Attractions

Local Attractions

Below are just a few of the local attractions in Winchester Bay, Reedsport, and the surrounding area.

Winchester Bay

Winchester Bay is a unique attraction unto itself. Nestled in a cove surrounded by fir covered hills it has something for every member of the family.

From the Ocean to the forests, from the dunes to the town itself there is something new to do each and every day.

The locals are friendly and helpful and always eager to help visitors have a memorable time during their stay.

Winchester Bay is home of the Dune Festival, Ocean Fest, Crab Bounty competition and the largest fireworks display on the south coast. At the end of the year Fisherman's RV is host to the largest Salmon Darby Awards in the state. An all day event that is fun for the entire family.

For more information regarding Winchester Bay please visit;

Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce or Winchester Bay Merchants Association

Whale Overlook

January through March Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast One of the most spectacular sights to see on the Oregon Coast is the annual migration of whales. Gray whales are the most frequently spotted as they travel from the cold waters of the Bering Sea to the lagoons of Mexico to breed and give birth. The 10,000 mile round trip is the longest known for any mammal. In Winchester Bay, scout for the migration at the Umpqua River Whale Watching Station adjacent to the Lighthouse. A viewing platform and interpretive signage was constructed in 1989 through the efforts of local volunteer whale watchers known as the Umpqua River Spyhoppers.

Click image for a Google Earth Tour of the Winchester Bay Overlook.

Umpqua River Light House

Umpqua River Light House Standing guard over the mouth of the Umpqua River is a sentinel of the sea which cast its light over 20 miles out to sea. The lighthouse is 67 feet in height and is located 165 feet above sea level. This is the second lighthouse on the Umpqua River being washed away in 1861. The current light house was built in 1890 and illuminated in 1894.

Click on image for Google Earth of the Umpqua Light House.

Umpqua Discovery Center

Discovery Center BACK TO THE FUTURE is what the Umpqua Discovery Center is all about. Interactive exhibits and programs demonstrate how land, water, and people have shaped each other over time and lays the frame work for the future of generations to come. The center is a cultural and educational resource for all ages. Wheelchair accessible and has one wheelchair available for use by visitors to the center.

For more information on the Discovery Center visit;

http://www.umpquadiscoverycenter.com/

Click on the image for a Google Earth Tour of the Umpqua Discovery Center.

Coastal Visitor Center

Coastal Visitor Center The Coastal Visitor Center occupies the former Umpqua River U.S. Coast Guard Station. This historical building is located about two miles south of Winchester Bay and overlooks the mouth of the Umpqua River. The house has displays documenting the areas natural and maritime history. It also serves as an originating point for tours of the Umpqua River Lighthouse. (Open May 1 - September 30).

Umpqua Light Interpretive Center

The interpretive center informs the public on whale migration as well as how the dunes developed over the ages. There is also information regarding the Oyster triangle and other type so fish and wildlife in the are. Directly across the street from Umpqua Light House and just a short walk south of the Costal Visitors Center.

Lake Marie

Lake Marie is just south (within walking distance) of the Umpqua Light House. This is a great place to go picnicking, fishing, or you can take a nature hike around the lake on a well maintained trail.

On the east end of the lake there is a large campground in among the Douglas fir and there are a lot of picnic tables and fire places available to the public.

Click on image for a Google Earth tour of the Lake Marie area.