Gorgeous beaches and great dining take center stage at this cozy South Coast town.
Situated just south of where the Coquille River meets the Southern Oregon Coast, Bandon is celebrated in equal measure for its beaches, food, and ample opportunities to explore the outdoors. While dubbed the cranberry capital of Oregon, Bandon’s big draw is its seafood, and there are plenty of spots in and around town to dine on fresh fish, crab, and oysters. The snug city is also a great jumping-off point for the wildlife-rich Bandon State Natural Area and the Coquille River Lighthouse at Bullards Beach State Park.
South Coast
Bandon is smack in the middle of the South Coast, arguably the prettiest stretch of the Oregon Coast. Here you'll find massive sand dunes, viewpoints, and lots of opportunities for crabbing.
Coquille River
Stretching for 36 miles inland from Bandon, the Coquille River is best known for clamming and crabbing. It’s also a great area for wildlife viewing, particularly at the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, just outside of town.
Encompassing a large swathe of coastal southern Oregon and Northern California, this coniferous woodland offers miles of hiking, boating, and wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Bandon is a year-round destination, though the weather is most favorable from June through September. The biggest annual event in town is the Cranberry Festival, which takes place just after Labor Day and honors area cranberry farming with all kinds of entertainment, including a cranberry-eating contest. Winter festivities include an annual tree-lighting ceremony and a Holiday Light Parade, while the Bandon Crab Festival—held in February—celebrates crabbing with live entertainment and a sumptuous crab dinner.