free/beach access listings for the PNW

[Cutwater28GG]

We like to anchor out, but we also like to go for a run in the morning. There is something rather fun about going for a run with the dinghy.

However, we find it challenging to find locations where we can get ashore. so much of the PNW waterfront is private.
There are great bays which have roads next to the beach in the san juans but its super unclear what the rights are to land the dinghy for an hour or so.

Does anyone know of a resource that shows the ability to land ashore?

 

[Submariner]

We like to anchor out, but we also like to go for a run in the morning. There is something rather fun about going for a run with the dinghy.

However, we find it challenging to find locations where we can get ashore. so much of the PNW waterfront is private.
There are great bays which have roads next to the beach in the san juans but its super unclear what the rights are to land the dinghy for an hour or so.

Does anyone know of a resource that shows the ability to land ashore?

The marine state parks usually have hiking trails. Prevost Harbor/Reid Harbor. Sucia island. Cornet Bay (Deception Pass state park), as a few examples.

 

[wa7pug]

Depends on where you want to go but Pleasant Harbor has a State Park dock right there and you should be able to park there for a day and there are bookoo hiking and running trails springing out in that area ... running along 101 is not recommended practice but if you can get on the west side of the road there are trails ... Duckabush for one ... and if you go down another few miles down the Hood, there are a couple of other docks you should be able to tie up to and get to Cushman Stairs and such ... I would start with a State Park map or maybe REI might have a State hiking (and running ) map ... I don't even like running to the mail box from the house so I never thought about it but I do see a lot of runners and hikers out driving up. Good luck

 

[gswearin]

The Salish Sea Pilot guides usually list where shore access is for popular areas.

 

[Pandion]

WDFW/DOH maintains a beach access function for mussel/clam/oyster harvest. Scroll to the bottom of the page to input your marine area or county to find public beach access info on the map. Some areas are boat-in-only but many will have access to a public road. Caveat - I have seen areas that are listed as public access on the map but have "No Trespassing" signs posted (likely illegitimate), so be aware of that.

WDFW website: https://wdfw.wa.gov/places-to-go/shellfish-beaches

Here's another website that consolidates the same info: https://www.shellfishtrail.org/beaches

 

[rheimb1]

I find the Waggoner guide very helpful. https://waggonerguide.com/

 

[Cutwater28GG]

Great tips!

 

[Remedy2]

On Buoy has buoys/docks you can rent.

https://www.onbuoy.com/