The Oregon coastline—all 363 miles of it—is completely open and accessible to the public. Even better, all the beaches are pet friendly unless otherwise posted.
With a lovely collection of small towns and many establishments welcoming pets, the most difficult part of planning your pet friendly Oregon Coast getaway is deciding where to go! To help you along, we’ve done some paws-on-the-ground research at three of our favorite pet friendly spots along the coast.
Road Trip On The Pet Friendly Oregon Coast
Manzanita
Less than a two-hour drive from Portland, Manzanita is one of the more popular destinations on the Oregon Coast. People are drawn by its proximity and beauty. But it’s still less crowded than nearby Cannon Beach and Seaside!
Manzanita offers outdoor activities galore. From hiking, surfing, and paddling to strolling the seven miles of pet friendly beach. Time your visit during whale watching season and hike to the top of Neahkahnie Mountain for a chance to spot gray whales breaching. Don’t forget your binoculars!
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Just down the road you’ll find Oswald West State Park, named for the man who spurred the idea of the People’s Coast. This is a popular spot for surfers. And the cove is ideal for a picnic if you want to enjoy the sun and watch others catch some waves.
Or, if want to experience the water, but the cold temperatures of the Pacific have you thinking twice, check out SUP Manzanita. You can take paddleboard lessons or tour of the calmer waters of the Nehalem River Valley. Be sure to pack a life jacket for your pup!
Pet Friendly Eats In Manzanita
Stop by the Winery at Manzanita to sip on small-batch produced wines while your pup plays with Pinot, the owner’s friendly black lab. The winery serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well.
Or opt for the Sand Dune Pub, serving a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and local seafood dishes on the pet friendly patio.
Where To Stay In Manzanita With Pets
Camp at nearby Nehalem Bay State Park, or choose one of the many pet friendly lodging options in Manzanita.
Yachats
Another option on the pet friendly Oregon Coast is Yachats (pronounced “yah-hots”). With a population of just over 600, this darling village packs plenty of entertainment into its tiny size. Whether you prefer exploring tide pools or enjoying the view from the highest point on the Oregon Coast, Yachats is the perfect choice for a relaxing beach excursion.
For great hiking options, drive two miles down the road to the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. Pick up a $5 day pass or pull out your Northwest Forest Pass and hit the the 6.5 miles of pet friendly trails to the Cape Perpetua stone shelter. Constructed in the 1930s, it sits 800 feet above the raging water. The views from here are hypnotic!
Back at the visitor’s center, be sure to catch the mesmerizing shows staring the Pacific Ocean at Devil’s Churn, Thor’s Well, and the Spouting Horn at Cook’s Chasm. For a more low-key walk, try the 804 trail that connects seven miles of beach between Yachats and Waldport.
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Pet Friendly Eats In Yachats
Yachats has some tasty dining spots to whet your appetite. Start the day by grabbing a coffee and a pastry at the Green Salmon, one of the best little cafés on the entire Oregon Coast. All of their teas and coffee are fair trade and organic, featuring some seriously creative brews like the Kashmir Express flavored with cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg.
This is Oregon, so of course there is a local brewery. Throw down a pint (or two) at Yachats Brewing, a sustainable brewery that celebrates the beauty and culture of Yachats and welcome pets on the outdoor patio.
Where To Stay in Yachats With Pets
Several camping options are available in the area, though none directly in town. Camping is available at Cape Perpetua for close access to trails. If you want to stay right in the center of activity, consider The Fireside, which is located on the 804 trail.
Pacific City
Hiking? Check. Iconic haystack rock perfect for a sunset Instagram photo of your dog? Of course. Pet friendly Oregon Coast brewery pouring delicious pints? Absolutely. Giant sand dune to hike up and sprint down? Most definitely.
Pacific City, though popular, still retains its peaceful atmosphere. If you enjoy cycling along idyllic country roads bring your bike (and dog trailer!) and take a cruise along the Three Capes Scenic loop. This route meanders along the north Oregon coast, continues past Cape Lookout and Cape Meares State Parks, and passes through several small towns.
Hike or run along the beach through Cape Kiwanda Natural Area and Bob Straub State Park to the tip of Nestucca Spit. Stop to inspect some tide pools or try to spot the dory boats that bring in the catch of the day. Finish strong with a hike up Cape Kiwanda sand dune. The expansive view of the village and the coastline are definitely worth the effort. Then race your dog to the bottom for a real thrill!
Pet Friendly Eats In Pacific City
Quench your appetite and thirst at Pelican Brewing, one of the most iconic breweries in Oregon. Here you can sit outside with your pup and enjoy the views of haystack rock and the Pacific Ocean. Go during an off-time, as waits for a table can be extensive during high season. If you like Mexican food, don’t miss Ben & Jeff’s, where tacos and burritos can be enjoyed on the patio or taken to go and savored on the beach.
Where To Stay in Pacific City With Pets
Plenty of camping options exist in Pacific City, including Bob Straub State Park and Cape Kiwanda Natural Area. Otherwise opt for the Surf & Sand Inn, an affordable accommodation located within walking distance to the beach, dining, and the Nestucca River.
Plan Your Trip
With these ideas for your pet friendly Oregon Coast road trip, all that’s left to do is pick a time to visit!
Tip: Schedule your vacation during the middle of the week in the summer. Or wait until September when the crowds thin out.