A breezy atmosphere and local flavor shape life in Bandon
From its status as the “Cranberry Capital of Oregon” to the notable rock formations along its beaches, much of Bandon’s identity centers around its natural offerings. “It’s a small town that’s got its own little thing,” says Keeli Gernandt, a local Realtor with David L. Davis Real Estate, who moved to the area in the 1970s. “It’s very easygoing, and we have really remarkable beaches.” Beyond its picturesque coastline is a lively downtown district known as Old Town, where residents gather for annual events and stop by local restaurants and shops.
Beaches, parks and golfing keep residents active
At Bandon Beach, it's common to see locals walking along the shoreline, which provides views of rock formations like The Castle. “The beaches in town are very walkable and pretty,” Gernandt says. “They are not crowded, and that draws a lot of people in. You can just be alone down there.” Port of Bandon has a public boat launch for spending a day on the Coquille River, and the nearby Port O’ Call at Tony's Crab Shack provides crabbing rentals. Coquille River Lighthouse has been a landmark since 1896 and is open to visitors in the summer. Bandon City Park includes sports facilities for pick-up games, a dog park and Russ Sommers Memorial Playground. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort on the river’s north side stretches across six golf courses open to the public, providing varying challenges for amateurs and pros alike.
Quiet streets lined with trees and a mix of home styles
Single-family homes in Bandon include late 19th-century bungalows, cottages and ranch-style homes from the mid-to-late 20th century to the 21st. These sit close to quiet streets dotted with western junipers and other native trees, often with driveways and fenced-in backyards. “It’s very walkable, bikeable and dog friendly,” Gernandt says. New developments are common within the community’s south and northeastern sides, where subdivisions like Ocean Terrace offer a blend of ranch and New Traditional style homes. Prices throughout the community typically range from $300,000 to $650,000. Larger properties on the waterfront are often custom, with prices capping around $1.8 million.
Local shops and restaurants fill Old Town
Old Town is the hub for local shopping, from specialty stores to boutiques and art galleries. The walkable downtown district also features over a dozen restaurants, including Tony’s Crab Shack. The waterfront spot is known for its clam chowder and crab cakes. “It’s probably the most popular seafood restaurant,” Gernandt says. Broken Anchor Bar & Grill stays true to the coastal aesthetic, serving cocktails and burgers from its nautical-themed dining room. McKay’s Market covers groceries in town, and Walmart in Coos Bay, 24 miles north, is the nearest big-box retail store.
Bandon Cranberry Festival and other annual events
For over 75 years, the Bandon Cranberry Festival has brought the community together in early September. The weekend-long event celebrates the area’s cranberry harvesting industry through a themed parade, live music and activities for all ages. “It’s evolved more into a touristy thing, but that’s when people come home to Bando to celebrate,” Gernandt says. The community also gathers on the Fourth of July for live music, competitions like crab derbies and a grand fireworks show over the Coquille River. Port of Bandon Boardwalk Art Show places a spotlight on the area’s arts scene, with local and regional artists showcasing their work from mid-May through October.
Bandon High School students can get a headstart on college credits
Bandon School District serves the community and has a B rating on Niche. Ocean Crest Elementary School has a B-minus, and Harbor Lights Middle School scores a B-plus. Bandon High School earns a B-plus and offers dual enrollment in partnership with Southwestern Oregon Community College. The program allows enrolled students to earn high school and college credits while taking one course.
Bus and highway routes connect the area to Coos Bay and Coquille
U.S. Route 101 supports commutes into Coos Bay. Curry Public Transit’s Coastal Express also provides 50-minute bus rides into the city three times a day with a stop at Ray’s Food Place. State Route 42S is also accessible, connecting the area to Coquille 24 miles northeast.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
