9 FUN Things to Do Around Coos Bay, Oregon

Coos Bay might not get as much attention as some of its Oregon Coast neighbors, but this working port town is full of charm, wild coastline, and outdoor escapes.

If you’re strolling downtown, chasing waterfalls, or cruising the dunes, Coos Bay makes a great base for exploring the southern coast. Here’s a solid mix of what we like to do in and around Coos Bay when we’re road tripping the coast!

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1. Stroll Through Downtown Coos Bay

Downtown Coos Bay has that gritty-but-cool coastal energy: murals of ships and Coca-Cola signs, a few vintage storefronts, and a working harbor just steps away.

It’s a compact area but fun to walk around—especially if you’re into photo ops with character.

We caught a great view of a ship mural across from some industrial buildings and loved the low-key vibe.

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2. Walk the Coos Bay Boardwalk

Right at the edge of downtown, the Coos Bay Boardwalk stretches along the marina and makes a great spot to wander.

You’ll see boats bobbing in the harbor, train tracks crossing nearby, and cyclists cruising past on the riverside path.

This is one of those “grab a coffee and go for a stroll” kind of spots. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local event or market set up here too.

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3. Stop by the Oregon Coast Historical Railway

A fun, free (donation-based) stop just outside of the main drag, the Oregon Coast Historical Railway has old trains, historic locomotives, and a restored caboose.

It’s mostly outdoors and totally self-guided, so it’s an easy detour if you’re exploring Coos Bay. If you’ve got rail fans in your group, you’ll want to check opening hours and poke around.

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4. Explore the Cape Arago Highway Trio

Just southwest of Coos Bay, three state parks line the coast—and they’re all worth a visit. You can hit all three in one afternoon:

• Sunset Bay State Park: A gentle beach cove perfect for tidepooling, beginner kayaking, or a beach picnic. Calm, sheltered, and great for families.
• Shore Acres State Park: Known for its epic wave action and cliffside viewpoints. Bonus: there’s also a formal garden tucked into the park, with blooming roses and a greenhouse.
• Cape Arago State Park: Rugged coastal cliffs, sea lion viewpoints, and plenty of trails to explore. You might need binoculars, but the wildlife is there.

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5. Visit a Couple of Museums

Sitting right on the waterfront, the Coos History Museum is surprisingly modern and well-designed. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on the area’s logging industry, maritime past, and tribal heritage.

Art lovers should stop into the Coos Art Museum, housed in a historic post office building downtown. The exhibits rotate regularly and focus on local and regional artists.

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6. Take a Day Trip to Bandon Beach

About 30 minutes south, Bandon offers some of the most stunning sea stack formations on the Oregon Coast.

The beaches here are wild and photogenic, with massive rocks jutting out of the surf and tidepools scattered everywhere.

Combine that with a cute downtown strip, and you’ve got a perfect half-day escape from Coos Bay.

READ MORE: 9 Cool Adventures Around Bandon Beach, Oregon

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7. Hike to Golden and Silver Falls

Head inland for a quick break from the coast, and you’ll find Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area.

Each waterfall has a short, scenic hike under 1.5 miles round-trip, with forested trails and moss-covered trees. It’s a peaceful, less-visited spot where you can hear nothing but water and wind through the trees.

READ MORE: 9 TOP Oregon Coast Waterfalls to Chase

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8. Explore the Oregon Dunes & OHV Areas

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is just north of Coos Bay and stretches for miles.

You can hike the dunes, take photos that feel straight out of a desert dream—or rent an OHV and go full throttle on the sand.

Either way, it’s a totally unique landscape and a must-see when you’re on this part of the coast.

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9. Relax at William M. Tugman State Park

A great option if you’re looking for a calmer slice of the outdoors. Located near the dunes, William M. Tugman State Park offers lake access, shaded trails, and quieter camping than some of the more popular state parks.

Paddle on the lake, spot wildlife, or just post up for a picnic with forest and water views.

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Where To Stay in Coos Bay

Here are the most recommended hotels and stays in the area:

Final Thoughts on Coos Bay

Whether you’re into trains, tidepools, coastal hikes, or dune rides, Coos Bay is an underrated launchpad for exploring Southern Oregon’s wild side.

And if you’ve got a free day, head to Bandon—you’ll thank us later!

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