Ocean Shores is one of the most dog-friendly beach towns on the Washington coast. With miles of wide, hard-packed beach where leashed dogs are welcome, a network of canal paths ideal for walking, and a growing number of pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, Ocean Shores is the perfect place to bring your four-legged travel companion.
Jump to: Pet-friendly hotels · Dog-friendly restaurants · Dog wash, daycare & pet shops
Dogs on the Beach at Ocean Shores
The good news: dogs are allowed on the beach at Ocean Shores, and the beach is massive — over six miles of open Pacific coastline with firm sand perfect for running. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times on the beach, per Ocean Shores city ordinance. Cleaning up after your pet is required and expected.
Tips for bringing your dog to the beach:
- Rinse your dog after beach visits — salt and sand can irritate skin. Many pet-friendly hotels have outdoor rinse stations.
- Watch for logs and debris — drift logs are common on the Washington coast and can shift unexpectedly in surf.
- Provide plenty of fresh water — dogs will be tempted to drink salt water; bring a collapsible bowl and fresh water from home or your hotel.
- Watch the waves — the Pacific at Ocean Shores has a strong shore break. Keep smaller dogs away from the wave line.
Pet-Friendly Hotels in Ocean Shores
Ocean Shores has more pet-friendly lodging than most towns on the Washington coast, from beachfront hotels to cottages and cabins. The properties below welcome dogs. Pet fees, size limits and the number of pets allowed vary by property and by room, so call ahead to confirm the current pet policy before you book.
Pet-Friendly Hotels and Motels
- Canterbury Inn — condominium-style rooms on the beach, good for families and their dogs
- Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper — on Ocean Shores Blvd. NW
- Days Inn by Wyndham — a casual, pet-friendly stay just inside Ocean Shores
- Grey Gull Hotel — beachfront condo hotel with views of the Pacific
- Hotel Mar Vista — on Ocean Shores Blvd. NW
- Lighthouse Suites Inn — on Damon Road
- Polynesian Resort — resort on Ocean Shores Blvd. NW
- Wanderlust Inn — boutique hotel one block from the beach
Pet-Friendly Condos, Cottages and Cabins
- Ocean Surf Condominiums — condo units on Cuddy Court
- Pacific Surf Condominiums — condos on Ocean Shores Blvd. NW
- Sea Breeze Cottages — beach-themed cottages a quick walk from the beach
- Oyhut Bay Seaside Village — fully furnished cottage rentals in a walkable village
- Tidal House — restored vintage A-frames
- Moss Landing Cabins — cabins in a quieter, more secluded setting
When booking a pet-friendly hotel in Ocean Shores, ask about:
- Pet fees (per night or flat fee)
- Maximum pet weight or breed restrictions
- How many pets are allowed per room
- Whether the room has direct outdoor access
- Availability of grassy areas for bathroom breaks
- Proximity to the beach trail or canal paths
See every pet-friendly hotel and motel listing, browse all Ocean Shores hotels, or compare current rates at local properties on Stay Local.
Dog-Friendly Activities in Ocean Shores
Walk the Canal System
Ocean Shores has a unique network of canals winding through the city, connecting several freshwater lakes. The paved and gravel paths along the canals make for excellent dog walks — flat, scenic, and often less crowded than the beach. You’re likely to spot herons, ducks, and osprey along the way.
Explore the North Jetty Area
The North Jetty at the mouth of Grays Harbor is a great spot for a long walk with your dog. The area around the jetty has wide open spaces, views of the shipping channel, and opportunities to watch seals and shorebirds. Keep dogs leashed in this area — the rocks can be slippery and the current in the channel is strong.
Ocean Shores Interpretive Center Trails
The Ocean Shores Interpretive Center at the North Jetty has walking paths through dune habitat with interpretive signs about coastal ecology. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, and the flat terrain makes it accessible for dogs of all ages and sizes.
North Bay Park
North Bay Park is a peaceful spot for a picnic or a game of fetch. Keep your dog leashed and pack out what you bring in. See all of Ocean Shores’ city parks.
Weatherwax Trail at Duck Lake
For a break from the wind, the Weatherwax Trail is a secluded walk through the coastal forest along Duck Lake. It is a good option for dogs that prefer trails to surf.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Patios
Several restaurants in Ocean Shores have outdoor seating where well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome at the discretion of the establishment. Patio seating is seasonal and policies change, so always ask before you settle in. Places dog owners like:
- Bennett’s Fish Shack — casual seafood with a pet-welcoming patio
- Ocean Beach Roasters & Bistro — cozy café with open-air seating and water bowls for pups
- Galway Bay Irish Restaurant & Pub — some outdoor seating and a relaxed atmosphere
- Ocean Pours Taproom — laid-back patio for a beer with friends
- Corks and Taps — patio seating for wine and craft beer
- Oyhut Bay Grill — plaza seating and elevated comfort food at Oyhut Bay
- The Garage — casual food, drinks and beach-town company
The Ocean Shores beachfront strip is particularly walkable with dogs, and many shops allow leashed pets inside. For more places to eat, see Ocean Shores restaurants and dining.
Dog Wash, Daycare and Pet-Friendly Shops
Ocean Shores has the services you need when the beach comes home with your dog:
- Dirty Dogs Dog Wash — the quick fix for a dog covered in sand after a beach day
- Barkin’ Around the Clock — doggy daycare for when you need a few hours on your own
- Jip & Gwenners Pet Boutique — treats, toys and gear for the pup (and maybe something for you)
- Buck Electric Ace Hardware — aisles of pet supplies, from food to leashes
- Too Cool Sportswear — souvenir dog-wear and dog-themed prints
Find grooming, boarding and more in All about the Pets.
What to Pack for a Dog-Friendly Ocean Shores Trip
- 6-foot leash (required on the beach)
- Poop bags — pack more than you think you need
- Collapsible water bowl and fresh water
- Dog first aid kit
- Towels for post-beach rinse-down
- Dog-safe sunscreen for short-haired breeds
- Proof of vaccinations (some hotels require this)
- Your dog’s regular food — local stores carry basic brands but specialty food may be harder to find
Plan Your Dog-Friendly Ocean Shores Getaway
Ocean Shores is truly one of Washington’s best beach destinations for dog owners. The combination of a long, accessible beach, a walkable canal system, and a welcoming community makes it easy to include your pet in every part of the trip. Start with our list of pet-friendly hotels in Ocean Shores, and check out our activities page for more things to do during your visit.
