Paddle Your Way Through Beauty and Adventure on Oregon’s Adventure Coast

Are you searching for a unique adventure to help you break out your rut this spring or summer? A paddling trip on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston just might do the trick. Paddling the waters of Coos Bay not only makes for a delightful outdoor vacation, but it is also a peaceful way to explore the area’s natural beauty and experience the Oregon Coast in a way you’ve never experienced it before.

Paddling adventures like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are enjoying a surge in popularity these days. Exploring the peaceful waterways along Oregon’s Adventure Coast is a wonderful way to unplug and reconnect with nature while keeping a safe distance from crowds. With so many calm lakes, rivers and beaches to choose from, it’s not surprising that this area is a haven for outdoor lovers of all skill levels.

**Please remember a PFD/ life-jacket may save your life, even if you are an experienced swimmer!**

Whether it’s stand-up paddleboarding (SUP ) in Sunset Bay State Park, kayaking in the waters of Coos Bay (see videos below) or canoe/kayak fishing in one of the many freshwater lakes - there is a perfect paddling adventure for everyone.

Here are a few more local destinations where you can get your paddle on!

SOUTH SLOUGH NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE

With more than 4,800 acres of open water channels, tidal and freshwater wetlands, South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is a paddlers' paradise. This local natural treasure is home to various marine life, including shellfish, salmon and birds including Bald Eagles, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Belted Kingfishers. Guided tours of the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve have been offered by the Slough staff and local tour guides in the past and are likely to resume as Coos County enters into the moderate or low risk category for COVID-19.

For more tips, be sure to read Paddling Trip Information: How to Come Prepared .

SUNSET BAY STATE PARK

Ask any local Oregon’s Adventure Coast resident where they prefer to go kayaking and paddleboarding, they will probably say Sunset Bay State Park . Known for its calm waters and easy access to the beach, Sunset Bay State Park is an ideal location for kayakers of all levels.

Sunset Bay State Park is situated in one of the most scenic areas on the Oregon coast and features beautiful sandy beaches protected by towering sea cliffs as well as a campground for tent camping, RV’s, and cozy yurts. Day-use and picnic facilities are located along the bay to allow easy access for kayakers and paddle-boarders as well as beachcombing, fishing, swimming, and boating.

LOCAL FRESHWATER LAKES

Head just 15 miles north of Coos Bay, you will find approximately 2,000 acres of calm, picturesque water surrounded by mountains and lush natural beauty. Tenmile Lakes in Lakeside together are the 4th largest lake in the state of Oregon and offer the setting for a paddling adventure. In addition to a swimming and wading area, the lakes have multiple boat ramps, a fishing dock, ample parking, picnic tables, and more. Click here to view other freshwater lakes near Coos Bay.

LOCAL RIVERS

The Umpqua, Coos or Coquille rivers are ideal destinations for a peaceful canoeing adventure and/or kayak fishing.

WHERE TO RENT KAYAKS AND PADDLEBOARDS

• Waxer’s Surf Shop offers rentals as well as surf, kayak and SUP lessons.
• Bahama Boards in Coos Bay is a fantastic place to purchase or rent kayaks and paddle boards in addition to gear, clothing, and accessories you may need as you explore the Pacific ocean waters, lakes and rivers!
• Canoas Bay Bridge Rentals in North Bend also offers kayak rentals and other fishing necessities. For added convenience, you can also book a room at their Bay Bridge Motel!

GUIDED PADDLING TOURS

• South Coast Tours offers a guided Wildlife Viewing Kayak Tour of South Slough that typically lasts about 2.5 hours.
• Wavecrest Discoveries offers nature-based half-day paddling tours on the Coos Estuary, on the lower Coquille River or on Eel Lake.

WATER SAFETY

We want you to stay safe and aware! Please always wear a PFD/ life-jacket when you are out on the water and review all safety guidelines and Oregon Kayaking Laws that have been set and governed by the Oregon State Marine Board . Paddle Camp is an excellent resource to help you navigate the world of kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, and river rafting.**

Whether it’s a guided tour or a self-guided tour, a paddling adventure on Oregon’s Adventure Coast is an unforgettable experience to add to your “bucket list”. Contact us to get even more tips as well as the inside scoop for finding the best local food and activities any time of the year. Visit our Adventure Page for more cool ideas and inspiration.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Coos Bay Estuary Water Trails - State of Oregon

Coos Bay Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation

Boating & Kayaking - The Bandon Guide

Fresh Water Fishing Options – By Body of Water

How do I go about paddling South Slough?

Kayak Fishing 101 on Oregon’s Adventure Coast

Kayak Fishing On The South Coast

Local outdoor enthusiasts publish canoe, kayak and paddle guide - Guide available at the Coos Bay Visitor Center, 50 Central Ave.

Oregon Coast Outdoor Activities - Water Recreation

Paddle the Southern Oregon Coast - Travel Oregon

An Oregon fishing license is required for those age 12 years or older. Daily licenses are available. Most fishing charters, bait shops and sporting goods stores can supply these for you. Check out our fishing license requirement page for where to buy a license and bait. You can also find a list of local businesses that can help by clicking here.

Editor’s Note: As the developments in Coronavirus (COVID-19) continue to unfold, please follow the direction from our public health authorities including the CDC, Oregon Health Authority, and Coos Health & Wellness to protect yourself, our community and our visitors. Face coverings are mandatory for all when inside a public space AND outdoors when 6 ft distancing cannot be maintained.

If you are ready to travel, we are ready to welcome you back to Oregon’s Adventure Coast. However, if you are feeling ill or not comfortable traveling right now, we encourage you to stay home and stay healthy. Let’s all do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19.