Where the Coquille River feeds into the Pacific Ocean in southwestern Oregon, you’ll find the city of Bandon, a once-isolated fishing and logging village that has evolved into a lively secluded destination for surfers, storm watchers, and nature lovers. The Coquille River Light watches over the city from the north side of the river and signals to ships during the region’s thrilling and intense wind storms, while the gentle rush of waves crashing against the docks provides pleasant background accompaniment throughout the historic old town.

The cultural influences of Bandon-by-the-Sea are vivid throughout the city, but especially in its architecture, where Bandon rental homes are a blend of old-world Ireland, 19th-century New England cottages, and contemporary Pacific Northwest cabins. A wander through Old Town Bandon will bring you past public sculptures and shops that offer locally crafted oils, fudge, and leather goods. The setting sun provides ambient lighting for many dining options, from fish tacos and burgers to fine dining featuring freshly caught salmon and crab.

Bandon sits just north of the Brookings Banana Belt, a meteorological phenomenon that gives the city a mild Mediterranean climate unlike anything else in the Pacific Northwest. The phenomenon is a major draw for storm watchers, because this mix of warm and cool air causes dramatic and exciting wind storms during the wintertime. The city comes alive in spring, with colorful flowers blooming in the fields, and restaurants and shops extending their hours in anticipation of major events like the Blessing of the Fleet, honoring local fishers, veterans, and their families.

In the summer, people tend to spend most of their time outside, and the waves are fantastic for surfing. The weather is also optimal for wandering nearby nature trails. As the leaves turn to breathtaking shades of orange, red, and yellow in the fall, the city showcases its most-celebrated agricultural crop with the Cranberry Festival.

Bandon Historical Society Museum

Housed in the former city hall, the Bandon Historical Society Museum stages exhibitions that illustrate Bandon’s past, including baskets and beadwork from the Coquille peoples, who first lived in this region thousands of years ago; the region’s logging, seafaring, and cheesemaking history; and the forest fire that destroyed much of the village in 1936.

Coquille Point Trail

This trail offers beautiful views of Bandon’s beaches and wildlife, as well as the opportunity to learn about the people and animals who have called this region home. The paved path follows the cliffs, with a series of offshore rocks providing shelter for puffins, cormorants, and harbor seals.

Coquille River Light

Two miles north of Bandon is Bullards Beach State Park, with 4.5 miles of protected sandy beach and trails for hikers and mountain bikers. The 47-foot-tall Coquille River Light, first illuminated in 1896, sits on the river’s north bank. Between May and October, weather permitting, you can go up to the lantern room and learn about the story of this lighthouse from enthusiastic, informed volunteers.