North Bend

Nestled inside the waterway of the Coos Bay on the coast of Southern Oregon, North Bend is a coastally influenced destination with a rich history. The region was first inhabited by Native Americans, and then later by European-descendent pioneers.

North Bend was named to reflect its physical location on the north bend of Coos Bay. The area was founded in 1863 by Thomas Symons, who called it Yarrow, and later purchased by Louis Simpson in 1902 who merged Yarrow with his family's mill site known as "Old Town, and renamed the area North Bend in 1903. Due to the proximity to the ocean and the logging industry, North Bend eventually became Oregon's largest coastal estuary and shipping port. The most iconic structure in North Bend is the McCullough Bridge, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

Today North Bend is a desirable, intimate and quaint coastal destination with plenty of nearby options for experiencing the Pacific Ocean, golfing, shopping, exploring, delving into ATV and off-road adventures and tasting local wines and foods.

Must See: The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, one of the many natural attractions in the area, features the largest consecutive area of coastal sand dunes in North America, some higher than 500 feet above sea level. In addition to a breathtaking scene, this area, which is located within the Siuslaw National Forest, provides a playground for recreational activities such as photography, fishing, plein-air painting, off-road vehicle use, hiking, canoeing and horseback riding.

Lodging: Most of the historic inns are nestled in the nearby town of Coos Bay, Oregon, including the Old Tower House Inn, the oldest building in Coos Bay. Though the building is old, the location is ideal as the Old Tower House faces the bay and provides conveniences such as fireplaces, internet access and an airport shuttle.

Cuisine: The casual nature of North Bend is reflected in the wide selection of comfortable dining establishments. Many restaurants, such as Ciccarelli's, Hilltop House, Captain's Choice Family Fish House and Coach House, feature seafood and fresh, locally produced Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Ground Transportation: To fully experience this remote destination, it is ideal to rent a car once you debark from your private jet.

Packing Tips: The Pacific Ocean provides a nearly constant cool breeze which moderates the climate, though fog is frequent and rain abundant, particularly in winter. Layered clothing, sweaters, waterproof outerwear, a hat and an umbrella could prove to be useful.

Recommended Books: Science fiction author Ursula K. Le Guin, a Library of Congress Living Legend, has lived in Oregon since 1958. Her best known works include the Earthsea cycle and The Left Hand of Darkness.

Currency: The U.S. dollar is the local currency.

Calling Code United States: 1

Best Travel Dates: Because of a consistent climate, North Bend Oregon is a desirable destination throughout the year. Winter can be an especially good time to linger on the Oregon Coast during the magnificent storms that are best experienced in an inn, sharing a bottle of wine near a cozy fire.

Airports in North Bend