Registration is now open for the 2026 Travel Southern Oregon Coast Network Conference, and we're thrilled to invite you to join us from Monday, February 23, to Tuesday, February 24.

This year, we're heading to the beautiful Ko-Kwel Casino Resort Coos Bay (formerly the Mill Casino) in North Bend for two days of actionable insights, strategic networking, and regional collaboration.

WHAT YOU WILL EXPLORE

• New for 2026: The South Coast Whale Tank! It's an interactive, showcase of innovative projects from across our region. TSOC will award prizes for the best pitches. (See the article below for more information and how to apply.)
• Small Business Growth & Finance: Discover free, confidential advising services for business planning and branding, plus financial literacy tools for long-term success.
• Leveling Up with AI & Technology: Explore how artificial intelligence is transforming guest communication, bookings, and content creation.
• Inclusive Tourism: Get an early look at the new Accessibility Guidebook, designed to help businesses and destinations enhance access, representation, and belonging for all visitors and residents.
• Regional Coordination: Engage in interactive sessions to strengthen inter-regional tools for managing visitor journeys and crisis scenarios.
• Trail Stewardship: Learn about the mission of Trailkeepers of Oregon and how community-engaged trail work fosters meaningful outdoor experiences.

Spaces are limited, and this event is expected to sell out. Secure your spot today!

TSOC NETWORK CONFERENCE ACCOMMODATIONS

We have secured a special rate at our host hotel, the Ko-Kwel Casino Resort Coos Bay in North Bend, Oregon. To book your room online:

1. Go to www.kokwelresorts.com
2. Select “Book Here”
3. Use the Group sign-in with code 11594

For the 2026 TSOC Network Conference, we are thrilled to announce the South Coast Whale Tank, a brand new, high-energy session for DMOs, Main Street Organizations, and Government Agencies!

What is it? The South Coast Whale Tank is an interactive, fast-paced showcase of innovative projects from across our region. Presenters will pitch their ideas live to a panel of respected regional and philanthropic leaders, receive constructive feedback, and compete for audience votes.

Why participate? This is your chance to see creativity in action, discover new initiatives, and even secure funding to advance your project. Top pitches will be awarded: 1st Place: $5,000, 2nd Place: $2,000, and 3rd Place: $1,000.

Whether you're pitching or cheering from the audience, the Whale Tank is your opportunity to witness innovation and help shape the future of the Southern Oregon Coast. Application deadline is January 15, 2026.

Oregon’s Wild Rivers Coast (OWRC) has announced the official launch of its brand-new website! The new site serves as their most comprehensive tool yet for connecting travelers, locals, and partners to the many experiences that make the region so extraordinary. From hidden trails and pet-friendly adventures to community events and scenic drives, visitors can now find everything they need to plan their next trip with ease.

The redesigned website highlights the beauty, accessibility, and diversity of the Curry coast — and reflects their continued commitment to sustainable tourism, community collaboration, and year-round economic growth.

OWRC invites you to explore the new site, share it with your audiences, guests, and community members, and follow and tag them on social media to help spread the word.

Oregon Main Street recently announced its 2025 “Excellence on Main” award winners, celebrating outstanding achievements, initiatives, and individuals who contribute to the revitalization of historic downtowns across Oregon.

Among the winners were many South Coast businesses, organizations, and individuals. Wildflour Public House in North Bend was named Business of the Year, Oregon Main Street's highest honor. It also recognized Highwater Café & Market and Highwater Offices in Reedsport for Economic Vitality, and honored the North Bend Main Street Community Art Walk as the Outstanding Promotional Event. Additionally, Mayor Linda McCollum of Reedsport Main Street and Barb Dunham of North Bend Main Street received certificates for Standout Volunteers in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to their communities.

Oregon Main Street is a program of Oregon Heritage under the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The organization strengthens community networks, supports local economies, and creates vibrant places for workers, visitors, and residents. Learn more about its impact on their website.

In 2024, travel-related spending generated nearly 6.1K jobs on the Southern Oregon Coast.

Data per Travel Oregon's "The Economic Impact of Travel" report.