One of my family's favorite spots to visit on Oregon's coast is Bandon-by-the-sea. With its scenic location on Oregon's rocky shore, dotted by sea-weathered buildings, Bandon is the best kind of eye candy.

Approximately 90 miles north of the California border along Highway 101 and almost 90 miles west of Interstate 5 along Highway 42S, Bandon has much to offer its visitors.

Many of the accommodations are either on the beach or across the street on the south end of town along Beach Loop Drive. A wayside on this road provides a view of the spectacular rocky outcroppings so common to the Oregon coast, including Face Rock. Just north of Bandon are campgrounds at Bullards Beach State Park. The ocean is generally too cold to swim in, but it's fun to splash around with the kids at the edge of the waves.

There are also sand castles to be built, Frisbees to be thrown, tide pools to explore and kites to be flown. The crashing waves create the most soothing lullaby for little ones, while calming the souls of the adults. Even sitting in a chair, umbrella overhead, book in hand, letting the wind ruffle the pages, is a worthwhile endeavor on Bandon's many beaches.

Of course, one can't visit the aforementioned Bullards Beach without stopping at the Coquille River Lighthouse, a.k.a. The Bandon Light. Currently seeking funds for much-needed restoration after more than 100 years of the sea's abuse, the lighthouse still directs boats safely into the harbor. It also provides a view of the meeting of the Coquille River and the Pacific Ocean. Guided tours are available daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In addition to playing on the beach, other activities are available, such as hiking, biking and horseback riding along trails on or near the beaches. You'll also enjoy crabbing and fishing from the pier, as well as in the surf and along the Coquille River. Kayaking is another fun activity to try.

Had enough of the beach? Check out the town. Visit the Coquille River Museum, located in Old Town. The building has recently been refurbished, and it houses displays featuring Bandon's maritime history and the devastating 1936 fire which destroyed most of the town.

More interested in shopping than history? Take a stroll through Old Town near the harbor. There are enough shops and restaurants to appeal to a variety of tastes.

One of the highlights of my family's trip to the area included a visit to the Bandon Cheese Factory, one block east of the museum. Visitors can sample most of their cheese selections, as well as cheese curds. The store sells a handful of other items besides cheese – such as crackers and meats – that could be combined with the cheeses for a light picnic lunch. They also sell ice cream that comes from the nearby Umpqua Dairy, located in Roseburg, Ore.

Finally, take a short drive and explore West Coast Game Park Safari, located 7 miles south of Bandon on Highway 101. In operation for 28 years, the park claims to be "the original walk-through safari." Animals, such as goats, sheep, llamas and other petting-zoo types, roam freely throughout the park along with the visitors. Lions, tigers, bears and others can be found in zoo-like habitats. When my family visited, we actually got to stand with and pet live tiger cubs, a definite thrill.

All this and more can be found in and around Bandon-by-the-sea.

Bandon photos courtesy of Mike Vickery.

• Everybody has that special place in their hometown – that place you love to take your children and can't wait to show off to visiting family and friends. Whether it's a wonderful museum, a restaurant offering family fun, a beautiful park, a quaint, out-of-the-way shop or some other special place you treasure, share it with us!
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