Photo by Alasdair Turner @alasdairturner
LBP has gone to the dogs! Pacific County on Washington’s Coast is the most pet-friendly place to visit in the Pacific Northwest. The Long Beach Peninsula is a doggy nirvana. The ideal dog-friendly travel location. Let your fur-baby discover the fun of 28 miles of wide open beach and 8.5 miles of the Discovery Trail. Make your visit paws-itively perfect by treating yourself and your pet to a comfortable stay at one of our pet-friendly lodging options. After a fun day of frockling on the beach grab a bite to eat at one of our local restaurants with pet-friendly patios. There’s no reason to leave your furry friend at home when you visit the LBP.
THINGS TO DO:
You both deserve time outdoors to recharge and reset. Hit the sand and partake in everyone’s favorite activity: beach-going, take your time walking along the surf while your pup enjoys the beautiful scenery, stormy or sunny. If you’re seeking adventure, our state parks are full of breathtaking ocean views, historic lighthouses and lush forests. For a peaceful walk along the dunes, check out the Discovery Trail, a paved multi-use trail from Lewis & Clark’s westward journey that spans from the north end of Long Beach to the port of Ilwaco with multiple access points.
If you’re planning an extended visit to the LBP (maybe working remotely), there are plenty of “voluntourism” opportunities for dog lovers. Get your steps in by joining the dog walking team at the South Pacific County Humane Society. Make a difference during your stay and give dogs some much needed exercise and love.
Remember to recreate responsibly. Be sure to leash your pet on trails and in parks. Be aware of bikers and pedestrians and don’t let the leash extend across the trail, especially on blind corners.
PET-FRIENDLY HOTELS:
Here on the LBP we know pooch is often part of the family. There are plenty of lodging options to choose from, including hotels, cottages, and RV Parks. Dogs are also welcome at most vacation rentals, Bloomer Estates Vacation Rentals and Pacific Realty offer a variety of pet-friendly homes, cottages and condos. Check out our places to stay page, where you can easily find lodging partners that are pet-friendly by using our amenity filtering tool.
DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS:
In addition to “walk up” and “to-go” options (covered and uncovered), many restaurants welcome dogs in outdoor seating areas. You might find dogs lounging outside restaurants on their pet-friendly patios. The Cove Restaurant has a pet-friendly patio plus a special patio pup menu with complimentary water. Discover dog-friendly eateries on our website.
DOG OF THE MONTH:
Be sure to take plenty of photos of your dog at the beach. Use the hashtag #LBPDOG to share your pup pics. Enter your best image on our Facebook page. See our past winners here!
ADDITIONAL SERVICES:
If you ever have a pet emergency or need new chew toys or supplies during your visit, there are local businesses here to serve you and your four-legged friends. For veterinary services, Oceanside Animal Clinic is a full service clinic from routine checkups to dental care, plus emergency care.
Short of supplies? Head on over to the Dennis Company, a one stop shop for pet accessories, pet beds and carriers, shampoo, toys, food and anything else you might need during your visit.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Dogs should be properly restrained wherever they go, and owners should clean up after their 4-legged companion (yes, even on the beach!). The section of beach between the Seaview and Bolstad beach approaches is closed to motorized vehicles between April 15th and September 15th. However, please be aware that driving is allowed on most of the beach.
There is an 8-foot leash law in Pacific County, additionally within the city limits of Long Beach and Ilwaco as well as in Washington State Parks. Only let your dog off-leash if you have verbal command. Do not let your dogs off-leash if there are cars, horses, or other dogs around. Fines could be imposed if your dog causes trouble or gives a reason for the laws to be enforced. Please do not allow your dog to chase birds or disturb wildlife.
