Saltrock's Top 5 Dog-friendly Beaches - Saltrock

Saltrock's Top 5 Dog-friendly Beaches

Whilst dogs are the perfect holiday companion, many beaches across the UK unfortunately restrict their beach access for dogs in certain months. We know that staycation holidays are going to be very popular this year, so thought we'd try and save you the trouble of a wasted journey.

dog in waters edge

We have highlighted what we believe are the Top 5 Beaches that are the most canine-friendly in Devon. Though, please bear in mind that on these beaches some dog restrictions may still apply.

  1. Anstey’s Cove/Babbacombe Beach

Nearing the popular town of Torquay, Anstey’s Cove is a dog-friendly gem. Situated on the coast path between Torquay and Babbacombe, Anstey’s Cove is a peaceful, shingle beach that is a top-spot for any dog-inclusive staycation this year. As one of the best areas of natural outstanding beauty in the UK, Anstey’s Cove is a great walking location that leads into the wonderful Babbacombe Beach. The beach is great for fishing, swimming/bathing, rock pooling and even canoeing.

Be attentively careful when visiting this beach, however as it is not lifeguarded and is therefore essential that you check tide times before visiting! 

  1. Woolacombe/Putsborough, North Devon

Woolacombe is a beautiful sandy beach that leads into Putsborough and is perfect to visit all year round. It’s famous for a reason, as the beach is absolutely buzzing in summer months yet lovely and quiet in the off seasons. Woolacombe is attentively lifeguarded all year round so it’s a safe bet for family visits.

This 3-mile stretch of beach is segmented into 3 zones, each with different rules for canines: Zone A (no dogs), Zone B (dogs on leads), Zone C (Dogs without leads).

  1. Porthmeor Beach, St. Ives

 Throughout the winter months, this magnificent Cornish beach, the largest in St. Ives, provides plenty of roaming area for the excitable hound. This beach, with its colourful changing huts, is only a stone's throw from the heart of St Ives, which has a cool, arty vibe and lots of cafes and shops to meander about, with a backdrop of artist's studios and the Tate St. Ives gallery.

  1. Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire

 This camper-van cool beach is one of the hottest spots in Wales. Sitting at the front of a row of dunes, this is a sandy beach that’s ideal for dog-walking because there are absolutely no dog restrictions! So, sit back and let your furry friend run rampant for as long as you like. The beach is even lifeguarded during summer months, so you really can relax.

  1. Whitsand Bay, Cornwall

This beach in Cornwall is dog-friendly all year round. Whitsand Bay's beaches stretch for over three miles from Rame Head to Portwrinkle and are regarded one of Cornwall's hidden jewels. These beaches are never crowded since they are reached by steep walkways and steps that wind down between the lush vegetation. Long lengths of gleaming sand are ideal for walking or jogging at low tide, while the steady swell keeps surfers entertained.

What To Bring for Your Dog on the Beach

  • Beach towels
  • A bag for your dogs’ stuff (to keep it separate from yours)
  • Full bottle of water
  • Poo bags
  • Beach tent (for shade if necessary)