Fishing, wildlife viewing and exploring the peaceful waterways along Oregon’s South Coast…these are a few of our favorite things. For the ultimate summertime adventure, it doesn’t get much better than gliding along the water on a guided kayak tour.
With so many calm lakes, rivers and beaches to choose from, Oregon’s Adventure Coast is a haven for kayakers of all skill levels. Though there are ample opportunities for going on your own, we think embarking on a guided tour from local companies like South Coast Tours (SCT) is the way to go! SCT offers kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and kayak fishing from the Coos Bay area down to the California border and Brookings Harbor. The company is receiving much praise for their adventure paddle tours of rivers, estuaries and along shores of Oregon’s Southern Coast.
The company’s sincere passion for the outdoors and commitment to sustainability and ocean preservation sets them apart from many others. Taking a tour with one of their guides this summer is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the south coast like never before.
Though there are a number of fun-filled tours to choose from along the peaceful waterways and wild rivers up and down the coast, we’ve got our spotlight on the tours out of Coos Bay and Bandon, Oregon. Here are some options to consider:
The South Slough of the Coos River is home to the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve which is a protected area of land and estuary. There are many birds that utilize this beautiful area such as Bald Eagles, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Belted Kingfishers. The tides are great in this estuary so we will plan to ride the ebbing and flowing tides to make this paddle a little easier. There are also Harbor Seals and Brown Pelicans making for a fun wildlife viewing tour. Total distance is about 4.6 miles over 2.5 hours.
Visit www.southcoasttours.net to learn more about tours offered on Oregon’s South Coast.
The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve in Charleston, OR also offers guided kayak tours throughout the year. During the five-mile paddle, experienced guides will show you areas of the Reserve rarely seen by visitors. Please note you must bring your own kayak or canoe, paddles, water and lunch but a driver and shuttle will be provided. Click here for a schedule of their guided tours.
If you want to go on your own, there are multiple options! Sunset Bay State Park is a local favorite among kayakers. Known for its calm waters and easy access to the beach, Sunset Bay State Park is an ideal location for kayakers of all levels. Don’t own a kayak? No problem. Waxer’s Surf Shop is a great place to rent kayaks (or purchase) in addition to gear, clothing, and accessories you may need as you explore the south coast!
Whether it’s a guided tour or a self-guided tour, kayaking on Oregon’s Adventure Coast is an unforgettable adventure that belongs at the top of your summer bucket list. Want to learn more? Contact Us to get more tips on kayaking experiences as well as the inside scoop for finding the best local food, events and activities any time of the year.