Picture the scene: You and your date are padding along the picturesque coastline of Pacific County. The salty breeze tousles your hair while waves crash against the shore. Romping at the water’s edge, you turn and bend down to them, heart unleashed. Their goofy, toothy grin greets you, and they can’t help but lick your face with slobbery happiness. It is a perfect moment between you and your four-legged, fur-ever love.
Welcome to Pacific County, one of the most dog-friendly regions along the wild coast of Washington. With its stunning natural beauty and pup-friendly atmosphere, we are the perfect dog-date destination for you and your best fuzzy mate.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
Some of the best dates are on the beach, and wide-open spaces await your well-behaved hound. Pacific County boasts 28 miles of pristine coastline, much of which is dog-friendly year-round. Whether your fur-ever love enjoys splashing in the surf or chasing seagulls along the shore, there’s no shortage of fun to be had by you and your mutt on the beach.
Let’s Go for a Walk!
Pacific County offers many scenic hiking trails to explore for the more adventurous doggy date duo. From lush forests to rugged coastal bluffs, there’s a trail for every skill and fitness level. And with your fur-ever love by your side, the journey is as rewarding as the destination.
Image Courtesy of: Madelyn Skillings
Enjoy a 1.9-mile loop around tranquil Black Lake. Sit for a spell and watch colorful kayaks cut the mirrored face of the water. Experience the rolling, coastal scenery shifts on the Discovery Trail, and keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles. Bring your binoculars to the secluded bluffs in Leadbetter Point State Park for glimpses of pelicans, warblers, and chickadees. And get rugged in the velvety woods of Willapa Hills State Park Trail.
Remember to bring a leash and water for your trail buddy, no matter your route, and a Discover Pass for any state park. And if you need to give your fur baby a rinse before your next adventure, visit the Make It Click’s self-service dog wash. Available daily, this covered warm-water wash includes a blow-out station, organic liquids, and a fenced-in area.
Bone Appétit!
After working up an appetite in the gentle wilderness of Pacific County, why not treat yourself and your fur-ever love to a delicious meal at one of the many dog-friendly restaurants in the area? From quaint seaside cafes to cozy pubs with outdoor patios, there’s no shortage of options for a doggy date with your furry friend.
Image Courtesy of: Adrift Hospitality
Visit one of our casual food trucks for al fresco dining with your doggo. Relax at The Cove on the Peninsula Golf Course patio and tuck into their award-winning chowder and mile-high Reuben on marbled rye. Sit outdoors at the historic Shelburne Pub and indulge in their famous Buttermilk Fried Buffalo Oysters. Grab a locally brewed pint on either patio at North Jetty Brewing. Or pop over to the Kraken Kafe for a hot latte with your favorite pal.
If your good boy or girl deserves a goodie after your meal, stop by Romeo’s Pad to peruse their selection of pet-approved treats. With any luck, you might get your paws on one of their sweet potato dog cookies.
Fido-Friendly Accommodations
You’ll never be in the doghouse in Pacific County. Plenty of pet-friendly accommodations are available, ranging from cozy beach cottages to luxurious oceanfront resorts. You and your fur-ever love can relax and unwind in style with comfortable lodging options for every budget.
Image Courtesy of: adoodlenamedmara
Take in the ocean’s wave crescendo from one of the Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort’s patios. A consistent Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice award winner, this 18-acre spot has a welcome pet pack for your pooches on arrival. Or visit the Inn at Discovery Coast, where you can treat your fuzzy buddy to a Puppy Package, complete with a dog bowl and treat.
Sniffing Out New Friends
Pacific County is a haven for dog lovers, and you’ll encounter plenty of fellow pet enthusiasts during your visit. Whether you’re striking up a conversation with a friendly hiker on the trail or bonding over photos of each other’s fur-ever loves, you’re sure to make new friends and connections along the way.
While you’re bonding, visit a few of our local dog celebrities. Meet the mellow yellow Gus of the Tokeland Hotel. Shake paws with Oly at Time Enough Books. Chow down on a plate of Wild Pines Coffee Co.’s Eddie’s Avocado Toast, named after a bicoastal chihuahua. Wag your tail with Theo and Frankie from BOLD. Or pay tribute to the memory of the peninsula’s only ghost-hunting dachshund, Copper, at Colleen’s Coffee House.
Unleash Your Stress
Image Courtesy of: Kelsey Kagan
While on the subject of reasons to visit, there is no shortage of studies showcasing the destressing benefits of spending time with your canine companion. You’re probably dog-tired after a long week of chasing your tail during the corporate grind. What better way to destress than taking your fur-ever love for a doggy date in Pacific County? Feel your ruff day melt away while you spend time with your favorite fuzzball by the coast.
Dog of the Month
Commemorate your fur-ever love with a photo of them scampering by the sea. We love our shaggy models so much that we celebrate the Dog of the Month all year long. Tag them with #LBPDogs for a chance to be featured and a shot at the coveted Dog of the Year crown.
Have a Ball!
Image Courtesy of: Casi Gerig
With its dog-friendly beaches, scenic hiking trails, and welcoming atmosphere, Pacific County is the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation with your fur-ever love. So, grab your pup, pack your bags, and get ready for a tail-wagging good time in Pacific County!
By: Danelle Dodds
Danelle is an international traveler, road tripper, writer, and artist. She firmly believes in testing the limits of word count, mileage, and AYCE sushi.