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17 Top Bandon Dunes Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

bandon dunes packing list
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Bandon Dunes is a beautiful golf resort located in coastal Oregon. This golf course and resort are located on 30 acres, right next to the ocean. With golf being the main activity, there are, of course, so many other fun things to do and explore around the area.

Below I’ve curated a list of everything you might need on your trip to Bandon Dunes, what you should never forget when visiting, what you can leave at home, and some helpful FAQs.

See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

What to Pack for Bandon Dunes – 17 Essentials

  • 1. Travel Cover for Golf Clubs

    Keeping expensive equipment safe is one of the number one priorities, especially when carrying around golf equipment. This travel cover for your golf clubs gives any golfer peace of mind when traveling. It’s lightweight and guaranteed to keep your equipment protected!

    Travel Cover for Golf Clubs

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Cooling Towel

    Maybe you’re standing out on the golf course or taking a day off by the beach. All you need is this amazing towel to cool you off. All you have to do is dip it in water, and it will keep you cool for up to 30-60 minutes. Getting hot again? Dip it back in water and you’re ready to grove! Plus, it’s so easy to roll up and travel with.

    Cooling Towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Wherever you go and wherever you use your phone or credit card, you can always be sure that your online information is secure when you use this VPN. It is always better to be safe than sorry!

    vpn

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 4. Toiletry Bag

    Anyone who travels needs to have a quality toiletry bag with them. This bag is not only quality but also large enough to fit everything you need, even for longer trips. It even hangs up, so you can leave it in whatever bathroom you’re staying in without making a mess.

    Toiletry Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Coastal Oregon is known for getting some serious winds, and if the season is right, it can rain a lot. If it doesn’t rain, the wind is sure to pick up at some point, and this umbrella will certainly protect you. A travel-friendly umbrella is even better in our books like this one is only 12 inches long and under a pound!

    Windproof Travel Umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Extra Golf Balls

    Even though golf balls are available to purchase at the resort, it is always a good idea to bring extra and your own.

    Extra Golf Balls

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. Neck Wallet

    Whether you are taking a plane to Bandon Dunes or not, having a high-quality neck wallet is highly recommended. It is so easy to lose the little (but extremely important) things when traveling, and this way you keep your most valuables super close to you and at easy access.

    Neck Wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Golf Clubs

    How could you take a golf trip without golf clubs! We recommend bringing nice clubs, but not your nicest set while traveling. Although you may be using the travel club cover, it is still possible for things to get a little dinged up while moving around so much. Because Bandon Dunes is known for having such high winds, consider bringing heavy drivers with lower lofts to cut through the wind.

    Golf Clubs

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Portable Charger

    Something you don’t think about needing until you need it. Portable chargers are extra handy, especially when you are lounging on the beach or way out on the golf course and your phone is about to die. This particular charger will last two full charges before you need to recharge it.

    charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Extra Tees

    Having extra tees on a golf course is good for so many things. Not only can you tee up a golf ball, but you can also use it to mark your balls and make divots.

    Extra Tees

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Travel Adapter

    You never know what kind of outlets will be at the hotel or wherever you are staying. You could be staying with your whole family where everyone has a phone and three cameras. It’s never a bad idea to have more places to plug them in.

    Peru power adapter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    I never travel anywhere without packing extra towels, and this one makes everything easier. It’s compact and light, and it seems like it dries within minutes. It’s so versatile and perfect for traveling.

    Blue travel towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Lightweight Day Bag

    Bandon Dunes has many great trails to walk around the property or to the beach. This day bag is perfect to sling over your shoulder and fits everything you need for a day trip. It’s comfortable and breathable for those hotter days.

    Lightweight Day Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Packing Cubes

    Talk about making life easier! These packing cubes are a life saver and a space saver. It’s easier to fit everything you need perfectly into these little cubes where everything is organized and fits right into your suitcase.

    Packing Cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Travel Insurance

    Although Bandon Dunes doesn’t seem like the kind of place you might need travel insurance, I think it’s a must wherever you go. If you have to cancel your reservation, or you or a family member gets injured during the trip, everything is secured with travel insurance. We use TravelInsurance.com to compare plans from top companies in order to find the best one for our family and travel plans.

    Travel Insurance

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

  • 16. Life Straw Water Bottle

    Of course, you need a water bottle, especially out on those hot fields during the summer. Instead of wasting money buying plastic water bottles, bring your own! If you are worried about the quality of the water, worry no more because this water bottle is built-in with its filtration system, ensuring the water you’re drinking is safe and tasty.

    LifeStraw Water Bottle

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Waterproof Phone Case

    Having your phone protected on a beach trip is so important. They are too valuable and expensive to drop in water. I like this phone case because it has a neck strap and a clear screen so I can see any messages and I can even reply without removing my phone from the case.

    Waterproof Phone Case

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to Wear at Bandon Dunes

You’ll likely be spending a good amount of time golfing, hiking, or doing other activities at the resort, so be sure to pack comfortable, active wear. You’ll see most other guests in golf or sport-casual attire during the day. When it’s time for dinner and drinks, feel free to dress up a little. Women may wear a dress or skirt with a nice blouse and men will be comfortable in a polo shirt and slacks. Overall, the common attire at Bandon Dunes is comfortable yet put together.

What should WOMEN wear in Bandon Dunes? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

 

As a woman dressing for Bandon Dunes, it’s essential to dress comfortably and sporty. If you are golfing, be sure to have comfortable and appropriate golf attire. Bandon Dunes is a fine establishment, so keeping it comfortable but looking nice is the goal and the feel of the resort. On those days that are dedicated to sightseeing or beach walking, having a nice pair of jeans, cute sandals, and even a bathing suit (if the weather is right!) is a must.

Whatever season it may be, always remember to pack warm clothes. You’ll want a jacket, long sleeves, and some pants to cover up on the chilly nights and to hide from those coastal mosquitoes!

What should MEN wear in Bandon Dunes? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Men visiting Bandon Dunes will feel most secure in sporty clothing. Bring proper golf attire, never forgetting golf gloves and a proper hat to protect yourself from the sun. After golfing, while enjoying time off, you can keep it semi-casual, but dress nicely for lounging around the resort. Even in the summer and spring, don’t forget to pack for chilly weather.

Whether you are here on business or taking the family for a vacation, you can’t forget those lovely restaurants! So pack your nicer dress clothes to treat your partner (or yourself) to a lovely meal.

Dressing for the Seasons at Bandon Dunes

Winter/Fall – October, November, December, January, February, March

Winter and falls on the Oregon coast tend to be very cold, rainy, and dark. If you end up traveling to Bandon Dunes during these months, layers will be your best friend. A high-quality rain suit will protect you from those harsh rains and winds, and you will always want base layers under all of your other clothes. Never forget rain boots, a warm hat, and wool socks either!

Average fall and winter temperatures on the Oregon coast are highs of mid to low 40’s and the lows getting down to as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Summer/Spring – April, May, June, July, August, September

The summer and springs on the Oregon coast fall very moderately on the warmer weather scale. Not too hot, but not too cold. The wind can pick up on the coast, so make sure to bring a windbreaker. There is a slight (but low) chance of rain during these months. Since Bandon Dunes is right on the coast, after a good game of golf, visiting the beach during the summer months is a must. So don’t forget your sandals and a towel to enjoy the sandy seas. Even though it doesn’t normally get above 80 around these parts, the sun is still blasting, and being on the open golf course means sunscreen is a must!

The average spring and summer temperatures on the Oregon coast are usually mid 70’s to low 80’s, with the lows high 50’s to mid 60’s.

Dressing Appropriately for the Activity – (Click to expand)
Golfing: The main event here at Bandon Dunes is golfing. The golf resort has a strict proper golf attire policy anytime you are on the golf course. Proper golf pants, golf shoes, and a golf shirt are the basics and a requirement. It is your choice, but a recommendation is to bring a nice pair of golf gloves and perhaps a sun hat to protect your head and shoulders from the sun.

Hiking: There are many hiking trails on the property of Bandon Dunes and even around the property as well. These are not very hard trails, and they aren’t very long either, but a good pair of walking shoes are definitely needed. Because these trails are along the ocean, it does tend to get windy, even in the summertime, so pack a lightweight windbreaker along during your hikes.

Sightseeing: Bandon Dunes borders the coast, and much of the hiking trails follow the ocean, where you can commonly see many seabirds and seals. You can even drive just a few minutes to visit a lighthouse where it’s a popular spot for whale watching. A good pair of binoculars will come in so handy, especially if you are lucky enough to catch the parade of whales.

Dining: Bandon Dunes has many wonderful restaurants on-site, some of which you could consider fine dining, in which dressing for the occasion is a must! Pack a nice dress (if you’re a lady) and a casual tux (for the gentlemen) to take a break and have a romantic evening. You don’t have to go all out, but dressing up a little bit is always a treat.

 

What NOT To Bring to Bandon Dunes

  • 1.DO NOT Bring Snow Gear

    Coos County in Oregon has an average of about 0.02 inches of snow a year, so the likelihood that you will need snow gear is almost absolutely none. So while you should pack for rain and wind, there is no need to pack the extra bulky snow gear.

  • 2.DO NOT Bring Your Pets

    Bandon Dunes has a 0 pet policy. However, service animals are allowed in all parts of the resort. They must have the proper papers.

  • 3.DO NOT Bring Your Heavier, Fancier Golf Clubs

    Like I mentioned earlier, when you are packing your golf clubs, don’t pack your heaviest nicest clubs. Think light and pack light.

  • 4.DO NOT Pack Extra Bedding

    Unless you plan on taking a little camping excursion off the property, there is no need to bring any extra pillows, blankets etc. The resort is fully equipped with the nicest fluffiest bedding.

  • 5.DO NOT Pack Your Drone

    Leave it at home. To respect the privacy of guests, the resort has a strict no drone policy. If it is for media reasons, it must be pre-approved by the administrator.

  • 6.DO NOT Bring Heavy Reading Material

    While there is so much to do in and around Bandon Dunes, there really isn’t need to waste space with heavy books.

What NOT To Wear to Bandon Dunes – (Click to expand)
Above, I mentioned that there really is no need for snow gear. Even during the winter months, the area in which Bandon Dunes is located hardly ever gets even the slightest snowfall. Don’t waste your space with bulky snow gear. Otherwise, pack for the season, but during the summer make sure to still bring a jacket and warm clothes.

Out on the golf course, there is a dress code of proper golf attire, no jeans, no casual sneakers or clothes. So keep that in mind when packing for the trip. Casual clothes are permitted in all other parts of the resort.

Travel FAQs and Bandon Dunes Vacation Tips

  • 1. What is the best time of year to go to Bandon Dunes?

    August is on record the hottest month of the year. However, the average high for the month of August is only 67. Since you will be outside most of the time, golfing, hiking, going to the beach, etc. July and August would be the best times to visit. Keep in mind that this will be a busy time of year, and if you like to be a little more secluded, the fall (September, October) is also a wonderful time to go, and the scenery is gorgeous. You just might not be doing any beachgoing at this time.

  • 2. Besides golfing, exactly what else is there to do?

    Golfing is the main attraction here at the golf resort. However, there is fun for the whole family and things to do after golfing.

    • Hiking – The Dune Trail is a 2.4-mile loop where you can explore the dunes and learn about the environment around them, follow the dunes and then enter the forest! There is a pull out 1.3 miles in.
    • The Labyrinth – A meditation maze on the property. It is a replica of one of the floors of the Chartres Cathedral in France. It is a memorial for one of the founders of Bandon Dunes.
    • Fishing – There are lakes on the property that have a bountiful amount of largemouth bass and cutthroat trout. They can be fished as long as you have an Oregon fishing license.
    • Whale Watching – From this property there is access to the Coquille River lighthouse and its beach. During December and January, you can watch the great migration of whales as they head to warmer waters. They return in March and April.
    • Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge – located just an 8-minute drive away, you can visit this sanctuary and see all kinds of seabirds and seals.
    • Spa Trip – The resort has a wonderful spa that includes massages, hot tubs, and saunas for guests to enjoy.
  • 3. Where can we eat?

    Above I mentioned that there are seven restaurants involved with the property. Each one is unique and has something special going on.

    • The Forge – A higher class steakhouse and wine experience.
      Tufted Puffin – Casual eating, with a bar and TV’s.
    • Pacific Grill – Seafood-based, serving breakfast and lunch.
    • Trails End – Indoor and outdoor patio, with American style and seafood. One of the more popular restaurants on the resort, reservations are recommended.
    • McKee’s Pub – The SPOT to hang out after a day of golfing. A scotch bar, with a full beer list and higher-end bar-style food. Chat beside a lovely outdoor fireplace after a long day.
    • The Bunker Bar – The bar below the lodge, this place isn’t for kids. It has high-end cigars and spirits. You can enjoy a game of pool or cards in the early hours of the morning.
    • Sheep Ranch Clubhouse – With an impressive panoramic view of the beautiful property, this is an Irish based restaurant.
  • 4. How much does it cost to stay in Bandon Dunes?

    There are six different places you can stay at Bandon Dunes. Lily Pond, The Inn, The Lodge, Round Lake, The Grove, and Chrome Lake. Prices vary depending on what time of year you are going. The winter is less expensive than the summer months. During the summer (July-September), the cheapest room would be at The Lodge for $290. The most expensive stay would be at The Grove in a 4-bedroom cottage for $1,950. To play on the golf course, it is $275 during the summer months for resort guests.

  • 5. How many golf courses are there on Bandon Dunes?

    There are eight different courses involved with Bandon Dunes.

  • 6. Does Bandon Dunes cover shipping for golf clubs?

    Bandon Dunes works with Ship Sticks. This is a company that ships your golf clubs safely and efficiently right to your destination and back. The fee varies depending on where you are coming from. They also ship internationally. Ship Sticks is encouraged to be used. However, Bandon Dunes also works with FedEx and UPS if you’d rather.

  • 7. Can I get souvenirs?

    There is a gift shop that includes golf gear, coffee table books, gift cards, and more. You can find something for everyone in the family there at the gift shop.