Dog Friendly Beaches on the Oregon Coast
Published: 06/30/2016  Updated: 08/13/2019
Gracie takes in the sights, sounds and smells in Cannon Beach.
Gracie takes in the sights, sounds and smells in Cannon Beach.  Photo by Gary Hayes

Coast Explorer publisher Gary Hayes answers questions from travelers as Travel Oregon's "Ask Oregon" expert for the Oregon Coast.

Question:
What beaches are dog friendly on the Oregon Coast?

Answer:
In general, most of Oregon's beaches are dog friendly. While some restrictions may apply due to local ordinances or in some protected areas, off leash dogs are allowed on most beaches as long as under "direct control" of the owner as described by Oregon State law. This means the dog's handler must remain within sight of the dog and the dog must respond to voice commands, otherwise your pet must remain on leash. Other common sense rules apply according to state law. Handlers must prevent their animals from harassing people, wildlife and other domestic animals; and you are responsible for the removal of the animal's waste while in the ocean shore state recreation area. Owners are required to carry a leash and leash their dog at the request of local authorities including State Parks or US Fish and Wildlife officials.

If not otherwise indicated by signage, as long as your dog is well behaved, does not approach other people or dogs, does not chase birds, approach wildlife or other domestic animals, you can enjoy most Oregon beaches off-leash with your dog.

I almost always travel the coast with my girl Gracie and we not only enjoy the beaches, but also find many dog-friendly restaurants with outdoor dining areas and dog-related or dog-friendly businesses. There can't be a better destination for dogs than the Oregon Coast.

You can submit your question for the Ask Oregon program at: traveloregon.com/ask-oregon
Dog Friendly Beaches on the Oregon Coast