The Five Best Things to Do Near Coos Bay, Oregon

The area surrounding Coos Bay is full of adventures on land, sea, and sand. In this article, we’ll cover the five best things to do in our area and help you get started on each of them. From rentals to charters to some good old-fashioned local advice, we’re here to get you started on your Coos Bay adventures. 


The Best Hikes Near Coos Bay, Oregon 

Hiking is one of the easiest ways to submerge yourself in the beauty of Coos Bay’s natural landscape. Here are five of our favorite trails in the area, each with its own unique aspects and viewpoints. 


Sunset Bay to Cape Arago

This trail is ideal for those looking to revel in Oregon’s coastal beauty. This moderately challenging route will take you along the shoreline, offering panoramic ocean views and characteristic rock formations. 


South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve

Wind your way through the wetlands of Oregon at the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve trail. This trail is great for a casual stroll, birding, running, or hiking with little kids. 


John Dellenback Trail 

The John Dellenback Trail will take you from the sand to the sea on a 5.5-mile loop. As you emerge from the grassy hills and onto the beach, the official trail disappears into the sand. Keep an eye out for the blue-tipped poles to find your way back when you’re ready to head home. 


Hall Lake Loop 

Despite being a short, sweet, and simple trail, Hall Lake Loop is not to be missed. Here you’ll find a massive sand dune hugging the edge of the lake, giving you and your family easy access to play, slide, and roll in the sand. The juxtaposition of the barren sand colliding with the lush forest makes this spot perfect for pictures.


Mingus Park Footpath 

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience close to town, we recommend Mingus Park Footpath. This beautiful Japanese garden in the heart of Coos Bay features a leisurely 0.6-mile walking path that is perfect for relaxing strolls or quick jogs. 


Biking in Coos Bay 

With Oregon’s temperate weather, cyclists and mountain bikers alike can pedal in the area all year round on nearly every type of terrain from smooth pavement to worn single-track to sandy beaches. If you’re eager to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest on two wheels, consider these biking options: 


Oregon Coast Bike Route 

The Oregon Coast Bike Route runs for 370 miles along the Oregon coast, connecting state parks, seaside communities, and unforgettable viewpoints. The North Bend to Bandon segment of the OCBR runs right through Coos Bay. 


Whiskey Run Mountain Bike Trail System 

Whiskey Run is truly one of a kind. Located in an active logging forest, this trail system offers riders of all skill levels sweeping views of the forest running towards the sea. Whiskey Run allows you to wind and fly through the forest, featuring a good mix of flow and cross-country style trails. 


Fat Biking Along the Coast

If you combine a sense of determination with a fat bike, you can go anywhere. Fat bikes feature extremely wide tires that allow you to pedal smoothly on sandy beaches that standard bikes simply can’t go. Riding a fat bike along the border of where sand meets the sea is a distinctly invigorating experience. 


Bike Rental Shops 

Unless you’re an avid cyclist, odds are you’re not traveling with your favorite bike in tow. That doesn’t mean that cycling adventures in Coos Bay are closed to you. Here are a few of our favorite local outfitters that have all the rental gear you need to get out and ride. 


Whiskey Run Rentals 

Whiskey Run Rentals is a completely mobile bike rental company that will meet you at the trailhead with the gear that you need. No pickups, no hassle, just riding. 


South Coast Bicycles

South Coast Bicycles is located in nearby Bandon, about 10 minutes south of Whisky Run itself. Here you’ll be able to rent both full suspension and hardtail mountain bikes, gravel bikes, fat bikes, and even e-bikes. 


Fishing in Coos Bay, Oregon 

Coos Bay’s waters teem with a rich diversity of fish species, creating a haven for anglers. Here’s everything you need to know about fishing in Coos Bay: 


Species of Fish in Coos Bay

  • Chinook Salmon
  • Striped bass 
  • Halibut 
  • Coho Salmon 
  • Largemouth bass 
  • Lingcod 
  • Rainbow trout 
  • Albacore 
  • Salmon 
  • Sturgeon 
  • Steelhead 
  • Pacific halibut 
  • Bluegill 
  • Cutthroat trout 
  • Yellow perch 
  • Mountain whitefish 
  • Rockfish
  • Shad 
  • Walleye
  • Crappie 
  • And more! 


Oregon Fishing License 

Before you cast your line, make sure you have the proper fishing license and the prize you’re after is in season. 


Take a look at all the fishing requirements for our area


Fishing Charters 

Take your fishing experience to the next level with a guided excursion offered by a reputable charter boat company. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned angler, these charters offer you the opportunity to reel in the catch of a lifetime. 


Sharky’s Charters

Sharky’s Charters is home to several seasoned captains ready to guide you to the best fishing spots in the Oregon Pacific. 


PacificPond Charters 

The team at PacificPond Charters is dedicated to providing you with a fun, safe environment to fish off the Oregon coast. 


Crabbing in Coos Bay, Oregon 

Coos Bay is recognized as one of the best places in Oregon to go crabbing. Coos Bay’s temperate climate is what makes crabbing year-round possible, which means that no matter when you’re visiting, you’ll have a chance to try it. 


Coos Bay Bait & Tackle Shops 

Set yourself up for success by visiting Coos Bay’s local bait and tackle shops, ready to provide you with everything you need to get started on your crabbing adventure. Be sure to pick up crab rings, pots, clam guns or shovels before you head out. 


Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

When you think of the Pacific Northwest, sand dunes aren’t what come to mind. That’s part of what makes the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area so unique. Just like the contrast of desolate sands and vibrant forest you’ll find at Hall Lake Loop, the Dunes stick out from the greens and blues of the surrounding area. 


ATV Adventures 

Perhaps the most popular activity on the Dunes is riding ATVs up and down the steep sandy slopes. Pick up rentals from Dune Bugs ATV Rentals or Sunbuggy Fun Rentals and set off on your own. 


Hike, Bike, Fish, and More 

What sets the Oregon Dunes apart is the ability to indulge in all the best activities Coos Bay has to offer. Whether hiking, biking, fishing, dune buggying, or anything else, the dunes serve as a versatile playground for nature lovers seeking an immersive coastal experience. 


Local Events in Coos Bay, Oregon 

Coos Bay is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. It’s also a small, welcoming, tight-knit community that hosts a variety of fun and exciting events throughout the year. From lively festivals to charming markets, local events are a great way to experience the culture and soul of this community. 


Take a look at this
events calendar to find out what’s going on during your next visit! 


Start at Coos Bay Manor 

Start and end your days exploring the Oregon coast at Coos Bay Manor. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Coos Bay, our Manor has everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay you’ll cherish for years to come. 


Our amenities are designed to complement the natural wonders waiting for you just outside our doors. Our convenient location means that when you book with us, it doesn’t matter what you have planned, you’re already close to the action. Book your stay and elevate your coastal experience today!



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