For a Quick Trip Away: Bandon

For a quick trip away, I hit the highway for Bandon. Located on Highway 101 south of Coos Bay, this somewhat-touristy town maintains much of its small-town charm. I always return from this Oregon Coast town refreshed and ready to dive back into my very busy life.

Driving south for an hour from Reedsport, Bandon is a good day trip. There are also many vacation rentals and oceanfront hotels in which to stay the night if you want to stretch your trip into a long weekend. The Inn at Face Rock is a great place to stay that's located on the fairway of Bayfront Loop's own golf course.

For fabulous views of rock-studded, ocean waters, there's the Face Rock viewpoint. I've spent many afternoons staring at this huge rock with the sun going down behind it from either the beach or from my little Honda. When it's raining, I gaze at the seagulls attempting to stay in the air from the inside of Ruby and breathe in the relaxation of those moments.

In Bandon's Old Town, there is the Second Street Gallery with its many paintings hung from tall walls, gorgeous artisan jewelry, and gorgeous pottery. On girl trips, my friends and I always come away with a piece of jewelry or a new blown glass bowl. Next door is Winter River Books where they have a great selection of books, journals, and greeting cards. We also frequent the Bandon Bakery and the Two Loons cafe with its orange water and gourmet sandwiches. The owners of the Two Loons also own High Dock Bistro, which is a spendy restaurant right on the water.

We also take a hike on the driftwood beach where the Coquille River Lighthouse is located. This miniature lighthouse appears to be larger than it really is from across the Coquille River that joins the ocean near its position.

While I do not play golf, there is also Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. This is a world-class golf course located near the entrance of Bandon from the north. There are a few courses and two fine restaurants out there. It comes highly recommended. It is situated off of Highway 101 and I pass by it on the way to and from Bandon.