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Coos Bay, Oregon
Coos Bay is a city in Coos County, Oregon, situated where the Coos River meets Coos Bay on the Pacific Ocean. It shares the bay with the neighboring city of North Bend, and together the two are often regarded as a single community known as Coos Bay–North Bend or Oregon’s Bay Area. Coos Bay, the largest city on the Oregon Coast, is celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes—including the Oregon Dunes—and its rich history as a timber and shipping center.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Coos Bay covers a total area of 15.90 square miles, consisting of 10.60 square miles of land and 5.30 square miles of water. The city’s terrain is notably hilly, with elevations ranging from sea level to more than 150 m. Within the city limits are several bodies of water, including Upper Pony Creek Reservoir, Lake Merritt, Empire Lakes, and numerous streams.
The Marshfield
The Marshfield District serves as the historic downtown and business center of Coos Bay. Originally known as Old Marshfield, this area and its surrounding neighborhoods formed the core of the city before the annexation of Empire and Eastside in the 20th century. Today, the district is home to numerous buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Carnegie Library, Chandler Hotel, Egyptian Theatre, and Tioga Hotel. Along the waterfront, the Marshfield District features a scenic boardwalk with a city dock, bicycle trail, and pavilions showcasing historical and interpretive displays.
What is Coos Bay, Oregon, Famous for
Coos Bay, Oregon, is renowned for the Oregon Dunes, a vast stretch of dunes, and its role as a major port city and center for outdoor recreation. The region offers beaches, bays, and nearby state parks, along with fresh seafood, a vibrant historic district, and cultural attractions such as the Egyptian Theatre. Visitors are drawn to the city for its scenic beauty and the natural charm of the South Coast.
Oregon Dunes
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is truly one of a kind. Home to one of the world’s largest stretches of temperate coastal sand dunes, it offers striking, mist-draped views where dunes, forests, and ocean meet in rare and breathtaking harmony. This landscape shelters a remarkable variety of plants and animals, some found almost nowhere else. Recognizing its extraordinary value, Congress designated 31,500 acres of the Siuslaw National Forest as a National Recreation Area in 1972.
Whether you seek adventure or solitude, the Oregon Dunes has something for everyone. Explore tree islands, open dunes, wetlands, and beaches while enjoying activities such as Off-Highway Vehicle riding, hiking, paddling, birding, wildlife viewing, camping, picnicking, or simply playing in the sand.
Coastal Environment
Situated along “Oregon’s Adventure Coast,” the city boasts stunning beaches, bays, and nearby state parks such as Sunset Bay, Shore Acres, and Cape Arago, all celebrated for their rich marine life and scenic beauty.
Economic & Industrial Significance – Port of Coos Bay
The Port of Coos Bay is the largest deep-draft port between San Francisco and Puget Sound and has long been a vital hub for shipping forest products.
Also read- A Mysterious Hole in Basaltic shoreline-Thor’s Well, Oregon
Romantic things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon
For a romantic experience in Coos Bay, couples can enjoy a sunset stroll along the Coos Bay Boardwalk, explore the formal gardens and breathtaking ocean views at Shore Acres State Park, or take a leisurely walk through Mingus Park. Discover local culture at the Coos Art Museum and Coos History Museum, savor fresh coastal cuisine and craft brews, or share an adventurous outing at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
Shore Acres State Park
Explore this stunning state park, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and sweeping ocean views—an ideal setting for a romantic walk or even a vow renewal.
Coos Bay Boardwalk
In the heart of downtown Coos Bay lies the Coos Bay Boardwalk, a charming spot perfect for a stroll or a quick bite to eat. This short stretch of wooden pier features a fish market, interpretive displays, and sweeping views of the bay that gave the town its name. Exhibits highlight the area’s rich history, particularly the lumber industry that shaped its growth, and include the historic Koos #2 tugboat once used on the bay. Picnic tables make it an inviting place to relax, while nearby downtown streets offer antique and boutique shops, cozy cafés, restaurants, and the historic Egyptian Theatre—home to Oregon’s last original Wurlitzer pipe organ.
Mingus Park
Mingus Park offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Coos Bay. At its center is a large pond, bordered by an arboretum to the northwest, the city’s municipal pool to the northeast, playgrounds to the south, and an oriental flower garden to the west. To the southeast, you’ll also find a skate park, tennis courts, and a baseball field. The park is especially popular with walkers, who enjoy the paved trail circling the pond and winding through the serene Choshi Gardens. Families gather at the playgrounds and picnic areas, while aquatic birds bring the pond to life year-round—often greeted by visitors sharing seeds or breadcrumbs.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Discover the striking beauty of the dunes together, whether enjoying a romantic walk or an exhilarating outdoor adventure.
Sunset Bay State Park
Nestled along one of the most scenic stretches of the Oregon Coast, Sunset Bay State Park is known for its sandy beaches sheltered by dramatic sea cliffs. Just a short walk from the shore, the campground offers tent and RV sites along with cozy yurts for a more comfortable stay. Day-use and picnic areas line the bay, providing easy access to beachcombing, fishing, swimming, and boating.
Best hotels in Coos Bay, Oregon
Here are some of the best hotels in Coos Bay, Oregon, catering to various preferences and budgets:
Best Western Holiday Hotel
Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay
Edgewater Inn Coos Bay
How To Reach Coos Bay, Oregon
To get to Coos Bay, Oregon, the most common approach is to fly into Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH) in nearby North Bend, then drive or take a taxi to Coos Bay, or alternatively, drive along US-101 (the Pacific Coast Highway). Other options include checking for train or bus services to the area.
By Air
Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH): This is the primary commercial airport serving Coos Bay, situated in North Bend, which borders the city. From the airport, it’s a short distance to Coos Bay, requiring ground transportation like a rental car, taxi, or rideshare.
