If you're looking for a super simple family-friendly/dog-friendly hike with big ocean views, then this hike along the Pacific Northwest Trail in Deception Pass State Park is for you.
Starting from the Rosario Beach parking lot, the trail heads out past a large recreation area for families and into a wooded area leading up to Rosario Head.
At this point in the trail there are beaches on either side that provide a great opportunity to explore some tidal pools. If you choose to jump off trail to do this, be sure to stick to the path following the yellow rope or you might cause harm to some of the many creatures that call this place home.
If you stick to the trail, there are several routes to choose from once you make it to the tree line. Don't worry about choosing the wrong one, each trail loops back down toward the recreation area. After following the trail for a minute or two the tree line breaks open into wide panoramic views of the Northwest Pass and the Urchin Rocks.
Great hike so far right? When you loop back down you can choose to end the hike there or continue on to the Pacific NW Trail along Bowman's Bay for a 2 mile out and back jaunt.