New to Oly, where can I play in the water? (Olympia: college, campgrounds)

[tracydyer]

I am moving to Olympia next week and absolutely LOVE anything associated with the ocean and salt water life. I have dreams about the ocean! Where can I take my two dogs to walk and play in the sound, and observe sea things like crabs and starfish? Are there any public beaches in Olympia?

Thank you,

Tracy

[sean98125]

Olympia, Dogs, Beaches

[Idunn]

Day to day you'll probably want something closer, but the west (Pacific) side of Olympic National Park would be great. Not sure about the Park Service's opinion of dogs. Otherwise, aside from a rather long drive, you could surely find a spot to match your desire. Some beaches are readily accessible from the highway, others quite remote. Quite different from the various arms of Puget Sound.

[sean98125]

Pets are prohibited in the backcountry and along all hiking trails in the National Parks in Washington State. They are prohibited on the National Park beaches. You can have them in campgrounds and picnic areas as long as they are on a leash that is 6 feet long or shorter.

Dogs are permitted at Ocean Shores and Long Beach, however and other beaches where you can drive on the sand.

[Seattletony]

Ocean Shores now!ol Edomonds, Golden Gardens, Aki come on poeple take advantage.

[Ira500]

There's a great beach in Olympia just behind the Evergreen State College on Eld Inlet, it's 3300 feet of waterfront, it's beautiful, only accessible via a short walk through the woods from the campus, and usually quite empty.