A small but lively coastal town, Winchester Bay, Oregon, is the place where the mighty Umpqua River meets the Pacific Ocean. The town sits right on U.S. Route 101, about 4 miles south of Reedsport. The population is just around 1,000 people, but don’t let that fool you - this destination is packed with adventure, history, and stunning natural beauty.

Long before tourists arrived, the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw tribes lived in the area. The town itself grew as a timber and fishing port. As the timber industry faded, tourism and sport fishing became the main draws. In recent years, Salmon Harbor Marina gave new life to the area, turning Winchester Bay into one of the Oregon Coast’s top fishing and recreation spots.

Salmon Harbor Marina is the heart of Winchester Bay. It’s a busy port with more than 400 slips for commercial and sport-fishing boats. The area is alive with visitors, especially during salmon season, DuneFest, and summer events.

The town’s waterfront is lined with seafood restaurants, local bars, tackle shops, cozy motels and RV parks.

Winchester Bay is a perfect base for exploring the Oregon Coast, fishing, and dune adventures.

Things to Do in Winchester Bay

Umpqua Lighthouse

The iconic Umpqua River Lighthouse stands just one mile south of town, inside Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. The 65-foot-tall, red-roofed brick lighthouse was built in 1894 and shines over the dunes and sea.

You can tour the lighthouse, visit the Coast Guard museum and interpretive center, and enjoy panoramic views from the bluff.

Lake Marie

Tucked away in Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, Lake Marie is a peaceful freshwater spot hugged by lush forest. It’s a great place to watch for herons, ducks, and ospreys gliding over the water.

If you enjoy kayaking or fishing, this lake is easily accessible and rarely crowded. Walking trails wind around the lake, making it a relaxing spot for a stroll or a quiet picnic.

Winchester Bay Fishing, Crabbing, and Clamming

Winchester Bay is a fishing paradise. The lower Umpqua River and the nearby ocean provide some of the best fishing on the Oregon Coast. You can find:

Sturgeon (peak spring and early summer)
Chinook salmon (July through September)
Shad (May and June)
Bass (upstream from Reedsport).

Crabbing and clamming are year-round pastimes. Every August and September, the town hosts a Crab Derby - catch a tagged crab and you could win $5,000!

Salmon Harbor Marina, the busiest port between Florence and Coos Bay, is always buzzing with activity. It’s fun to watch the boats come in with their catch and maybe buy fresh seafood straight off the docks.

The boardwalk is lively, making it a great place to soak up the coastal atmosphere.

Events in Winchester Bay

DuneFest

Every summer, usually in late July or early August, DuneFest takes over Winchester Bay. This is one of the biggest ATV events on the West Coast, drawing both professionals and amateurs for thrilling races, vendor booths, demo rides, fireworks, and live concerts. The entire town comes alive with action and excitement.

Crab Derby

From August 1 to mid-September, Winchester Bay hosts its annual Crab Derby. It’s a big draw for crabbers, hoping to catch that one tagged crab worth $5,000. The event brings in visitors from all over, adding a festive spirit to the docks and marina.

Local Markets and Festivals

Throughout the peak season, you’ll find Winchester Bay buzzing with small craft markets, live music at the marina, and fishing tournaments. These local events are perfect for meeting friendly locals and tasting the best of coastal Oregon.