Mingus Park Pool

It’s a beautiful, sunny October day on the Oregon coast, and after a stroll along the beach in Bandon, OR, it’s time for a swim. About 15 minutes north, I found the Coos Bay City Municipal Pool.

Set in the city park, surrounded by a central lake and arboretum, the location is absolutely idyllic—especially with the sun shining after the misty starts of the past few days. The pool is outdoor, which I didn’t expect in Oregon in October, but the website assured me it’s heated year-round.

Pulled into the car park, which offers a great view of the pool basking in the sunlight. For $5, it’s fantastic value. The teenage lifeguard was multitasking between taking bookings at a folding table and keeping watch — this kid has the perfect job for a sunny day like this! I think the English accent suprised him but paid, changed and out onto the pool deck. Pick a lane and make a start.

Knocked out a straight 2,000-yard thoroughly enjoyable swim, spurred on by the spectacular sunny weather and views of golden autumn leaves surrounding the pool. Swimming outdoors in this setting, especially this late in the year is definitly good for the soul!

Coos Bay has really really impressed me — I seem to have accidentally signed up for the weekly city newsletter, so now I get updates from the mayor every Friday!

Finished off the day heading north up the coast with an unplanned stop at Sea Lion Caves. No sea lions this time, but at least they gave us a discount for a return visit!