Coos Bay Oregon Boardwalk and Waterfront
South Coast

Coos Bay

🌊

About Coos Bay Oregon

Coos Bay is the largest city on the Oregon Coast and a bustling hub of maritime history, rugged natural beauty, and cultural richness. Located on the deepest natural harbor between San Francisco and Seattle, it has long been a center for shipping and timber, but today it draws visitors with its spectacular state parks, botanical gardens, and vibrant waterfront boardwalk. The true magic of Coos Bay lies just west of the city along the Cape Arago Highway. Here, a trio of magnificent state parks—Sunset Bay, Shore Acres, and Cape Arago—offer some of the most dramatic scenery in the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can marvel at the crashing waves of the "garden by the sea" at Shore Acres, listen to the barking seals at Simpson Reef, or relax on the protected sands of Sunset Bay. The contrast between the industrial heritage of the bay and the wild cliffs of the cape is striking. Downtown Coos Bay is undergoing a renaissance, with historic buildings finding new life as art museums, breweries, and restaurants. The Coos Art Museum, housed in a 1936 Art Deco post office, sets the tone for a town that values creativity. Whether you're storm watching from the cliffs, kayaking the South Slough Estuary, or enjoying fresh local seafood, Coos Bay offers a deep and diverse coastal experience.

The largest city on the Oregon Coast, rich in maritime history and coastal culture.

Coos Bay

56°

Patchy Fog

H:49°L:49°
Wind3 mph N
Humidity94%
Pressure1013 mb
5-Day Forecast
Today
49°
49°
Thu
54°
70°
Fri
47°
62°
Sat
47°
64°
Sun
45°
63°

Tide Predictions

Wednesday, September 23

4:41 AM
Low Tide
0.54 ft
11:15 AM
High Tide
6.33 ft
4:53 PM
Low Tide
2.51 ft
10:46 PM
High Tide
6.94 ft

Thursday, September 24

5:16 AM
Low Tide
0.44 ft
11:42 AM
High Tide
6.79 ft
5:32 PM
Low Tide
1.82 ft
11:31 PM
High Tide
7.14 ft

Friday, September 25

5:48 AM
Low Tide
0.48 ft
12:09 PM
High Tide
7.24 ft
6:11 PM
Low Tide
1.10 ft

Saturday, September 26

12:15 AM
High Tide
7.23 ft
6:20 AM
Low Tide
0.65 ft
12:37 PM
High Tide
7.65 ft
6:49 PM
Low Tide
0.43 ft

Sunday, September 27

12:59 AM
High Tide
7.20 ft
6:52 AM
Low Tide
0.97 ft
1:06 PM
High Tide
7.99 ft
7:28 PM
Low Tide
-0.15 ft

Monday, September 28

1:45 AM
High Tide
7.04 ft
7:25 AM
Low Tide
1.41 ft
1:36 PM
High Tide
8.22 ft
8:09 PM
Low Tide
-0.56 ft
Data: NOAA Tides & Currents — Datum: MLLW
Predictions for Charleston/Coos Bay

Marine Forecast

Coastal conditions near

Height6.365 ft
Period10.4s
Direction
WNW
11PM1AM3AM5AM7AM9AM11AM1PM3PM5PM7PM9PM0ft2ft4ft6ft8ft

Coos Bay in Photos

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IMG_0374

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Gardens, Cliffs & Culture

Top Attractions in Coos Bay

Shore Acres State Park

Perched on dramatic sandstone cliffs, this park was once the estate of a timber baron. It features five acres of formal gardens that bloom year-round, including a rose garden and Japanese garden. It is famous for its holiday lights display and spectacular storm watching spots.

Parking fee required ($5). Gardens open daily.

Cape Arago State Park

Located at the end of the cape, this park offers panoramic views of the ocean and the sounds of seals and sea lions on Simpson Reef below. Trails lead down to secluded coves and tide pools rich with marine life.

Excellent spot for whale watching.

Coos Bay Boardwalk

A scenic wooden promenade along the waterfront featuring interpretative displays about the city's maritime history, a tugboat, and views of the working harbor. It connects the downtown area to the water.

Free access. Great for a casual stroll.

Coos Art Museum

Oregon's third-oldest art museum, housed in a stunning Art Deco building. It holds a permanent collection of contemporary Northwest art and hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

Located downtown. Modest admission fee.

Sunset Bay State Park

A protected bay with towering cliffs that block the wind, creating one of the safest swimming beaches on the coast. It features a large campground, hiking trails, and beautiful sunset views.

Day-use and camping available.

Simpson Reef Overlook

One of the best places on the coast to view marine mammals. From the overlook, you can see and hear hundreds of seals, sea lions, and occasionally elephant seals resting on the rocks of Shell Island.

Bring binoculars. No access to the island itself.

Mingus Park

A beloved city park featuring a Japanese garden, a lake with a walking path, and a swimming pool. It's a peaceful green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for picnics.

Free entry. Walking trails through redwoods.

Oregon Coast Historical Railway

An outdoor museum displaying vintage locomotives, logging equipment, and railway artifacts. It preserves the history of the railroads that were vital to the timber industry.

Located near the boardwalk. Free admission.

Hiking Trails & Nature

Discover the raw beauty of Coos Bay's coastline. Trails wind along sandstone cliffs, through botanical gardens, and into the heart of quiet estuaries.

Sunset Bay to Cape Arago Trail

Moderate 8.0 miles round trip

A stunning section of the Oregon Coast Trail connecting all three state parks. It winds along the cliff edge, offering constant ocean views, before dipping into lush coastal forests.

South Slough Estuary Trails

Easy/Moderate Varies (1-5 miles)

A network of trails in the first National Estuarine Research Reserve. Walk through salt marshes and forests to observation decks perfect for birdwatching and seeing the tidal ecosystem.

Golden and Silver Falls

Moderate 2.8 miles round trip

Located about an hour inland, these two massive waterfalls are worth the drive. The trail winds through old-growth fir and maple trees to reach the plunging cascades.

Mingus Park Loop

Easy 1.0 mile loop

A gentle, paved path around the lake in Mingus Park, extending into the wooded hills. It's a relaxing urban nature walk.

Bluebill Trail

Easy 1.25 miles loop

Located near the North Spit, this boardwalk trail circles a seasonal lake. It is excellent for viewing waterfowl and walking through a shore pine forest.

Millicoma Marsh Trail

Easy 1.5 miles loop

A flat trail winding through a tidal marsh area near the high school. It provides excellent opportunities for birding right in town.

Nearby Waterfalls

Just a short drive from the Coos Bay waterfront, Golden and Silver Falls are one of Oregon's best-kept secrets - two dramatic waterfalls in a single state park.

Golden Falls & Silver Falls

Easy
0.5 miles each
Accessibility: ★★★★★

Two stunning waterfalls in Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area. Golden Falls drops 160 feet while Silver Falls plunges 200 feet. Both are accessed via short, easy trails from the same parking area.

Pro tip: 24-mile drive from Coos Bay on narrow, winding roads. No facilities on-site. Can combine both falls in a 1-hour visit.

Laverne Falls

Easy
Short
Accessibility: ★★★★★

A smaller but beautiful waterfall in the Coos Bay area, offering an easy, family-friendly hike through coastal forest.

Pro tip: Well-maintained trail suitable for all ages. Good option for a quick nature walk.

Want to see more Oregon waterfalls, and finding lodging near any waterfallVisit Waterfalls Oregon
Find Hotels on Expedia →

Mark Your Calendar

Local Events & Festivals

Plan your trip around these upcoming coastal gatherings.

Charleston Seafood Festival

August 8–9, 2026

Blackberry Arts Festival

August 22, 2026

Bay Area Fun Festival

September 19–20, 2026

Shore Acres Holiday Lights

November 26 – December 31, 2026

Coos Bay Wine Walk

First Friday of every month

Where to Stay in Coos Bay

From oceanfront suites to budget-friendly base camps, find the perfect accommodation for your coastal getaway.

View of Edgewater Inn and Suites

Waterfront

Coos Bay, OR

Located directly on the bay, this hotel offers rooms with private balconies overlooking the water. It's quiet, comfortable, and close to the boardwalk.

Amenities

Bay views indoor pool hot tub continental breakfast.
Google Rating4.0/5
Book on Expedia
View of Bay Point Landing

Glamping/Luxury RV

Coos Bay, OR

A modern camping resort featuring Scandinavian-style cabins and Airstream suites. Located on a private beach, it offers a high-end outdoor experience.

Amenities

Indoor saltwater pool clubhouse private beach access.
Google Rating4.0/5
Book on Expedia
View of Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay

Mid-Range

Coos Bay, OR

A reliable and centrally located hotel. It's a convenient base for exploring both the downtown area and the nearby state parks.

Amenities

Free WiFi seasonal pool pet-friendly.
Google Rating4.0/5
Book on Expedia
View of Best Western Holiday Hotel

Mid-Range

Coos Bay, OR

Situated downtown, this hotel is within walking distance of restaurants and the boardwalk. Known for its cleanliness and indoor pool.

Amenities

Indoor pool hot tub fitness center.
Google Rating4.0/5
Book on Expedia
View of Motel 6 Coos Bay

Hotel

Coos Bay, OR

Enjoy your stay at Motel 6 Coos Bay located in beautiful Coos Bay. Book now for great rates and comfortable accommodations on the Oregon Coast.

Amenities

Free WiFi Free Parking Comfortable Rooms
Google Rating4.0/5
Book on Expedia
View of Global INN

Hotel

Coos Bay, OR

Enjoy your stay at Global INN located in beautiful Coos Bay. Book now for great rates and comfortable accommodations on the Oregon Coast.

Amenities

Free WiFi Free Parking Comfortable Rooms
Google Rating4.0/5
Book on Expedia

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Dining in Coos Bay

A culinary renaissance is happening here. Enjoy fresh oysters, locally handcrafted beers, and diverse international flavors right on the bay.

Local Flavors

7 Devils Brewing Co.

Brewery/Pub

A local favorite featuring handcrafted ales and a menu focused on locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is rustic and welcoming, often with live music.

Highlight

Outdoor patio, local ingredients, craft beer.

Restaurant O

Fine Dining/European

Offering a sophisticated menu with European influences, Restaurant O is the spot for a special dinner. The dishes are creative and beautifully presented.

Highlight

Farm-to-table, extensive wine list, intimate setting.

Craft beer and food

Local brews and fine dining

Sushi plate

Fresh catch from the Pacific

Sushi & Tacos

Tokyo Bistro

Japanese/Sushi

A highly-rated spot for fresh sushi and Japanese cuisine. Known for its friendly service and high-quality fish in a casual downtown setting.

Highlight

Fresh sushi, lunch specials, sake.

Shark Bites Cafe

Seafood/Tacos

A surf-themed cafe famous for its fish tacos and burgers. It's a fun, casual place to grab a bite after a day at the beach.

Highlight

Fish tacos, gluten-free options, quirky decor.

Casual Eats & Treats

The Boat Fish & Chips

Seafood/Casual

A unique eatery housed in a houseboat-style building on the water (on land). Famous for its generous portions of fish and chips and chowder.

Highlight

Waterfront feel, family-friendly, classic seafood.

Front Street Provisioners

Pizza/Italian

Wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas in a beautifully restored building. A great addition to Coos Bay's culinary scene.

Highlight

Wood-fired oven, craft cocktails, artisan pizza.

Cranberry Sweets

Sweets/Dessert

While primarily a candy shop, it's a must-visit landmark. Sample their famous cranberry candies and chocolates made right here in cranberry country.

Highlight

Free samples, gifts, local specialty.

Mean Street Sandwich Shop

Deli/Lunch

A local go-to for hearty, creative sandwiches. Perfect for packing a lunch before heading out to hike the cliffs.

Highlight

Fresh bread, huge portions, outdoor seating.

Sweets and desserts