Do you know what to do if you find a baby bird or an injured seal on the beach? Find out those answers and more with this informational guide.
Visit Us
The seabirds and pinnipeds found on offshore rocks, reefs and islands are extremely susceptible to human disturbance; thus these areas are closed to public entry year-round. However, many state parks and other open spaces along the mainland offer phenomenal views of the refuge and its wildlife. Mainland sites with viewing decks overlooking seabird colonies include Ecola State Park, Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, Coquille Point in Bandon, Heceta Head State Scenic Viewpoint, and Harris Beach State Park. Other locations on the Oregon coast can be found by consulting the Oregon Coast Birding Trail guide.
Directions
The 1,853 islands can be seen from numerous viewpoints up and down the coast. Coquille Point, a mainland unit of Oregon Islands Refuge, is located in Bandon. Take 11th street in Bandon and head west for about one mile. The road will end at the parking area at Coquille Point.
Hours & Fees
There are no fees for this refuge.
The refuge does not have a visitor center. The islands can be viewed from various locations at all hours, including Coquille Point.
Weather & Tides
Weather on the coast is a mercurial thing. You can expect to experience temperatures ranging between 45 and 75 degrees; fog and high winds are common, as well as radiant sunshine. Rain is a perennial threat, so bring proper attire.
If you're visiting during the winter, expect rainy conditions. In summer, you may—may—experience nice and dry days. Check the forecast for current conditions.
Incoming tides isolate rocks from headlands and the shore. Avoid the temptation of strolling to an interesting rock without knowing the tides. Free tide tables are available at state park offices, information centers, shops and motels.
Trails
Coquille Point in Bandon is a mainland section of Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge that is open to public use year-round. Two wooden stairways located at the western end of 11th street and 8th street provide access to the beach from the headland. On the point itself is a short walkway with benches, interpretive signs, a picnic area, and parking.
Other Facilities in the Complex
Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge is managed as one of six Refuges in the Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex. See below for the other five Refuges and experience them all.
Refuge Headquarters:
Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex
2127 SE Marine Science Drive
Newport, OR 97365
541-867-4550
oregoncoast@fws.gov
What is a Refuge Complex?
A National Wildlife Refuge Complex is a group of two or more refuges, wildlife management areas or other refuge conservation areas that are managed from one central office. Refuges are grouped into a complex because they occur in a similar ecological region, such as a watershed or specific habitat type, and have a related purpose and management needs.
The Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex is managed from our headquarters in Newport, Oregon. The office located at Bandon Marsh NWR serves as a south-coast field office.
Rules and Policies
Much of Oregon Islands NWR is designated as National Wilderness and is closed to public use. All coastal rocks and islands are off-limits, and all watercraft should stay at least 500 feet away to avoid disturbance of wildlife.
Locations
Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex Headquarters. This location is not a visitor's center.
The office for Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge also serves as the Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex's South Coast Headquarters. Check in here for information on Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. This location is not a visitor's center.