Jim Billings was born and raised near Port Orford. A small business owner for many years, Billings is also a longtime community volunteer. He’s lent his time to Oregon State Parks’ Whale Watching Spoken Here program, the Port Orford and North Curry Chamber of Commerce, and the new visitor and marine education center at Battle Rock Park. Here are a few of Jim’s favorite things to do on the South Coast.
Fishing: I like to go ocean fishing for bottom fish in Winchester Bay. On the Elk and Sixes rivers located just north of Port Orford, I enjoy winter salmon and steelhead fishing. Garrison Lake, a shallow coastal lake just a stone’s throw from the Pacific Ocean and in the city limits of Port Orford, is my favorite place to fish for trout and bass. Floras Lake, a little bit south of Langlois, is another good bass and trout spot.
Paradise Café: This Port Orford café is my favorite place for breakfast — giant pancakes and the early special.
Flying Gull Restaurant & Lounge: A good place for breakfast and lunch in Brookings is the Flying Gull restaurant.
Whale watching: Nine months of the year I enjoy watching the gray whales in the bay at Battle Rock Park at the south end of Port Orford.
Crazy Norwegian’s Fish & Chips: I enjoy eating fish and chips at this world-famous destination in Port Orford.
Langlois Market: I love to stop here and grab one of their specialty hot dogs for lunch.
La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant: A great spot to eat after exploring Old Town Bandon. Try the Fiesta Poppers!
Bonnie’s Homestyle Seafood & Grill: Across from Battle Rock Park near Port Orford, Bonnie’s is known for its great chili.
Clamming: I go clam digging in the Charleston and Coos Bay areas for razor clams, gaper clams and steamers.
Double D’s Café: This Gold Beach breakfast spot has it all. Go for the Double D’s favorite — three eggs, three bacon strips and three sausage links.
Photo: South of Natural Bridges Viewpoint, Samuel H. Boardman State Park