Myrtle Point offers abundant recreation and a slower pace of life
Named after the trees that line the Coquille River, Myrtle Point began as a small lumber and agricultural hub in the late 19th century. More than a century later, the community has transitioned away from its early industries but still encompasses a somewhat rural setting. “It’s a tiny little town, and it feels like you’ve stepped back 50 years,” says Elisa Doudna, a Realtor with Pacific Properties and longtime resident. “But we do have two stoplights now.” The area's natural surroundings are another defining feature, centering most activities around the outdoors. "You kind of have to be an outdoorsy person to live here," Doudna says.
Outdoor adventures stretch from the Coquille River to Bandon
Myrtle Point's mix of recreation is diverse. Eden Ridge Outfitters offers guided hunting trips for elk, blacktail deer and other native species. Coquille Myrtle Grove State Natural Site features wooded hiking trails 12 miles south. Rotary Park has playgrounds and tennis courts. "The kids spend a lot of time on the Coquille River during summer," Doudna says. She also mentions that day trips to the Pacific shoreline are a frequent activity among locals. Bandon, 30 miles west, comprises several beaches for direct access to the state’s picturesque coast.
A variety of home types sit along Myrtle Point’s wide streets
The homes range from Craftsman and Victorian to, most of all, ranch style, which fill most of the community. “Of all the towns in the area, Myrtle Point has the most turn-of-the-20th-century homes, beyond the midcentury builds,” Doudna says. Homebuyers will also find a few manufactured homes and townhouses. Most residences sit close to wide, evergreen-dotted streets on hilly terrain. Detached garages are located in the rear of properties. Myrtle Point's median sales price is around $300,000. The community also has a CAP Index Crime Score of 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4.
Myrtle Point High School offers college credit courses
Myrtle Point School District serves the community and has a C-minus rating on Niche. Myrtle Crest School earns a C, and Maple Middle School, which reopened in the 2024-2025 school year, has not received a rating. Myrtle Point High School has a C and offers the district’s Expanded Options Program. The program allows 11th and 12th-grade students to earn college credits while still in high school.
Local restaurants are in town, and big-box stores are farther out
Kozy Kitchen is one of the town's locally owned restaurants, known for its comfort-style breakfast dishes. “It may be the most popular spot in the area,” Doudna says. “The 8th Street Burger House is a new joint and is packed every time I drive by.” McKay’s Market sells groceries, and independently owned antique, appliance and hardware stores are also close to home along Spruce Street. Residents will need to make a 26-mile drive north to Coos Bay to shop at Walmart Supercenter, the nearest big-box retail store.
Logging museum and local events celebrate Myrtle Point’s roots
The Coos County Logging Museum details how the town's history intertwines with the lumber industry. Neighbors gather for a number of popular events, including the weeklong Coos County Fair & Rodeo, a community staple since 1912 that takes place in late July. “It’s very popular and brings everyone into town,” Doudna says. Aside from the rodeo, the fair features carnival rides, concerts and other activities for all ages. Christmas Lights the Night rings in the holiday season with a parade down Spruce Street in mid-December. Santa stops by for photos, and businesses stay open late to serve themed treats.
Getting around on State Route 42
State Route 42 connects the area to Coquille Valley Hospital 9 miles north and Coos Bay farther out in the same direction. Coos County Area Transit provides bus service on Maple Street, offering riders 46-minute rides into the neighboring city.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
