Coquille River Lighthouse

The Coquille River Lighthouse is a historic tower in Bandon on the Oregon coast with an unusual elongated octagonal shape. The building stands near the Pacific entrance and was built to guide ships through the river opening.

The lighthouse began operations in 1896 to guide ships through the dangerous river mouth, where shifting sands made passage difficult. It was the final lighthouse the government built on the Oregon coast.

The lighthouse represents maritime traditions along the Oregon coast and shows how important such structures were for local identity. Visitors today come to feel this connection to the region's seafaring past.

The site is open to visitors from May through September and works best on clear weather days. Parking is located north of the building, with a short walk to reach it.

When a major fire destroyed Bandon in 1936, the lighthouse grounds became a refuge for residents. The keeper helped many people cross the river by boat to reach safety.

Website: https://lighthousefriends.com/light.asp?ID=127

GPS coordinates: 43.12390,-124.42423

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:08