About Charleston, Oregon

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Charleston is a historic fishing village on Oregon’s South Coast, surrounded by the waters of Coos Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the South Slough. Known for its rich maritime heritage and abundant seafood, the Charleston Marina remains at the heart of the community, where commercial fishing, crabbing, boating, and shellfish harvesting are a way of life. Visitors can explore locally owned restaurants, seafood markets, charter services, and shops while enjoying fresh local seafood and watching fishing vessels come and go from the harbor.

Charleston is surrounded by some of the South Coast’s most spectacular natural areas. Nearby Sunset Bay State Park, Cape Arago State Park, and Shore Acres State Park offer scenic beaches, hiking trails, tide pools, dramatic cliffs, and opportunities to see whales and other coastal wildlife. The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve provides another opportunity to experience the region’s unique estuary, wetlands, and waterways. Charleston is also home to the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, connecting the community to marine research and education.

Charleston’s history and culture are deeply connected to the Indigenous peoples who have called this region home for thousands of years. The area is part of the traditional homelands of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians, whose cultural and historical connections to the land and waterways remain an important part of the South Coast. Today, Charleston continues to celebrate its maritime heritage, local businesses, seafood industry, and community through festivals and events throughout the year. Whether you're exploring the coast, heading out on the water, enjoying fresh seafood, or simply taking in the scenery, Charleston offers an authentic Oregon Coast experience.