Local Attractions
Sandpines Golf Links
Nestled amidst wind swept sand dunes and towering pines, Sandpines Golf Links is a breathtaking location for coastal golf. The Rees Jones designed course was honored as the “Best New Public Course in America” in 1993. As one of the premier courses in the Northwest, Sandpines received a 4½ star rating from Golf Digest’s list of “Places to Play in the USA.”
The par 72, 7190-yard course is a true test of the game to golfers of all levels. Both nines incorporate the beautifully rugged canvas that is the Central Oregon Coast. The outward nine is sculpted out of a forest of towering pines and majestic crystal blue lakes reminiscent of those found on the Monterey Peninsula. The inward nine, with its traditional links style brings you back to the soul of the game, with the rolling dunes at the forefront from tee to green.
Our 9,000 square foot clubhouse is now open with the Tavolo Restaurant & Lounge as the centerpiece featuring breathtaking views of the golf course and fresh, local cuisine. The golf shop offers the latest in golf equipment, apparel, and accessories for both men and women. A second phase will include a boutique hotel with spa and banquet facilities.
Heceta Head Lighthouse
Pronounced “Ha – SEE – Ta” by most, “HECK – ah – Ta” by others, yet everyone agrees Heceta Head is one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world. The Heceta Head Lighthouse and Light Keeper’s house are circa 1894. Both are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The lighthouse is a working lighthouse. From a height of 205 feet above the ocean, its “first order” Fresnel lens, casts it’s beams some 21 miles out to sea. It is the brightest light on the Oregon coast. It is said to be the most photographed lighthouse in the United States.
The Heceta Head Keeper’s House is perched on a cliff with a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean and the beach below. Paths from the Keeper’s House lead both to the beach and to the lighthouse.
Located just 11 miles north of Dunes City on Highway 101.
Oregon Dunes Recreation Area
For nearly fifty miles, from the mouth of the Siuslaw, to Cape Blanco at Coos Bay, the largest area of dunes in the country lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains. In places, the dunes extend 2.5 miles inland, and some are as high as 500 feet. In 1972, 32,186 acres of dunes, forest, streams, and lakes were set aside as the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
The dunes are found south of Florence and north of the neighboring communities of Coos Bay, Charleston and North Bend. The Siuslaw River marks the northern boundary of the dunes, at Florence. The Umpqua River flows into Winchester Bay and the ocean, at the town of Reedsport, halfway along the stretch of dunes.
Siuslaw Rod & Gun Club
The Siuslaw Rod & Gun Club is a private membership run “Sports Shooting” complex. We pride ourselves in the education of Safe-Shooting. The club is run by all volunteers. 24 Hour Gun Club Hot Line 541-902-7708. The Club shooting hours are 8:00am until 9:30pm, 7 days a week.
Siltcoos Canoe Trail
Canoe and kayak enthusiasts will uncover natural secrets along the recently developed Siltcoos River Canoe Trail. A few minutes’ drive will lead to ocean beaches, sand dunes, nature trails, camping areas and prime locations for crabbing and clamming.
Sea Lion Caves
Sea Lion Caves is nature’s home for wild sea lions and a variety of sea birds. Sea Lion Caves is located 11 miles North of Florence on the Oregon Coast.
The vast cavern with the roar of the great Steller sea lions, the cries of the wailing birds, and the restless surge of the ocean into the cave below, form an unforgettable experience.