The Largest Bay On The Oregon Coast Is A Charming Destination With Gorgeous Views

The majestic Oregon coast is dotted with beach towns and rugged, open shorelines for over 360 miles. Tucked into the jagged coastline roughly two-thirds of the way toward California, the Coos Bay estuary jettisons inward along "Oregon's Adventure Coast," forming the coast's largest bay and deepwater port between San Francisco and the Puget Sound. Despite being overshadowed by neighboring towns on the Oregon coast, Coos Bay not only has the largest city on the coast, but it's also minutes from outdoor activities and is full of low-key vibes and stunning views. 

Prior to settlers moving west, the Coos Bay area was inhabited for hundreds of years by several Native American tribes, with its name stemming from the Indigenous Hanis and Milluk languages, meaning "south." Early on, the small cities of Marshfield, Empire, and Eastside (now all part of the City of Coos Bay), along with North Bend and Charleston, were a shipping hub for lumber and coal in the region.  More recently, Coos Bay was the hometown of legendary runner Steve Prefontaine, who was Nike's first sponsored athlete.

If you're flying into Coos Bay, your most convenient option is the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH), served by United. The airport is just a stone's throw from the city of Coos Bay and several state parks and beaches. Despite being a small airport with limited flights, major rental car agencies operate on the airport grounds around United's flight schedules. The closest mid-size airport is in Eugene (EUG), approximately two hours away by car, with Portland being roughly four hours away. Though the drive is longer, you'll have beautiful views along the picturesque Highway 101, one of the most breathtaking on the West Coast.

Whether you go wild by exploring outdoor trails or watching whales and chasing critters in tide pools at nearby state parks, you'll have gorgeous views of some of Mother Nature's best handiwork and local wildlife on the coast. Take the short but scenic Route 540, the Cape Arago Highway, out of town, and you'll have three incredibly scenic state parks to choose from in less than 15 miles. Paddle the day away at Sunset Bay, stroll through splendid botanical gardens at Shore Acres, or watch wildlife (in particular seals and sea lions) at Cape Arago. Travelers will need to purchase a daily parking pass online for $10 (residents) or $12 (non-residents). You can dodge the fee by soaking up the sights in and between each park on a unique bike tour across the stunning Oregon coast.

If you want to dip your toes — or your OHV tires — in the sand, the southern region of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area hugs the coast from Winchester Bay to just north of Coos Bay. In one of the world's largest stretches of golden coastal dunes, you'll find islands of green. Trees, wetlands, and rare plant life thrive in the 31,500-acre swathe of sand, along with coastal strawberries in summer and wild mushrooms in the fall. Forage for up to a gallon of chanterelles, matsutake, lobster mushrooms, or boletes without a permit, though be careful identifying them. Along the coast, you'll likely see bird life, including bald eagles and ospreys, soaring overhead during summer. You may also see parts of the beach closed off to protect the rare western snowy plover nesting grounds, apart from the winter months.

While not as popular as "the ultimate Oregon coast experience," Coos Bay and its neighboring towns have plenty to offer all travelers. In 2025, Wheel the World recognized Oregon and its Adventure Coast as "accessibility verified," and within the area, local businesses offer assistance to travelers of all abilities. Within the 120-acre John Topits Park, visitors will find wheelchair-friendly viewing platforms looking out, as well as kayak launches to splash in the water. Afterward, head to accessible 7 Devils Waterfront Alehouse, along Oregon's Wild Rivers Coast Food Trail. 

While winter is largely part of the off-season for much of the Oregon coast, it's prime time to watch king tides roll in or scavenge for shellfish, including succulent Dungeness crab and multiple varieties of clams. Visit Davey Jones Locker or Monkey Business Market, both in nearby Charleston, to rent any necessary equipment you'll need for some family fun at high or low tide. Then, head down to the docks, where you can haul in and clean your catch of the day. Limits are generally more than you can eat (12 male Dungeness crabs); just be sure to have a shellfish license for everyone over 13 years of age (available online from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife for $19). If you aren't sure, ask locals and they'll point you in the right direction. For a uniquely Oregon stay, head up the road to North Bend, home to the highly rated and quirky "geek-chic" Itty Bitty Inn.