Things To Do
in Coos Bay
Coos Bay is a coastal city located in Oregon, United States. It is known for its picturesque natural beauty, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The city is home to a bustling fishing industry and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
Coos Bay also has a rich cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and theater productions for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Shore Acres State Park. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and coastal views while taking a leisurely walk.
Head to the Coos Bay Boardwalk for lunch and some shopping at local boutiques. Spend the afternoon exploring the maritime history at the Coos Historical and Maritime Museum.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the bay.
Begin your morning with a hike at nearby Cape Arago State Park. Discover breathtaking coastal scenery and potential wildlife sightings.
Picnic at Sunset Bay State Park, enjoying the natural beauty around you. Bring your beach gear and relax on the sandy shore afterwards.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the beach. Consider gathering around a fire pit to enjoy s'mores and stories.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
- A small-town atmosphere with a friendly community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Oregon.
- Rich in history and local culture, with various festivals and events throughout the year.
- Proximity to natural attractions such as the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Access to healthcare facilities may be limited.
- Potential for rainy and cloudy weather, especially during the winter months.
- Less entertainment and dining options than larger cities.
- Transportation options may be limited, requiring a car for most activities.
Best Activities in Coos Bay
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic coastal trails, lush forests, and stunning ocean views that Cape Arago State Park has to offer. The park features several miles of trails suitable for all hiking levels.
Experience the beauty of Coos Bay from the water by kayaking. Rent a kayak or join a guided tour to explore the bay's natural wildlife and serene waterways.
Enjoy fishing in the rich waters of South Slough, known for its diverse aquatic life. Anglers can catch a variety of species while surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
Take a ride along the scenic Oregon Coast Bike Route, which passes through Coos Bay. The route offers breathtaking views of the coastline and access to various parks and beaches.
Stroll along Bastendorff Beach and explore tide pools, hunt for seashells, and enjoy beachcombing. This family-friendly beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean.
Visit the Coos Bay Marsh for excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife, including birds and marine animals. This area is great for birdwatching and enjoying peaceful surroundings.
Catch some waves at Whiskey Run Beach, a popular spot for surfers of all skill levels. The beach offers great surf conditions and stunning coastal views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Coos Bay with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Coos Bay
Visit one of these nice places.
Shore Acres State Park offers breathtaking views of the rugged Oregon coastline, with opportunities for stunning photos of waves crashing against cliffs and panoramic ocean vistas.
Simpson Reef is known for its abundance of wildlife, providing opportunities to photograph seals, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds against the backdrop of the coastal landscape.
Cape Arago State Park features picturesque viewpoints overlooking Coos Bay and the surrounding ocean, offering ideal locations for capturing sunrise or sunset photos and coastal scenery.
Food in Coos Bay
Coos Bay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local delicacy, often served steamed or as crab cakes, showcasing the sweet and tender meat of the Dungeness crab. Best enjoyed at The High Tide Cafe or Fisherman's Grotto.
Must-Try!
Freshly shucked local oysters served with a zesty cocktail sauce and a splash of spirits, delivering a unique taste of the Pacific. Recommended at Portside Restaurant.
Creamy and rich clam chowder made with locally harvested clams, a staple at many coastal eateries. Don't miss the version at Sharkbites Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Coos Bay better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market featuring fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted goods. Open every Wednesday and Saturday at the waterfront boardwalk.
A vibrant gathering of food trucks offering diverse cuisines such as Asian fusion, gourmet burgers, and vegan options. Look out for this event at the Mingus Park.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents of Coos Bay value friendliness and politeness. A simple smile or greeting can go a long way in making positive connections with locals.
Coos Bay is known for its beautiful natural surroundings. It is important to respect local wildlife and natural areas by following established guidelines for outdoor activities.
Engaging with and supporting local businesses is appreciated in Coos Bay. Whether it’s dining at a local restaurant or visiting a nearby shop, this shows respect for the community's economic health.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Coos Bay with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Coos Bay
Ensure a smooth experience
In Coos Bay, as in much of the United States, tipping is customary in the service industry. It is generally expected to tip around 15-20% for good service at restaurants. For other services, such as haircuts or taxi rides, a tip of 10-20% is also common. However, tipping practices can vary based on the establishment and the level of service received.
In Coos Bay, various payment methods are accepted, including cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses, especially restaurants, retail shops, and service providers, accept major credit and debit cards. Contactless payments via mobile wallets, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are increasingly popular. It's advisable to check if smaller establishments accept card payments, as some may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Coos Bay as the weather starts to warm up, and the wildflowers begin to bloom. It's also a good time for birdwatching as migratory birds return to the area.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Coos Bay, with warm and dry weather making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and beachcombing.
Fall is another pleasant time to visit Coos Bay, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's also a good time for crabbing and clamming in the bay area.
Winter in Coos Bay can be rainy and chilly, but it's a great time for storm watching along the coast. It's also a quieter time for visiting attractions with fewer crowds.
Coos Bay at Night
Hiking in Coos Bay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering a variety of hiking trails with beautiful views of the coastline, tide pools, and wildlife.
Features forested trails with opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing, located near Coos Bay.
Renowned for its stunning gardens and coastal views, it offers trails that lead to picturesque lookout points.
A trail through the enchanting Myrtlewood trees, featuring different terrain and a peaceful hiking experience.
While primarily a golf resort, it offers breathtaking walking trails with stunning ocean views and dunes.
Has a variety of trails through estuarine environments, perfect for hiking and observing unique wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Coos Bay by plane.
Located approximately 5 miles from Coos Bay, this small regional airport provides limited commercial flights.
About 70 miles northeast of Coos Bay, this airport offers more frequent flights to major cities.
Located around 115 miles southeast of Coos Bay, this airport serves as a regional hub with several national and international flights.
Approximately 115 miles east of Coos Bay, this airport provides access to various domestic flights.
Located about 180 miles north of Coos Bay, this is the largest international airport in Oregon, offering extensive flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Coos Bay, typically consisting of individuals who identify as White or Caucasian.
A significant demographic group that includes people of Hispanic or Latino origin, which can encompass various nationalities.
Indigenous individuals or groups who are recognized as being native to the region.
Individuals who identify as African American or Black, forming a smaller but important demographic in the community.
A demographic group that includes individuals of Asian descent, comprising a diverse array of cultural backgrounds.
Individuals who identify with more than one racial, ethnic, or cultural background.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Coos Bay, attracting both youth and adult players. Local high schools and community teams often compete in regional leagues.
Basketball is widely played in Coos Bay, with many recreational leagues and school teams participating in competitions throughout the year.
Soccer has gained popularity, especially among youth, with various leagues available for different age groups and skill levels.
Baseball is a beloved pastime in Coos Bay, with many teams ranging from little league to adult leagues engaging in local games during the season.
With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Coos Bay offers excellent surfing opportunities, attracting surfers from the area and beyond.
Fishing is not just a sport but a way of life for many in Coos Bay, with local rivers and the ocean providing ample fishing opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coos Bay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Coos Bay caters well to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Notable choices include the vegan sushi at Sumin's and the vegetarian pho at Ming's Kitchen.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free pizzas at Blaze Pizza or indulge in the gluten-free baked goods at Flour Power Bakery, known for its delectable assortment of treats.