A 3mi road runs from Highway 101 through the coastal forest, along the north bank of the Coquille estuary, and out to the Coquille River Lighthouse. About half a mile from the road, travelers can look across the Coquille at the 800 acres of salt marsh that are protected as Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. During spring and fall migrations you may spot sun-blocking flights of waterfowl and shorebirds. Another mile brings you to a parking lot; hike 100 yards over the grass-covered sand dune to discover several miles of sandy beach. At the end of the road another parking lot provides additional access to the beach and brings you to the lighthouse, a squat 1896 structure at the mouth of the Coquille, a long stone's throw across the river from Bandon's Old Town.