Bandon, Oregon

Until the moment we arrived in Bandon, we had no idea that we should have been looking forward to this day more.  It was our first time here and we initially booked a motel here because I found one in what seemed like a "good location" that was pet friendly and was just a short hop from Jedediah Smith.  

The photo above was taken from the point, just steps from our hotel room.

These beaches are unbelievable.  A fascinating mix of open sand and rock formations.  

The next series of photos were taken during low tide (at around 10:30am).

After you round the point, this is the view looking north.

Really?  We couldn't have gotten more lucky with the beautiful day.

This photo will help explain our elation.  The building in the distance is the Bandon Beach Motel, where we stayed.  And if you click the link you can see the aerial image of the point...there is more ocean on the other side of the bluff.  The location is outstanding.  Not only can you enjoy the views from above, but there is a staircase down to the beach right there too.

Bandon was also convenient because it was close enough for Jonah's GranMama to come stay with us.  Jonah was thrilled!

He is a very good eater.  We haven't found anything that he dislikes.

It wasn't long before we were back down at the beach exploring the tide pools.  

I was delighted....truly delighted.  I may as well been 8 again, with my shoes off, and pants rolled up, running around exclaiming "did you see those starfish?"

Seriously, did you see those starfish?

Daisy had fun investigating too.

I could have easily spent weeks here...and we did end up staying an additional night.  Which was good because while Jonah slept, Jesse and I watched the most beautiful sunset over the ocean from a bench on the bluff.  No pictures of that, but the record of golden light on the waves is in my memory.  And because our hotel room was so close, our baby monitor worked fine!

We decided.  We will come back.

I used all my photo energy at the tide pools, but I can't finish a post about Bandon without writing a glowing review about the Alloro Wine Bar & Restaurant.  They have a fantastic menu.  Innovative flavor combinations, fresh ingredients, great wine list.  Best seafood of the trip!  If you are in Bandon, and you are foodie, you must experience what they prepare at Alloro.

Last few favorite photos....

What an extraordinary place!