I spent a little time checking out all the attractions in and around Bandon, as well as on the way there. Could anyone give me their personal recommendations? What about those boat trips? Are they worth taking? Two different companies--which do you pick? AAA has lots of ideas, but how do you choose? We'll be coming up Hwy 1/101 from CA, and continuing up into southern WA. We plan on returning to CA via I-5. I would appreciate any suggestions. Oh, I'm 45, reasonably active and in good health. My son is 17 and a good sport about most things. Thanks!

A boat trip up the Rogue River: Mail Boats these are out of Gold Beach.

OR

If you're on I-5, the Hellgate Jetboats, out of Grants Pass: Hellgate

I grew up in the Rogue Valley, and there's nothing quite like a "boat trip."

Lisa,
Take the "red" boats at Jerry's up the Rogue River out of Gold Beach, OR. We have been on thre boats several times and you won't regret it. It can get quite warm upriver in the summer after leaving the coastal area so plan on that. You will need to have reservations as the tours fill up quickly in the summer. The water flow down the river will determine the length of the trip that you will be allowed to take at the time you arrive.
Gene

Here is their website http://www.roguejets.com/

If you have a chance and time, a visit to Oregon Caves is always nice.