Bandon

Bandon is a charming tiny hamlet on the Coquille River's bay. Its Old Town quarter has been gentrified into a gorgeous harborside setting with pleasant walking, window shopping, and sweets sampling. South of town, and not visible from the roadway, are kilometers of sandy beaches interrupted by outcroppings of tall rocks, which are home to a plethora of chattering marine birds. Stone ledges rise out of the surf to give cover for seals, sea lions, and other marine creatures in tidal pools.

For the greatest beach access spots, head west to Beach Loop Drive. There is excellent whale watching in the spring, and there is marine life to be seen all year. Table Rock is home to sea lions and shorebirds at Coquille Point. Face Rock State Park Wayside has a trail that runs across the headland to sandier beaches near Face Rock. After you've worked up an appetite, go to Tony's Crab Shack for some deliciously fresh seafood.