay and soak in the sun with a drink and some snacks on the go. It is located at the end of Anderson Avenue and is stretched for over half a mile.

There are several weekly activities running by the walkway and a cozy fish market.

• Price: Free
• Time: 1 hour

14 Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

This is the best place in town to bring out the adventure lover from within. Grab an ATV or a dirt bike and explore the dunes of Oregon. This spot is popular for its 500-foot-tall dunes. Visitors can even opt for a hiking adventure and reach the city's coolest dunes across the bay.

There are several access points that can be explored here, like the Bluehill Campground, John Dellenback Trail, and the Umpqua Dunes.

Visitors can visit the Dunes' visitor center for more information and motor vehicle rental options. Camping is the best way to enjoy the Dunes completely.

• Price: Free
• Time: 2 hours

Related: 10 Unique Things To Do In Oregon

15 Best Time To Visit Coos Bay, Oregon

• Best Time To Visit: Summer or spring

Summers are the best time to visit Coos Bay, Oregon. The skies are clear, the sun is out and bright, the temperatures are comfortable to explore the city, and the stunning ocean views only add to more outdoor and water activities during this season.

Late June to the first week of October is considered the best season to vacation in Coos Bay.

Springtime is also a good time to explore Coos Bay. The crowds disperse for the season, and it's much less crowded than in the summer.

Related: 10 Charming Small Towns You'll Want To Book A Trip To In Oregon

Fishing is one of the most popular activities during springtime. Visitors can also indulge in kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. The weather is pleasant, with slightly cool winds.

16 Best Ways To Get Around Coos Bay

• Best Way Around: Renting a bike or vehicle

The best way to get around Coos Bay is by renting a bike or a car. The city is easily accessible and easy to explore. The closest airport to Coos Bay is North Bend Airport (OTH). Other nearby airports are in Medford and Eugene.

Related: Driving The Oregon Coast Is Worth It & These Stops Are Why

OTH is under four miles away from Coos Bay, and the beach town is easily accessible by road. Depending on where visitors are staying, it may be best to rent a car and drive around to explore the city end-to-end.

17 Where To Eat In Coos Bay

Breakfast: Stockpot Restaurant

This is a great breakfast (and lunch) spot in Coos Bay. Notably, Stockpot Restaurant serves big portions, has great fresh food, and isn't too expensive for morning or afternoon bites in town. They serve American cuisine, so nothing too fancy or out of the ordinary.

• Price: $
• Address: 63097 Barry St, Coos Bay, OR 97420

Lunch: Tokyo Bistro

For some modern-traditional Japanese food cravings, Tokyo Bistro is one place that absolutely cannot be missed. With an extensive menu focussing on local seafood with a twist of Japanese spices, and style of cooking, they use adventurous flavors, toppings, and spice combinations. They also have a small section of selected wines and beers.

• Price: $
• Address: 525 Newmark Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

Dinner: Abby's Legendary Pizza (Italian)

This is a Pacific Northwest food chain serving some of the best pizzas in the city. Their menu is extensive, and they offer several vegetarian and gluten-free options.

From giant round-table pizzas to creative toppings, the dishes are priced reasonably and are a great option for big groups.

• Price: $
• Address: 997 S 1st St, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

Drinks: Walt's Pourhouse

Walt's Pourhouse is a sports bar located in the logging and fishing community of Coos Bay, Oregon. The bar has 16 beers on tap, indoor and outside seating, and is rated well for customer service.

• Price: $
• Address: 1880 N 7th St, Coos Bay, OR 97420

18 Where To Stay In Coos Bay

Hunker down in Coos Bay at these area hotels.

Luxury: The Mill Casino Hotel

• Accommodation: The Mill Casino Hotel
• Address: 3201 Tremont Avenue, Coos Bay, OR 97459
• Price: Starts at $185
• Amenities: Indoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Shuttle service (free)

Luxury: Bay Point Landing

• Accommodation: Bay Point Landing
• Address: 92443 Cape Arago Highway, Coos Bay, OR 97420
• Price: Starts at $130
• Amenities: Indoor pool, Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Business center, Parking, Pets are allowed on request

Mid-Tier: Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay

• Accommodation: Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay
• Address: 1313 North Bayshore Drive, Coos Bay, OR 97420
• Price: Starts at $100
• Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Free parking, Free airport shuttle

Mid-Tier: Best Western Holiday Hotel

• Accommodation: Best Western Holiday Hotel
• Address: 411 North Bayshore Drive, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States
• Price: Starts at $150
• Amenities: parking, on-site restaurant and café, business center, meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, vending machine, pet-friendly, swimming pool, fitness center, Jacuzzi, spa, and sauna.

Budget: Global Inn

• Accommodation: Global Inn
• Address: 1001 N Bayshore Dr, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States
• Price: Starts at $80
• Amenities: Microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, outdoor furniture, on-site restaurant, laundry services, parking, Wi-Fi, business center, banquet, and car and bike rentals.

Budget: Itty Bitty Inn

• Accommodation: Itty Bitty Inn
• Address: 1504 Sherman Ave, North Bend, OR 97459
• Price: Starts at $69
• Amenities: Cabin accommodations, record players and vintage game consoles for a fee, loaner bikes, and storage, crabbing expeditions (fee)

19 Tips For Visiting Coos Bay, Oregon

For those coming to Coos Bay, there are some things to remember. First, this town is small, meaning there won't be things open 24 hours. Most businesses in town close by nightfall and may reduce hours during slower times.

Coos Bay can also become very chilly in the fall and winter. This is something to be wary of, especially if people are prone to getting cold. The water isn't usually swim-friendly because of the colder temperatures and current, so that is a big one too.

Guests of the area should also get a car, rather than rely on public transport.

20 How To Spend A Perfect Day In Coos Bay, Oregon

Coos Bay is one artistic city with plenty of things to do. Ideally, a 2-day itinerary would be enough to explore the city and its surroundings, but for the ones who are short on time, these are the things visitors can cover in one day in Coos Bay, Oregon.

Start off by grabbing some breakfast downtown and heading to the Boardwalk. Next, head to the Coos Art Museum and the History Museum.

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Coastal Towns In Oregon

Spend over an hour at each of these spots and learn about the city's beautiful backstory, geography, and artistic routes. Then, grab some lunch and head to Sunset Bay State Park or Mingus Park. Both these parks have beautiful picnic options and are equally beautiful to explore for those Instagram-worthy pictures.

Further ahead, head to the Cape Arago State Park and explore the coves or enjoy a classic swimming or fishing experience. Go even further by exploring the Oregon coast beyond Coos Bay (or save that adventure for another trip!).