Ocean Shores activity guide
Dogs at the Beach
Beach walks with your dog, plus the designated off-leash stretch between Taurus Boulevard and Butterclam Street.
Plan your outing
- Best for
- Guests exploring the coast with a dog
- Allow
- Start with a short walk and adjust to your dog’s comfort
- Best time
- Check weather, tides, and posted signs before each visit
- Plan ahead
- Bring a leash, waste bags, fresh water, and a towel
Start with a leashed beach walk
The city’s beach guidance says pets must be physically controlled with a leash no longer than eight feet, or otherwise physically restrained, in state park areas. Ocean Shores beaches fall under Washington State Parks jurisdiction. Keep your dog leashed unless you are within the designated off-leash area and current signs allow it.
Where dogs can go off-leash
Dog Beach: Taurus Boulevard to approximately Butterclam Street. Dashed lines indicate endpoint alignment, not access routes. This is an orientation map; follow current signs and posted boundaries.
The city identifies one designated off-leash beach area between Taurus Boulevard and Butterclam Street. Check the signs and boundaries when you arrive; do not assume the rest of the beach, Damon Point, or a wildlife area is off-leash.
Only let your dog loose when you can keep them close and reliably call them back. Give other visitors, dogs, and wildlife plenty of space. Watch for beach traffic, surf, and driftwood.
Pack for an easy outing
- Leash and waste bags; pick up and pack out waste.
- Fresh drinking water and a bowl.
- A towel for sandy paws before returning to the chalet.
- Layers for you and a shorter backup plan if conditions turn unpleasant.
Check the city’s current beach and pet rules before visiting. Our beach access guide covers getting to the shore; the Guest Guide covers staying at Tidal House with a dog.
Plan with current sources
Hours, prices, access, and regulations can change. Confirm the details for your visit with these sources.
Make Tidal House your home base