October 3, 2025

TRAVEL SOUTHERN OREGON COAST NETWORK NEWS

TSOC PARTNERS WITH KISSING ROCK COFFEE FOR OUR FALL "COZY SOUTH COAST" BRAND CAMPAIGN

In September, TSOC launched our Fall advertising campaign, featuring a truly unique collaboration with Kissing Rock Coffee in Gold Beach. Award-winning Kissing Rock enjoys an enthusiast following for their small-batch, organic, air-roasted beans. For the campaign, they created a signature roast inspired by our region dubbed "South Coast Roast." TSOC designed a custom-illustrated, co-branded label, and owners Christine and Andrew Houghtaling have roasted a first run of 1,000 bags. (Now available to purchase online — go ahead, support a local business!) TSOC will feature the special coffee at events and in visiting media and influencer welcome packs.


The Fall campaign targets millennials and Gen Xers who love the outdoors, adventure, local makers, and authentic experiences. We are running ads from Vancouver, WA to Sacramento, as well as in key spots along the Oregon and Northern California coasts. One lucky winner will snag our "Cozy South Coast Getaway" prize, which features a beach bucket full of Kissing Rock merchandise and South Coast Roast coffee, plus adventure gear and a two-night stay at Gold Beach's stylish The Wildflower Inn. Check out the contest here!

LET'S BREW UP SOME IDEAS — COFFEE WITH TSOC IS HERE!

We're excited to introduce a new way to connect — "Coffee with TSOC"! We want to sit down with individuals on the South Coast who are passionate about making a difference. This is your opportunity to share your concerns, offer recommendations, and let us know what's working well. Our first meeting took place in September with the Greater Bandon Association. Our thanks to Bethe Patrick for having "Coffee with TSOC." To learn more or schedule a coffee, contact Julie Miller or Barb Dunham.

TSOC ASSISTS SOUTHWEST OREGON REGIONAL AIRPORT IN ATTRACTING DENVER RESIDENTS TO THE SOUTH COAST

Driven by expanded air services, the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH) saw a greater than 28% rise in passenger traffic in the first eight months of 2025 over the same period in 2024. The Denver route, now with daily flights, grew by 185% year-over-year and nearly triples any previous annual totals. Airport officials highlight OTH's key role in connecting Oregon's South Coast to major travel hubs and supporting regional economic growth.


TSOC is helping drive this growth by transforming high-performing coastal images from Facebook into targeted ads. These ads are aimed at audiences in Denver and the surrounding area near the Denver International Airport. The campaign has reached more than 75K potential visitors and engaged more than 2.5K. We've generated nearly 350 new e-newsletter subscribers, each representing a Denver-area traveler now connected to Southern Oregon Coast inspiration and trip-planning resources.

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMPLETES ACCESSIBILITY AND SAFETY UPGRADES IN BROOKINGS

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) recently completed a major project in Brookings that improved access for pedestrians and bicyclists, including ADA-compliant and safety features. This enhancement to Brookings’ in-town paved trail system creates a seamless connection to Harris Beach State Park and extends along the historic "Old Highway 101" all the way to Dawson Road.


The project brought several key upgrades, including new sidewalks, ADA-compliant curb ramps, an extended bike lane, and a pedestrian crossing enhanced with flashing lights. Construction began in March 2025 and reached completion in September. ODOT led the initiative in partnership with the City of Brookings, ensuring a collaborative effort to enhance accessibility and safety.

REGISTER FOR WHY GUIDES


Travel Oregon's "Why Guides Program" is open for registration to tour operators, guides, and outfitters until October 10. This no-cost program aims to strengthen guided tour experiences in Oregon through industry engagement, education, and prioritized marketing. Participants receive exclusive access to training, marketing programs, and networking opportunities, with an average support value exceeding $2500.


To join, businesses must primarily offer Oregon-based guided experiences in natural landscapes or transport visitors between multiple assets, hold all necessary permits and insurance, ensure guides have relevant safety certifications, and have a claimed or pending Google Business Profile. The program recognizes and promotes these operators as key state tourism assets.

HOLIDAY MARKETING MADE SIMPLE: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE FOR THE SEASON


The holiday season is one of the most important—and profitable—times of the year for small businesses. But without a clear marketing plan, it’s easy to get lost in the holiday hustle and miss out on opportunities to boost sales, grow your audience, and strengthen customer loyalty.


Michele Bubert of Oregon Coast VIP Marketing & Websites recently shared an inspiring article that proves you don’t need a huge budget or a large team to make this holiday season a success. All you need is a solid game plan.


Check out the full article for a straightforward, easy-to-follow holiday marketing checklist that will help you shine this season! Don't wait until December.

"The Accessible Kayak Launch in Winchester Bay has been a game-changer for our community. This project reflects the power of partnerships and investment in outdoor recreation—not only does it create inclusive access, but it also strengthens local engagement and supports the economic vitality of Douglas County."

Jody Wilson, Douglas County Coastal Events Coordinator


Accessible Kayak Launch in Winchester Bay funded by TSOC

Check out these recently published articles on the Travel Southern Oregon Coast website.


Next, we are working on a story for our consumer website about "Holiday Lights Up and Down the Southern Oregon Coast." Do you have recommendations? Fill out our survey before October 31.

UPCOMING INDUSTRY EVENTS

UPCOMING GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Amy Bailey-Ko-Kwel Casino Resort Christine Michalek-Big Wheel General Store • Dave Lacey-Oregon Coast Visitors Association • Janice Langlinais-Coos Bay-North Bend-Charleston Visitor & Convention Bureau • Joe Benetti-Coos Bay Mayor • John Sweet-Coos County Commissioner • Marie Simonds-Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation • Michael Chupka-Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Miles Phillips-Oregon State University • Miranda Plagge-Oregon's Wild Rivers Coast • Rodger Craddock-Southwest Oregon Regional Airport • Rosa Solano - Reedsport Tourism Manager

Travel Southern Oregon Coast Network

541-297-2821

julie@oscrtn.com

Industry - Travel Southern Oregon Coast

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PHOTO CREDITS: Airport Boarding courtesy of Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH); ODOT Project courtesy of ODOT; Kayakers by Eric Urdahl