Washington’s Evergreen Coast isn’t just a feast for your eyes—it’s a doggone good time, too! Our hidden gem is one of the most dog-friendly spots in the Pacific Northwest. With sandy beaches, lush trails, and cozy cafes, your four-legged buddy has plenty of places to wag their tail in delight. Whether your pooch loves a frolic near the shore or is a seasoned beachcomber, the Evergreen Coast has something for every pup’s personality. We don’t want you barking up the wrong tree, so join the pack as we share the best pooch-approved places for you and your best pal.
Paws in the Sand: Dog-Friendly Beaches
Few things are more joyful than watching a dog racing down an open beach, ears flapping, and paws skimming the sand. When people think of the craggy coastline in the Pacific Northwest, they typically imagine rocky shores. But no list of dog-friendly spots is complete without mentioning the sprawling sands of Washington’s coastline. We have one of the world’s longest sandy beaches on the Long Beach Peninsula! With 28 uninterrupted miles of beach, Washington’s Evergreen Coast is a pooch paradise perfect for zoomies. We have plenty of places to play fetch, dig, or catch a dog-day snooze.
When it’s time to head back to the hound-friendly hotel, stop by Make It Click’s self-service dog wash in downtown Long Beach. The covered, warm-water wash operates daily (when temperatures exceed 40 degrees) and includes organic liquids and a blow-out station.
Trails for Tails: Exploring Dog-Friendly Evergreen Paths
For pups who prefer dirt paths to sandy shores, the Evergreen Coast boasts plenty of dog-friendly spots along its stunning trails. Our scenic hikes showcase our dazzling panoramic views, dense jade forests, and tranquil lakeside serenity. Leash your pup and choose from numerous, easily accessible adventures.
Discovery Trail
Bring your dog on the Discovery Trail and experience the expanse of Long Beach Peninsula. Stretching from Long Beach to Ilwaco, this 8.5-mile paved trail meanders through dunes and forests, offering plenty of sniffs and photo ops. Scamper along landmarks made famous by Lewis & Clark. Sniff out hidden art and discarded whale bones. The Discovery Trail will lead you through sea dunes and forests along a paws-itively breathtaking path.
Cape Disappointment State Park
Despite the name, this state park is anything but disappointing. Cape Disappointment is one of the most stunning dog-friendly spots on the Evergreen Coast. Dogs on leashes can explore the multiple trails that wind through the lush emerald forests alongside panoramic ocean views. Hike to two lighthouses, uncover decaying military bunkers, and pause along jaw-dropping vistas. Wind through forests, saltwater marshes, ocean tidelands, and forests. The dense foliage provides plenty of birdwatching opportunities to get your tail wagging.
Black Lake
Take a peaceful stroll around the almost 2-mile loop of Black Lake. Scamper through the canopy of overhead leaves and walk along the water’s edge. The small lake is stocked with fish, so you’ll see folks fishing in its calm waters. Occasionally, you and your pooch may see paddle boarders slicing the lake’s mirrored surface with colorful boards. This calm stroll is perfect for a mid-morning doggie break.
Leadbetter Point State Park
Leashed dogs will love Leadbetter Point State Park. Extending over 1,700 acres between the Pacific Ocean and Willapa Bay, this park boasts ocean and bay views. It features fewer crowds than Cape Disappointment and is a slice of schnauzer serenity along the Evergreen Coast.
Bone Appétit! Dog-Friendly Dining Spots
After all that exploring, you and your furry friend must be hungry. Luckily, the Evergreen Coast is packed with dog-friendly spots to grab a bite.
Chinook Coffee Company
You might be surprised to learn that one of the most dog-friendly places on the Evergreen Coast is a cozy coffee shop! In addition to their delectable cardamon bread, sticky buns, and luxurious lattes, Chinook Coffee Company serves pup cups and delicious baked dog treats. They love their furry customers as much as their human ones. Roll through their convenient drive-thru window and grab a goodie for you and your pooch.
North Jetty Brewing
If you’re looking for something with more punch, grab a pint with your pooch on North Jetty Brewing’s two dog-friendly patios. This home-brewed pub pours local craft beers, cool cocktails, and dishes delicious bites. Sip a frosty pint of one of their 18 taps of local beer and cider while munching on one of their toasted paninis. No one will mind if you sneak a few bites to your faithful mutt.
The Cove Restaurant
One of our dog-friendly spots offers a specialty dog-centric menu! The Cove Restaurant at the Peninsula Golf Course features a Patio Pup menu with Fido-friendly doggietizers and complimentary water service for your well-behaved dogs. Enjoy the heated patio overlooking the peaceful pines and greens. Warm up with a bowl of their award-winning clam chowder while your best furry pal tucks into their doggy dish.
SALT Pub
Bring your friendly pooch to the SALT Pub in Ilwaco. Known for its craft cocktails, fresh seafood, and port-side patio, this is the perfect dog-friendly spot for a post-adventure bite. Sit on the open-air patio and watch the teeming Port of Ilwaco dock—snack on their signature Willapa Bay steamer clams as the colorful boats bob.
The Wandering Goose
Visit The Wandering Goose with your well-behaved mutt and enjoy some of the most delectable creations along the coast. The Southern-inspired fare will get your tail wagging, and you’ll even find house-made dog treats in the pastry case. Your pooch can make friends with Max, the property’s star golden lab.
Willapa Brewing Company
We love brew pubs, and so do most of our furry friends. Visit Willapa Brewing Company and dig into their scrumptious pizza and always-rotating tap list. This dog-friendly spot across from the Willapa River has a cozy outdoor seating area perfect for your four-legged friends.
Romeo’s Pad
Every dog deserves dessert! Romeo’s Pad in Long Beach is one of our favorite dog-friendly spots on the peninsula. In addition to their endless pet supplies and toys, you’ll find freshly baked doggie treats waiting for your buddy.
The Doghouse: Dog-Friendly Digs
Every pooch has a lazy day, and the Evergreen Coast has plenty of dog-friendly spots to stretch out for a dog nap. Our coast features many cozy cottages, oceanfront properties, and homey hotels that are pet-friendly. Some properties offer dog amenities, including blankets and treats, upon check-in. Curl up with your best mate and listen to the soundtrack of the ocean from one of our many dog-welcoming dwellings.
Paws and Remember: Tips for Enjoying Dog-Friendly Spots Responsibly
While your pup may be thrilled to sniff out all the Evergreen Coast has to offer, a little puppy preparation goes a long way.
Leash Up: Washington’s Evergreen Coast has an 8-foot leash law. Keep your dog on a leash unless in designated off-leash areas, even at dog-friendly spots. Portions of our beaches are drivable, so be mindful of moving vehicles on roads and the beach.
Watch Out for Our Wildlife: Our scenic shores are home to a myriad of wildlife. Keep your dogs and our critters safe by staying a respectable distance from any animals you encounter in the wild.
Pack Essentials: Bring water, waste bags, and a towel for those sandy or muddy escapades.
Mind the Rules: Respect signage and local regulations to ensure dog-friendly spaces stay that way.
Respect the Ocean: Our beautiful coastline can be treacherous. Be mindful of tides, currents, and sneaker waves. Never turn your back – or tail – to the ocean.
Make Fur-ever Memories on Our Dog-Friendly Evergreen Coast
Few places blend puppy love and stunning scenery quite like our shores. Whether chasing waves, exploring trails, or sharing a puppy-approved puptizer, you’ll find plenty of paws-itively good times. Unleash your next adventure with your fur-ever friend along Washington’s Evergreen Coast!
