20 best dog-friendly beaches in Devon

Discover our favourite dog-friendly beaches in Devon

Devon is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, and what better way to enjoy them than with your furry friend by your side? If you're planning a UK trip to Devon with your pooch and want to hit the beach together, look no further. Here's a list of the best dog-friendly beaches in both North and South Devon, many of which welcome canine companions all year round.

Check out our dog-friendly holidays in the UK and our Devon lodges and holiday parks to find the pawfect place to stay with your pup!

Dog-friendly beaches in North Devon:

In North Devon, our favourite dog-friendly beaches are characterised by their wide expanses of golden sand and rugged cliffs, providing plenty of space for dogs to roam and play freely. These beaches are often secluded and unspoiled, offering a sense of tranquility and privacy for both dogs and their owners to enjoy. In North Devon, you can expect to find long stretches of coastline where dogs are welcome year-round, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing beach experience with their four-legged friends.

Lynmouth Beach

Lynmouth Beach is a picturesque pebble beach in Lynmouth Bay, nestled between the hills of Exmoor and the Bristol Channel. Dogs are welcome to roam freely here in every season, making it a great spot for a winter walk or a summer stroll. For longer walks, the South West Coast Path and Exmoor National Park are right on your doorstep.

Postcode: EX35 6EN
Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round

Stay nearby: Lynmouth Holiday Retreat - dog-friendly holiday homes and hot tub lodges, 10 minutes' drive from Lynmouth Beach

Westward Ho! Beach

Westward Ho! Beach is a wide, sandy beach that stretches for miles and is perfect for dogs who love to run and play. With plenty of space to explore and clear waters to splash in, it's a firm favorite among four-legged friends. The beach is backed by the seaside town of Westward Ho! where you can make the most of dog-friendly cafes and pubs.

Tip: Sarah from Hoseasons, who has been to this beach with a dog, says "there's usually a Hocking's ice cream van at Westward Ho! and their vanilla flavour is the best, perfect for a small post-beach pup cup as well as for a human treat!"

Postcode: EX39 1LH
Restrictions: Seasonal restrictions are in place from May-September, where dogs are not allowed on the central and southern sections of the beach. Dogs are still welcome on the northern end of the beach, and the entire beach is dog-friendly for the rest of the year

Putsborough Sands

Putsborough Sands is another top choice for dog owners, with its scenic dunes and pristine sands. The beach stretches for three miles, all the way from Woolacombe and Morte Point in the north down towards Baggy Point in the south. Dogs are allowed off-lead on this beach, so they can really stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh sea air.

Postcode: EX33 1LB
Restrictions: Seasonal restrictions are in place from April-October, where dogs are not allowed on the area of beach below the beach shop. Dogs are still welcome on the beach north of the shop, and the entire beach is dog-friendly at all other times

Stay nearby: Ruda Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans on the coast, 5 minutes' drive from Putsborough Sands

Welcombe Mouth Beach

Tucked away on the North Devon coast, Welcombe Mouth is a secluded beach surrounded by cliffs and rugged coastline - it's a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) thanks to its fascinating geological features. The sand and shingle beach can be hard to find, and is best accessed on foot via the South West Coast Path or down one of the tracks, but once you get there you'll be rewarded with wild, unspoilt shores and incredible rock formations. You can your dog can enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore at any time of year, taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Tip: Due to the lack of facilities and difficulty accessing the beach, this may not be the best beach for families with young children, although there are interesting rock pools to explore and a beautiful waterfall. The beach is also not ideal for swimming as there are so many rocks.

Postcode: EX39 6HL
Restrictions: Dogs are allowed all year round

Stay nearby: Sandymouth Holiday Resort - dog-friendly caravans and lodges on the coast, 20 minutes' drive from Welcombe Mouth Beach

Clovelly Beach

Clovelly is a charming fishing village with a small pebble beach that is dog-friendly all year round. The beach is sheltered from the waves by the old harbour wall, perfect for a quiet day by the sea with your furry friend. You can also easily access the South West Coast Path if you fancy a longer walk in the area. Clovelly itself is famous for its cobbled, car-free streets - a lovely safe place to explore with your dog.

Postcode: EX39 5TE
Restrictions: Dogs are allowed all year round

Stay nearby: Bideford Bay - dog-friendly lodges and chalets, 10 minutes' drive from Clovelly Beach. The Old Post House - sea-view holiday cottage within a mile of Clovelly Beach

Combe Martin Beach

Combe Martin Beach in North Devon is a sheltered beach nestled between towering cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for a day of seaside relaxation. With its gentle waves and picturesque shingle shores, this dog-friendly beach is perfect for both dogs and their owners to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a game of fetch by the water's edge.

Postcode: EX34 0DJ
Restrictions: There is a seasonal dog ban in place from May-September. The beach is dog friendly at all other times

Stay nearby: Sandaway Beach Holiday Park or Combe Martin Beach Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans, both less than 30 minutes' walk or 5 minutes' drive from Combe Martin Beach

Croyde Bay

Croyde Bay, one of the best Blue Flag beaches in Devon, is well known for its golden sands and rolling waves. Popular with surfers, swimmers and sunbathers, it's also a great place for dog walkers, with soft sand for paws and feet, and scenic walks out to Baggy Point - one of our favourite places for family-friendly walks in Devon. Although there are some restrictions in place during the summer months, there are areas around Croyde Bay you can walk your dog at any time of year.

Postcode: EX33 1FF
Restrictions: There is a seasonal dog ban in place from May-September, however dogs are still allowed on the sand dunes behind the beach during this time. The entire beach is dog friendly at all other times of the year

Stay nearby: Ruda Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans on the coast, 5 minutes' walk from Croyde Bay

Hele Bay

Hele Bay is a sheltered cove on the edge of Ilfracombe in Exmoor, with shingle and sand shores that are perfect for dogs to explore and play in. It's a quieter spot away from the crowds, ideal for a relaxing day out. It's also one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Devon as there are no restrictions, even in peak summer months. At low tide, you can explore the many rock pools that appear on both sides of the beach.

Tip: The beach is right by the South West Coast Path and Hillsborough Nature Reserve, so there are plenty of great dog walks locally.

Postcode: EX34 9QZ
Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round

Stay nearby: Beach Cove Coastal Retreat - dog-friendly cabins and sea-view boutique beach huts, right by Hele Beach

Woolacombe Beach

Award-winning Woolacombe Beach is renowned for being one of the best beaches in the UK, and the good news is, your dog can experience it too! With its long stretch of golden sands and clear waters, this Blue Flag Beach is a fantastic place for dogs to run and splash around. While dogs are not allowed on the main section of the beach during the summer months, there is a designated dog-friendly area that your pup will love. There are great beach facilities, ample parking, and plenty of cafés and pubs nearby, many of which welcome dogs.

Postcode: EX34 7DN
Restrictions: Seasonal restrictions are in place from May-October, when dogs are banned from a zoned area of the beach, and need to be kept on a lead in others. The beach is dog friendly the rest of the year

Stay nearby: Cleavewood or Golden Coast Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans, villas and apartments, both less than 10 minutes' drive from Woolacombe Beach

Saunton Sands

Set in the heart of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Saunton Sands is a beautiful 3-mile stretch of sandy beach that is dog-friendly all year round. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk with your pooch, and the stunning views are sure to make it a day to remember.

Tip: If your dog enjoys jumping in the dunes, the beach is backed by Braunton Burrows, one of the largest sand dune systems in the British Isles!

Postcode: EX33 1LQ
Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round

Stay nearby: Ruda Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans on the coast, 15 minutes' drive from Saunton Sands

Dog-friendly beaches in South Devon:

South Devon's dog-friendly beaches tend to be bustling and vibrant, with a mix of sandy coves and lively seaside resorts that offer a range of amenities for both dogs and their owners. You'll often find pretty promenades lined with cafés and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat after a day of beachcombing with your furry companion. The atmosphere in South Devon's dog-friendly beaches is lively and social, making it a popular choice for families and pet owners looking to soak up the sun and enjoy a day by the sea with their loved ones.

Paignton Sands

This family-friendly beach in Paignton, South Devon, is a great choice for those looking for a bustling seaside town vibe. Nestled on the coast of Torbay, the iconic English Riviera, the calm waters and soft sands here are ideal for both little feet and little paws! Whilst dogs are not allowed on the beach in summer months, it's still a fantastic dog-friendly beach for your autumn, spring or winter coastal getaway in Devon.

Postcode: TQ4 6AG
Restrictions: There is a seasonal dog ban from May-September. The beach is dog friendly at all other times

Stay nearby: Beverley Park - dog-friendly caravans, 10 minutes' drive from Paignton Sands. Russell House - dog-friendly former Victorian boutique hotel (sleeps 10) with sea views, 75 yards from Paignton Sands

Teignmouth Beach

Teignmouth is another lovely coastal spot for dog owners to explore in South Devon. There are actually two beaches here, Back Beach/River Beach and Town Beach. The main sandy beach is Teignmouth Town Beach, where dogs are allowed from October to April, making it a wonderful winter destination for a beach walk with your pup. Alternatively, the River Beach welcomes dogs all year round.

Postcode: TQ14 8AY
Restrictions: There is a seasonal dog ban on Teignmouth Town Beach from May-September, whilst Back Beach/River Beach is dog-friendly all year round

Stay nearby: Torquay Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans and apartments, 20 minutes' drive from Teignmouth Beach

Babbacombe Beach

Babbacombe Beach is a charming shingle beach near Torquay that welcomes dogs all year round. It's a popular spot for diving, fishing and rock pooling. With its picturesque cliffs and clear blue waters, it's a fantastic place to spend a day with your four-legged friend.

Tip: The path down to the beach is very steep, but you can take the Babbacombe Cliff Railway instead. Well-behaved dogs on a lead are usually allowed on the railway for free.

Postcode: TQ1 3LX
Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round

Stay nearby: Torquay Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans and apartments, 10 minutes' drive from Babbacombe Beach

Blackpool Sands

Blackpool Sands is a beautiful Blue Flag beach near Dartmouth that is well worth a visit while you're in South Devon. Dogs are welcome on the beach from October-April, making it a great choice for those looking for a peaceful day by the sea during the quieter winter months.

Tip: There are loads of facilities and activities at this beach - check out the Blackpool Sands website for further information.

Postcode: TQ6 0RG
Restrictions: There is a seasonal dog ban in place from May-September. Dogs are welcome on the beach at all other times

Stay nearby: Leonards Cove holiday park - dog-friendly accommodation, 15 minutes' walk from Blackpool Sands

Beer Beach

Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, in the charming fishing village of Beer, you'll find the small shingle cove of Beer Beach. With its stunning limestone cliffs and clear waters, it's a fascinating place to explore with your four-legged friend, and there are areas you can take your dog at any time of year.

Postcode: EX12 3BZ
Restrictions: There's a seasonal dog ban in place on the western half of the beach from May-September. Dogs are still allowed on the eastern half of the beach during this time. The entire beach is dog-friendly the rest of the year

Stay nearby: Beachcomber Cottage - dog-friendly holiday cottage (sleeps 6), 5 minutes' walk from Beer Beach

Meadfoot Beach

If you're looking for a beautiful dog-friendly beach with a relaxed atmosphere near Torquay, then look no further than the shingle shores of Meadfoot. Quieter than some of the other beaches on the popular English Riviera, the award-winning beach features a pretty promenade lined with colourful beach huts and is surrounded by imposing cliffs.

Postcode: TQ1 2LL
Restrictions: Dogs are allowed on the northern end of the beach all year round, but are banned from the southern end

Stay nearby: Torquay Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans and apartments, 15 minutes' drive from Meadfoot Beach. Lower Stables Apartment - dog-friendly ground-floor apartment (sleeps 4), less than a mile from Meadfoot Beach

Fishcombe Cove

Another hidden gem along the English Riviera is Fishcombe Cove, a peaceful and secluded shingle beach near Brixham, surrounded by tall red cliffs and pretty woodland. Though small, this quiet cove offers an enchanting retreat for dogs and their owners who want to escape the busier crowds in Torbay's better-known beaches. The cove is clean and well-maintained, with stunning views out to sea.

Postcode: TQ5 8RU
Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round

Stay nearby: Brixham Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans and chalets, 150 yards from Fishcombe Cove

Wembury Beach

If you're looking for dog-friendly beaches near Plymouth, Wembury Beach is a great choice. Dogs are welcome on the beach from October-April, and there are plenty of coastal walks to enjoy in the surrounding area in peak summer months, including the iconic South West Coast Path which runs right through Wembury. The sheltered waters are perfect for dogs who love paddling, while low tide reveals countless rock pools to explore with the kids.

Postcode: PL9 0HP
Restrictions: There is a seasonal dog ban in place from May-September. The beach is dog friendly at all other times and there are plenty of countryside walks in the area that are dog-friendly all year round

Stay nearby: The Ravine - dog-friendly holiday cottage with sea views (sleeps 2), 10 minutes' walk from Wembury Point and 10 minutes' drive from Wembury Beach

Mill Bay Beach

Accessed from the South West Coast Path or via ferry from nearby Salcombe, Mill Bay Beach is a picturesque sandy spot, perfect for dog owners looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the sun with their furry friends. The beach allow dogs year-round, making it a popular choice for dog-friendly days out along the south coast of Devon.

Tip: At low tide, you can walk all the way along the beach to East Portlemouth in the north

Postcode: TQ8 8PU
Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round

Strete Gate Beach

Rounding off our list of fantastic dog-friendly beaches in Devon, we have Strete Gate Beach, a wide stretch of shingle sand just south of Dartmouth. Nestled between the popular nearby beaches of Blackpool Sands and Slapton Sands, Strete Gate Beach welcomes dogs all year round, making it a great option for those looking to explore the South Devon coast with their four-legged companions.

Postcode: TQ6 0RR
Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round

Stay nearby: Seacliff Cottage - dog-friendly holiday cottage with sea views, 15 minutes' walk from Strete Gate Beach

Your dog-friendly Devon beach break awaits!

So, if you're looking for the perfect dog-friendly beach in Devon, be sure to check out these fantastic spots. From bustling seaside towns to secluded coves, there's something for everyone in this beautiful county. Just remember to check for any restrictions before you visit - especially in the summer season - and always clean up after your pooch to ensure that these beautiful beaches remain dog-friendly for years to come.

Explore our dog-friendly Devon holidays now or check out our full range of dog-friendly beach holidays in the UK. Plus, for something luxurious, don't miss our selection of dog-friendly hot tub breaks.

Image credits: Fishcombe Cove, Brixham by Roy Hughes (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons

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