Are you looking for a seaside getaway or even just a fun day trip with your BFF - best furry friend? With the warmer weather finally here, many of us are dreaming of a summer trip to the beach, and luckily enough the UK is home to many beautiful coastal destinations.
Not all beaches are dog friendly so we’ve put together this quick video on some of our favourite dog friendly beaches in the South, as well as this handy guide for across the UK, to help you find the pawfect spot for you and your pooch.
What makes for a great dog friendly beach?
We’ve selected beaches that have wide open spaces or surrounding coastal paths to make sure your dog can have plenty of exercise and space to explore. We’ve also included beaches with calm waters and small rock pools so your pooch can cool off safely. Each beach allows dogs on the main section of the beach with minimal restrictions. So what are you waiting for? Get planning your next dog friendly beach day!
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN SOMERSET
Berrow Beach
Berrow Beach stretches for seven miles from Burnham-on-Sea to Brean Down, as the beach is west-facing the views at sunset are worth sticking around for, providing a great selfie opportunity with you and your dog.
Berrow Beach Dog Facts:
- Flat wide sands, backed by sand dunes.
- Large open space to run with your furry friend.
- Dogs can enjoy running off lead but do be aware of the mudflats and avoid getting too close.
Dunster Beach
This beach is on the edge of Exmoor and part of the popular West Somerset Coastal Path, with glorious views of Blue Anchor Bay.
Dunster Beach Dog Facts:
- A wide sand and pebbled beach.
- Great space for a game of fetch.
- Dogs can enjoy running off lead on the beach but must be kept on lead near the beach chalets.
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN CORNWALL
Sandymouth Beach
Sandymouth Beach is located in North Cornwall with coastal walks along the cliff path, it’s a popular choice for dog walkers.
Sandymouth Beach Dog Facts:
- A sandy beach surrounded by high, rock cliffs.
- A lovely spot for a game of frisbee.
- Dogs are welcome year round.
Constantine Bay Beach, Padstow
Constantine Bay is a beautiful Cornish beach just three miles from Padstow. At low tide it connects to the neighbouring beach.
Constantine Bay Beach Dog Facts:
- Glorious golden sands and rock pools for a splash to cool off.
- Great for dogs who love to dig in the sand.
- Dogs are welcome year round.
Check our more dog friendly beaches in Cornwall in our guide.
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN HAMPSHIRE
Mileford on Sea
Mileford on Sea is a village located in New Forest, Hampshire with a long shingle beach backed by low cliffs and lined by colourful, characteristic beach huts.
Mileford on Sea Beach Dog Facts:
- Shingle beach which reveals sand at low tide.
- Ideal for exploring both beach and forest walks.
- Dogs are welcome year round.
Planning a holiday? Discover our favourite dog friendly cottages in the New Forest!
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN WALES
Rhossili Bay
This beach was recently voted Traveller’s Choice in the 2022 Trip Advisor awards and has previously scooped Best Beach in Britain and Third Best in Europe!
Rhossili Bay Beach Dog Facts:
- A three mile stretch of golden, sandy coast.
- Spectacular views.
- Dogs are welcome year round.
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN SCOTLAND
Gairloch Beach
Gairloch Beach is a secluded bay located on the North East Scottish coastline surrounded by mountains. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy stunning Scottish sunsets.
Gairloch Beach Dog Facts:
- A sandy beach, sheltered and secluded with island views.
- Surrounding footpaths to take in more of the Scottish scenery.
- Dogs can enjoy running off lead.
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN DEVON
Babbacombe Beach
Babbacombe Beach, with beautiful, calm, clear waters is located in South Devon near Torquay.
Babbacombe Beach Dog Facts:
- Features a shingle and sand beach.
- The perfect spot for a dip in the sea to cool off.
- A cafe/pub is within walking distance.
- Dogs are welcome year round.
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN DORSET
Studland Beach
Studland Beach stretches over three-and-a-half miles with golden sands backed by low cliffs and wild dunes. You can enjoy views of Old Harry Rocks and Isle of Wight.
Studland Beach Dog Facts:
- Golden sands and wide open space.
- Trails through the sand dunes and surrounding woodlands.
- Dogs are welcome year round, but certain times are required to be kept on a lead.
Highcliffe Castle Beach
Highcliffe Castle Beach is a shingle and sand beach backed by cliffs lined with trees. You can also enjoy views of the Isle of Wight here.
Highcliffe Castle Beach Dog Facts:
- A large, open, sandy beach with calm waters for swimming.
- Accessible by steps or a zig zag slope from the castle grounds.
- Dogs can enjoy running off lead all year round.
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN SUSSEX
West Wittering Beach
This is a privately owned beach dedicated to providing a clean and enjoyable place to relax. Located in Chichester, Sussex, with views of the South Downs and Chichester Harbour.
West Wittering Beach Dog Facts:
- Miles of sand and 20 acres of grass lawn.
- At low tide shallow waters are revealed - perfect for splashing around.
- Dogs are welcome year round, but certain areas are restricted.
Climping Beach
A secluded, stoney beach, Climping Beach is partly a nature reserve and located near Littlehampton. Quieter than neighbouring destinations this beach is great for a relaxing coastal walk.
Climping Beach Dog Facts:
- At low tide a wide sandy beach is revealed.
- Popular with surfers.
- Dogs are welcome year round.
DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES IN KENT
Dumpton Gap
Don’t be fooled by the name! Dumpton Gap is a lovely beach framed by chalk cliffs located halfway between Broadstairs and Ramsgate.
Dumpton Gap Beach Dog Facts:
- A sandy bay stretching 150 metres.
- Pawsome low tide walking routes. Be sure to check the tide times before you set off.
- A dog friendly cafe is nearby for a post-beach treat.
- Dogs are welcome year round with no restrictions.
Whether your dog prefers digging in the sand or leaping through waves, we hope this guide helps you find the pawfect spot for your next beach adventure. But always be sure to check a beach is dog friendly before you go as some beaches may change their rules.
Want a local borrower to take your beach-loving dog for a walk along the shore? Then why not sign up and connect with local borrowers?
