Dog Beach sits at the south end of Admiral Way South in Edmonds in Snohomish County approximately one mile southwest of downtown Edmonds and 20 miles north of Seattle, forming part of Marina Beach Park's off-leash dog area along Puget Sound shoreline. The beach takes its name from its designation as an off-leash area where dogs are permitted to run free, swim, and play without leash restrictions, managed by the non-profit organization Off-Leash Area Edmonds (OLAE) formed to provide continued support and stewardship. Edmonds developed as a Puget Sound waterfront community with ferry connections to Kingston on the Kitsap Peninsula, creating a city with strong maritime character and extensive beach access including beach sanctuary designations protecting marine ecosystems. The off-leash dog area represents one of the few spots in the region where dogs can run, swim, and dig in the sand to their heart's content, creating a popular destination for dog owners throughout Snohomish County and beyond.
Swimming provides primary activity for canine visitors with dogs able to swim freely in Puget Sound waters, diving from the beach, retrieving toys thrown into the water, and playing in the surf and waves. The beach is fully fenced on land sides with the water side open to Puget Sound allowing dogs to access the shoreline and water without barriers, while containing the off-leash area from adjacent park sections. Digging in the sand entertains dogs who enjoy excavating holes and tunnels in beach areas, creating temporary craters and mounds during their play. Running free allows dogs to exercise off-leash, chase balls and toys, race with other dogs, and explore the beach without restraint restrictions required in most public areas. Socializing creates opportunities for dogs to meet new friends, play with other canines, and interact in the non-threatening pleasant environment while owners connect with fellow dog enthusiasts. Drinking water access provides both Puget Sound water naturally available and freshwater sources for dogs to hydrate during beach visits and exercise. The beach serves a small dedicated community of dog owners who volunteer through OLAE to maintain and improve the facility, organizing work parties, fundraising, and advocacy to preserve the off-leash designation. Views from Dog Beach capture the Olympic Mountains rising across Puget Sound to the west, ferry traffic between Edmonds and Kingston, and maritime activity typical of Edmonds waterfront locations.
Edmonds waterfront dining offers excellent seafood restaurants near Dog Beach and throughout the city. Anthony's HomePort Edmonds serves fresh locally sourced seafood including salmon, halibut, and crab for dinner, happy hour, or casual lunch at Beach Cafe with family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor seating. Arnies Restaurant Edmonds provides consistently delicious seafood with stunning water views and warm service, featuring Pacific Northwest items like calamari and oysters. Salt and Iron in downtown Edmonds features fresh oysters sourced from Taylor Shellfish farms, premium steaks, and extensive seafood options near the Kingston Ferry. MARKET Seafood Eatery prepares best fish and chips, chowder, lobster rolls, crab rolls, and fresh local seafood. The Hook Seafood Broiler celebrates over a decade of success with BBQ short ribs, Northwest salmon, and clam linguini in generous portions.
