Want to know where the best dog-friendly beaches are? Well, after all, whether it’s playing fetch, a stroll across sandy shores or a dip in the sea, dogs and the coast go hand in hand.
However not all British beaches are pup-friendly, particularly during the summer months, which can make it tricky to choose where to take your hound on holiday. So we’ve done the hard work for you and sniffed out ten of the best dog-friendly beaches across the UK.
Some boast rock pools and secret coves, others miles-long stretches of sand backed by rugged cliffs and nature reserves – but all with one thing in common – they are dog-friendly year round.
What’s more, we’ve hound-picked the perfect dog-friendly places to stay on the beach or close by – some with exclusive PetsPyjamas offers you won’t find anywhere else. And the best bit? When you book with PetsPyjamas, your dog always stays free.
1. Babbacombe Beach, Devon
Located in Torquay, Devon, Babbacombe Beach is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a quiet dog-friendly beach break. Its turquoise waters and shingle shores offer a peaceful escape for you and your four-legged friend who can frolic on the beach or swim in the sea all year round.
Enjoy scenic walks along the coastline, followed by fabulous dog-friendly dining just a stone’s throw away at the Cary Arms, a luxury English Inn by the sea offering beach suites with breathtaking views out to the sea.
2. Soar Mill Cove, Devon
Soar Mill Cove is one of our favourite, picturesque dog-friendly beaches also nestled in the heart of Devon in a breathtaking rural setting. A secluded sandy haven, it’s surrounded by dramatic cliffs and boasts shallow waters that provide the perfect setting for off-leash paddling.
You’lll find the perfect hound-friendly hotel at Soar Mill Cove hotel and Spa, which overlooks the sea and will give you and your dog the warmest of welcomes.
3. Climping Beach, West Sussex
Climping Beach is a long, sandy beach in a restorative, peaceful setting, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll with your furry friend, even in peak summer. There’s also a dog-welcoming cafe ideally placed just by the sea shore providing snacks and drinks.
After enjoying the beach, book a luxurious, pet-friendly stay at nearby Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa, one of our favourite hotels, which has a direct path from the car park down to the sea and a beautiful setting in glorious parkland for your pet to play.
4. Durdle Door Beach, Dorset
One of the best dog-friendly coves in the country, Durdle Door Beach is a must-visit. This iconic Jurassic Coast beach allows dogs to roam free across its shingle beach.
Book dog-friendly accommodation at the Eastbury Hotel, which is perfectly located between gorgeous countryside, with easy access to the Jurassic coast.
5. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
An expanse of golden sands and luscious pinewoods that create an idyllic environment,, Holkham Beach provides miles and miles of sand provides plenty of room for your pet to burn off some energy, making it a pup’s paradise.
There’s a large car park at Holkham park and you can find the perfect, dog-friendly accommodation at the Globe Inn, Wells-next-the-Sea. The beach at Wells-next-the-Sea is also dog-friendly all year round.
6. Dunwich Beach, Suffolk
Dunwich Beach is a popular beach in Suffolk offering miles of shingle beach backed by gorgeous countryside.
Renowned for its tranquillity, it’s a perfect place for a gentle walk with your four-legged friend before a pit stop at Flora’s Tea Rooms for fish and chips.
For a great night’s sleep, it’s just a short walk away at the nearby Ship Inn, in Dunwich, or its sister hotel the Westleton Crown. You can enjoy a gorgeous walk between the two hotels with your dog which takes in Dunwich woods, Westleton common and the Suffolk coastal path.
7. Newport Sands, Pembrokeshire
Newport Sands in Pembrokeshire is a doggie haven. With a broad, long, sandy beach at the mouth of the River Nevern, your pet can run, play and swim to their heart’s content.
The large beach front is backed by stunning sand dunes, providing an excellent spot for a picnic. Find dog-friendly accommodation nearby at Llys Meddyg, a fabulous restaurant with rooms, set within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
8. Mudeford Beach, Christchurch
Mudeford Beach is another hound-friendly gem that truly earns a spot on this list. With colourful beach huts lining the shores and shallow waters perfect for paddling, it’s a hit with dogs and their owners alike.
Take in wonderful views of the Isle of Wight from the beach which extends all the way to Hengistbury Head where there is a year-round land train, you can also stop for a snack at the Beach House Cafe.
Book nearby, dog-friendly accommodation at the luxury hotel and spa, Chewton Glen, where you can stay with your dog in a stunning tree house suite.
9. Porthcurnick Beach, Cornwall
Porthcurnick Beach in Cornwall, a hidden dog-friendly beach, and home to the famous Hidden Hut Café, is a paradise for dogs. With its sandy shores and rockpools, it prodivdes hours of fun for you and your canine companion. Plus, with the South West Coast Path running along the top of the beach, there are plenty of walks to enjoy.
Check out nearby dog-friendly accommodation at the luxury Tresanton Hotel, a super stylish seaside escape set in the gorgeous village of St Mawes where your pup can even enjoy their own Dog Bar.
10. Cadgwith Cove East, Cornwall
You won’t want to miss Cadgwith Cove in Cornwall. This charming fishing village offers two beaches and the East beach allows dogs year-round. With a background of rugged cliffs, the beach’s unique character provides an excellent location for a day out with your dog.
Book the nearby Pulurrain on the Lizard, a relaxed dog welcoming coastal retreat which is perched on the cliffs on the Lizard Peninsula amongst 12 acres of lush Cornish cliff top gardens.
These dog-friendly beaches offer the ideal setting for a day out, a weekend, or even a week-long retreat with your furry friend. Remember to adhere to any local guidelines and respect wildlife, ensuring these beautiful dog owners and beaches remain accessible to dogs all year round.