Are you and your four-legged friend craving sandy paws and salty air? Washington's stunning coastline offers a variety of beaches where both you and your canine companion can enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. From off-leash paradises to leashed adventures, here's your complete guide to dog-friendly beaches along Washington's scenic shores.
Off-Leash Beach Adventures
Double Bluff Beach - Whidbey Island
· Location: Freeland, Whidbey Island
· Accessibility: Easy, with nearby parking
· Off-Leash Policy: Fully off-leash on this two-mile stretch
· Highlights: Double Bluff is the crown jewel of Washington's dog-friendly beaches, offering two miles of wide-open sandy shoreline where your dog can run freely. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Seattle skyline while your pup frolics in the surf. There's even a dog washing station to rinse sandy paws before heading home.
Ocean Shores Dog Beach
· Location: Ocean Shores, Grays Harbor County
· Accessibility: Easy, with multiple access points
· Off-Leash Policy: Off-leash from Taurus Beach approach down to Butter Clam Street
· Highlights: This designated off-leash area lets dogs run free on soft sand and splash in the waves. The remainder of Ocean Shores' six miles of beach is dog-friendly but requires leashes. Perfect for beachcombing and enjoying spectacular sunsets with your furry friend.
Off-Leash Area Edmonds (OLAE)
· Location: Edmonds, just north of Seattle
· Accessibility: Moderate, follow Edmonds Ferry signs and turn west on Dayton Street
· Off-Leash Policy: Fully off-leash beach area
· Highlights: This popular off-leash beach becomes especially lively at dusk when dogs and their families gather to socialize. The mix of sand, rocks, and driftwood provides an exciting sensory experience for curious canines.
Richmond Beach Saltwater Park
· Location: Shoreline, north of Seattle
· Accessibility: Moderate, with a steeper path to beach
· Off-Leash Policy: Seasonal off-leash (November 1 - March 15)
· Highlights: This beach offers seasonal off-leash fun during winter months. Although rockier than some other beaches, the varied terrain provides excellent sniffing opportunities. Note that dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the beach even during off-leash season.
Leashed Beach Explorations
Long Beach Peninsula
· Location: Pacific County
· Accessibility: Multiple easy access points, some ADA-friendly areas
· Off-Leash Policy: Dogs must be on leashes no longer than 8 feet
· Highlights: Explore one of America's longest continuous sandy beaches with your leashed companion. The 28-mile stretch offers endless room to roam, and the hard-packed sand makes for easy walking. The area hosts the annual Kite Festival, creating a colorful backdrop for your beach walks.
Kalaloch Beach
· Location: Olympic National Park
· Accessibility: Moderate, with stairs to the beach
· Off-Leash Policy: Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet
· Highlights: Kalaloch's dramatic driftwood-strewn coastline provides a truly Pacific Northwest experience. The iconic Tree of Life (a tree growing atop an eroded cave) is a must-see natural wonder that's perfectly Instagram-worthy.
Ruby Beach
· Location: Olympic National Park
· Accessibility: Short hike down from the parking lot
· Off-Leash Policy: Dogs must be on a leash
· Highlights: Ruby Beach is famous for its stunning sea stacks and dramatic coastal scenery. The rocky shoreline and tide pools make for fascinating exploration, though you'll want sturdy footwear for both you and your pup.
Fort Ebey State Park
· Location: Whidbey Island, near Oak Harbor
· Accessibility: Easy to moderate
· Off-Leash Policy: Dogs must be on leash
· Highlights: This 645-acre park offers two miles of beautiful saltwater beaches plus 28 miles of hiking trails through wooded areas and sea bluffs. History buffs will appreciate the WWII coastal defense structures, and the spectacular views make the leash requirement worthwhile.
Tips for a Pawfect Beach Day
· Check tide reports: For beaches like Double Bluff, visiting during low tide provides maximum space for play.
· Bring fresh water: Even with the ocean nearby, dogs need fresh drinking water to avoid dehydration and salt consumption.
· Grab some snacks: Keep your pup's energy up with a tasty snack. Also, treats are a great way to ensure that your dog remembers to listen to you when (sadly) it's time to go.
· Pack waste bags: Always clean up after your dog to help keep these beaches pet-friendly for everyone.
· Respect wildlife areas: Watch for signs indicating protected zones and keep your dog away from marine life.
· Consider a long lead: For leashed beaches, a longer lead (within regulation length) can provide more freedom while maintaining control.
· Visit during off-peak times: Early mornings or weekdays often mean fewer crowds and more space for your dog to enjoy.
When to Visit
The Washington coast offers different experiences throughout the year:
· Summer: Warmest weather but busiest beaches
· Fall: Fewer crowds and mild temperatures
· Winter: Storm watching season (and when Richmond Beach allows off-leash access)
· Spring: Wildflowers and moderate crowds
Exploring Washington's coast with your dog creates memories filled with sandy paws, joyful splashes, and salty kisses. These beaches offer everything from wild, untamed shorelines to gentle bays—all welcoming to four-legged adventurers. So grab your leash (or not!), pack some treats, and discover the natural beauty of Washington's dog-friendly beaches together!
Always verify current pet policies before your visit, as regulations may change seasonally or yearly.