• Sunset Bay is a sheltered cove, protected by sea cliffs and sandstone bluffs
A popular camping and day-use state park, Sunset Bay is one of the most picturesque destinations along the Cape Arago Highway, 12 miles southwest of Coos Bay and 3 miles southwest of Charleston.
Sea cliffs and sandstone bluffs protect the relatively shallow cove at the bay mouth. A gentle breeze blows across the cove, and the water is warmer and more tranquil than in most places along the Oregon Coast.
According to a local legend, pirates used this well-protected bay as a hiding haunt. Another interesting feature is the ghost forest that was created by an earthquake 1,200 years ago.
Surrounded by sandstone cliffs and reefs, this protected cove with a 0.2-mile sandy beach is an excellent place for picnicking, beachcombing, boating, surfing, kayaking, diving, swimming, and fishing.
At the peak of the summer season, the water is still cool but warms enough to swim in, which is rare for the Pacific Northwest.
The campground with RV and tent sites is just a short walk from the beach. Sunset Bay Golf Course is located near the park.
Dogs are allowed on a leash.
Things to Do at Sunset Bay State Park
Fishing
Shallow reefs outside of the mouth block the waves, making the bay a safe harbor for kayak fishing boats. This is a great spot to fish for rockfish and perch.
Sunset Bay State Park is home to the Angler of the Day tournament taking place in late August.
Hiking
The eight-mile hiking trail along Cape Arago Highway is a part of the Oregon Coastal Trail. The route connects Sunset Bay State Park to Shore Acres and Cape Arago State Parks.
Along the trail, you will enjoy the pristine coastal forest, cliffs, stunning ocean panoramas, Cape Arago Lighthouse, Gregory Point, Shore Acres State Park, and sea lions at Simpson Reef and Shell Island. The 2.5-mile trail leads to Bastendorff Beach County Park.
Pets are allowed on the trail but should be kept on a leash no longer than six feet; pet waste must be removed. Pets are not allowed in Shore Acres State Park; however, they can stay on the trail.
Cautions: Beware of changing tides, rip currents, driftwood, sneaker waves, and never turn your back on the ocean.
Sunset Bay State Park Camping, Lodging & Vacation Rentals
The campground is open year-round and includes 30 full-hookup sites, 35 electrical sites with water, 65 tent sites with nearby water, and 8 yurts. Each site has a picnic table and a fireplace with a grate. Book the site up to six months in advance on the website.
The closest lodging and vacation rentals are available in Charleston, North Bend, and Coos Bay.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Charleston and North Bend
Sunset Bay | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Oregon State Parks
Amenities: Paved parking, boat launch area, reservable meeting hall, picnic tables, firewood on sale, fish cleaning station, flush toilets, and showers
Activities: Swimming, watersports, hiking, biking, fishing, boating, scenic viewpoints
Day-use fees: None
Sunset Bay State Park is located:
- 11 miles southwest of Coos Bay
- 83 miles west of Roseburg
- 125 miles southwest of Eugene.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Sunset Bay State Park
From Highway-101 in North Bend
- Turn west onto Virginia Avenue and follow 0.6 miles to Broadway Avenue
- Turn left onto Broadway Avenue and go 0.9 miles to Newmark Avenue
- Bear right onto Newmark Avenue and drive 1.8 miles to Cape Arago Highway
- Turn left onto Cape Arago Highway and continue for 7.7 miles to Sunset Bay State Park.
Phone: 541-888-4902, 800-452-5687 (for reservation)