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by Steph Boal / Travel Tips
Welcome to our guide on dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall! If you’re a dog owner planning a seaside holiday in the UK, Cornwall should definitely be on your list of destinations.
With its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and golden sands, Cornwall boasts some of the most picturesque and enjoyable beaches in the UK for dogs and their owners alike. From playing fetch on the sand to swimming in the calm waters, there are plenty of fun activities that you and your canine companion can enjoy together.
Continue reading to discover the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall…
Dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall FAQs
The Best Dog-friendly Beaches in Cornwall
Dog-friendly Beaches in Cornwall with no restrictions
Dog-friendly Beaches in Cornwall with some restrictions
Dog-friendly Beaches in Cornwall Map
Dogs are allowed on the majority of beaches in Cornwall. However, some enforce restrictions, often covering the summer months when the beaches are at their busiest. Read on to discover the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall with no restrictions as well as a couple of must-visits that have restrictions in the summer. Cornwall Council also offers more information on dogs on beaches here.
There are three beaches in Cornwall which have all-year bans when it comes to allowing dogs on beaches. They are Carnsew Pool, Copperhouse Pool and Hayle Estuary.
Yes! Dogs are welcome all year round on Perranporth Beach. We’ve even picked it as one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall, so read on to discover more.
Dogs are allowed on all of the beaches in St Ives between the 1st of October and the 14th of May. But there is a secret gem, Bamaluz Beach which welcomes dogs all year round, we’ve included more information about this local secret in our guide below!
Nestled in the picturesque harbour town of St Ives is our first dog-friendly beach in Cornwall – Bamaluz Beach. Despite being one of the smaller beaches in our guide, Bamaluz provides a peaceful alternative to the other often-bustling shores.
Take the steps down and let your beloved canine companion run free! When the tide is out, stroll along the water’s edge, admiring the rockpools that lace the shore. It is also close to some of the other best beaches in St Ives, meaning there are countless opportunities to explore.
Visit in the evening with a flask of tea and perch yourself on the rocks, ready for a truly breath-taking Cornish sunset. Breathe in the sea air as the sun dips behind the horizon, leaving a burnt orange haze across the sky. There is no better way to end the day than in one of the best places to visit in Cornwall.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: No, dog-friendly all year round
Car Park: Parking is available at The Island Car Park TR26 1SY, Smeatons Pier TR25 1PS or use the park and ride from St Erth train station.
Postcode: TR26 1PR
Crantock Beach is a stunning location with extensive golden sands, rolling surf, and dramatic sand dunes. It’s hugely popular with tourists and locals alike and is situated a short drive away from the bustling shores of Newquay. This dog-friendly beach in Cornwall is a great option for those looking to avoid crowds.
The National Trust takes care of Crantock Beach, and it has the River Gannel flowing on one side, while large cliffs shelter the beach from the wind on the other. This makes it the perfect place to sunbathe, build sandcastles with the kids, splash in the sea, or throw the ball for your pooch. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the best beaches in Cornwall.
The beach’s location makes the water perfect for those looking to try out thrilling watersports! Take on the Cornish swells by surfing, bodyboarding and stand-up paddleboarding; don’t worry if you’re new to it as you can try out Big Green Adventures Crantock Challenge.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: No, dog-friendly all year round
Car Park: National Trust car park is free to members or pay and display, TR8 5RN
Postcode: TR8 5RN
Looking to rub shoulders with surfers on one of the best surfing beaches in Cornwall? Then look no further than our next dog-friendly beach in Cornwall. Fistral Beach is one of the most beautiful dog-friendly beaches in the UK with stunning sand and crystal clear waters.
Its beauty has not gone unnoticed, and eagle-eyed visitors might recognise The Headland Hotel, which is visible from the beach and was the UK filming location of the 1990 classic The Witches!
Let your dog run freely across the endless golden sands. Dogs often frequent the water here so feel free to head into the waves for a paddle with your pooch or walk along the shore and let the waves lap at your toes!
This dog-friendly beach in Cornwall is home to the fantastic Fistral Beach Complex which houses surf shops and endless food options. Indulge in traditional fish and chips at Rick Stein or grab something quick at the Pasty Shack.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: No, dog-friendly all year round
Car Park: Large pay and display Fistral Beach car park, TR7 1HY
Postcode: TR7 1HY
Located two miles south of Mevagissey is Gorran Haven, a quaint fishing village where you’ll find one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall.
Since Gorran Haven is protected by Dodman Point, it is a popular starting point for walks along the cliffs. This makes the scenic walk from here to Mevagissey one of the best walks in Cornwall, perfect for you and your pooch!
Dogs are allowed on this beach all year round, provided they are kept on a leash between Easter and September. Additionally, Gorran Haven is home to a wide variety of plants and animals which can be spotted from the 630-mile-long South West Coast Path that borders the beach.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round but must be on a leash between Easter and September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: PL26 6JJ
Next up on our guide to the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall is Harbour Cove in Padstow. With sweeping views over the mouth of the Camel Estuary and endless sand, this is a great place to let your dog run free.
Park up in the nearby car park and head down the path to be greeted by the picture-perfect sight of Harbour Cove. Be sure to pack a beach bag so you can while away hours on this hidden gem. Roll out a blanket and bask in the sun as your pooch digs in the sand!
This dog-friendly beach in Cornwall lies just a stone’s throw from the idyllic harbour town of Padstow. Meander along the South West Coast path, admiring far-reaching views out to sea before reaching the town where you can indulge in Rick Steins’s famous fish and chips!
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: No, dog-friendly all year round
Car Park: Parking is available at Harbour Cove Car Park, PL28 8HR
Postcode: PL28 8HR
Harlyn Bay is one of Cornwall’s best dog-friendly beaches, offering a vast expanse of golden sand and pebbles with an abundance of interesting rock pools. Bring your dog along to this golden haven, backed by dunes and situated just west of Padstow.
Beginner surfers flock to this crescent-shaped bay in Cornwall because of its reputation as one of the region’s safest beaches. A lazy stream flows into the beach from the southeast corner of Harlyn village, which boasts local amenities.
The remains of an ancient Iron Age cemetery were discovered behind the beach and views of Pentire Head and Newquay can be enjoyed from the cliffs at Trevose Head. There are plenty of other fascinating facts about Cornwall to be discovered whilst visiting this dog-friendly beach in Cornwall.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: No, Dog-friendly all year round
Car Park: Yes, in the village
Postcode: PL28 8SB
Escape the crowds that flock to Newquay by visiting Mawgan Porth, our next dog-friendly beach in Cornwall. Explore this quieter Cornish beach, which offers the same golden sands, rolling waves, and unbeatable views as Newquay’s famous beaches with your beloved pooch!
Bring the whole family down to enjoy a fun-filled day on Mawgan Porth Beach. Look forward to beach games, basking in the summer sun and swimming in the crystal clear water. There is even a lifeguard service between May and September so you and the kids can swim safely.
Keen explorers will also be in their element thanks to the rockpools and hidden caves peppered along the shoreline. The South West Coast path opens up the rest of Cornwall for exploration and of course, the bustling town of Newquay is just a short drive away!
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: No, dog-friendly all year round
Car Park: Parking next to the beach at Mawgan Porth car park, TR8 4BA for £5 per day or free after 4pm
Postcode: TR8 4BA
Nestled between two other beautiful Cornish beaches, this impressive 3-mile stretch of sand in Hayle is Mexico Towans Beach. This wonderful beach is dog-friendly all year round and is serviced by lifeguards between May and September; the ultimate setting for a pet-friendly holiday in the UK.
Time your visit for when the tide is out to make the most of this blissful beach. It is the perfect place to let your dog burn off some energy by running off the lead due to the sheer amount of space.
After tiring out your pooch, building sandcastles or a spot of wild swimming stop off at the dog-friendly Sandy Acres Beach Cafè. Indulge in their delicious coffees, cakes and sandwiches either inside or at their outdoor seating area which overlooks the beauty of the Mexico Towans Beach.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: No, dog-friendly all year round, please pay attention to the signs showing where dogs are allowed as Mexico Towans is in the middle of two other beaches which do not allow dogs
Car Park: Parking available at Cove Cafè
Postcode: TR27 5AF
Looked after by the National Trust, Northcott Mouth Beach is next in our guide to dog-friendly Cornwall beaches. Resting on the outskirts of the seaside town of Bude this rocky beach is ideal for allowing your dog to burn off some energy.
Backed by impressive towering cliffs with a rugged and wild feel, this dog-friendly beach feels like a secluded cove. Discover rockpools brimming with wildlife, explore cavernous caves or splash around in the sea!
After spending the day on the beach, take a walk up to the cliffs that encapsulate this cove known as the Bude Formation. From here you can marvel at far-reaching views across the sea and along the coast. Head up here on an evening to catch the colour of the sky changing to an iconic purple as the sun sets over Bude.
Type of beach: Sandy/rocky
Restrictions: No, dog-friendly all year round
Car Park: National Trust car park which is free for members or pay and display, EX23 9ED
Postcode: EX23 9ED
With miles of golden sand and azure waters, you could easily mistake our next dog-friendly beach in Cornwall for the exotic Mediterranean! I
Families return here year after year because there is plenty of space to kick back and relax. t is easy to feel as if the Cornish beach is all yours thanks to the immense expanse of golden sand. There is a lifeguard on duty during the summer months and access is easy from the village.
It is a wonderful location for surfing, snorkelling, walking, and sailing, so it is sure to appeal to all ages and canine companions throughout the year!
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: No restrictions, dog-friendly all year round.
Car Park: Several car parks available, Car Park on the Promenade, Perranporth parking, Wheel Leisure Park, all pay and display
Postcode: TR6 0ND
Carbis Bay Beach is an award-winning Blue Flag beach located in the wonderful coastal village of Carbis Bay. Stretching across 25 acres, this Cornish beach is dog-friendly from October to May and all year round before 10am and after 6pm.
Carbis Bay Beach is a coastal gem with picturesque white sands and crystal-clear, turquoise waters. Pack up your beach essentials and while away the day sunbathing on the soft sands, playing beach games, or throwing the ball for your dog. Why not venture out onto the open water for thrilling watersports?
St Ives, with its bustling streets lined with restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops, is also within reach. Providing the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, Carbis Bay is a must-visit for you and your pooch.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: Dogs are not permitted on the beach between 15th May to 30th September between 10am-6pm
Car Park: Car park behind the beach at the Carbis Bay Hotel at a small charge or at a pay-and-display car park a short walk from the beach
Postcode: TR26 2NW
Our next dog-friendly beach in Cornwall is recognised as one of the best beaches in South Cornwall. Settled in the seaside haven of Falmouth is the beautiful Gyllyngvase Beach which also boasts Blue Flag status.
Perfect for families, this crescent beach is home to swathes of blonde sand, clear water and a whole host of amenities; ideal for spending full days by the sea. Watch as the kids splash around in the sea or enjoy a walk along the sand looking for crabs, shrimps and lobsters that reside in the rock pools.
There is also a range of exciting watersports on other at Gyllyngvase Beach; make waves with kayaks and paddle boards. Feel safe in the knowledge that there is lifeguard supervision between 15th May to 30th September.
End your day of fun at Gylly Beach Café which lies on the seafront. Here you can the finest of local Cornish ingredients while admiring the spectacular views across the sea. The perfect setting for a romantic date night or a family outing.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: Dogs are not permitted on the beach between 15th May to 30th September between 10am-6pm
Car Park: Pay and display parking available at Gyllyngvase Long Stay car park, TR11 4DP
Postcode: TR11 4PA
Lying at the foot of one of Cornwall’s magical castles is Marazion Beach. Despite Marazion being hugely popular with both tourists and locals its dog-friendly beach remains relatively quiet. A truly majestic location for you and your pooch!
Measuring at around a mile long there is plenty of space for a dog walk in the impressive shadow of St Michael’s Mount. When the tide is out, look forward to crossing the causeway on foot to reach the island where you can enjoy a walk around the harbour and village which is still home to around 30 residents!
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the island’s history take a tour of the breath-taking castle, church and priory which are steeped in rich history. You can also look forward to the sub-tropical garden featuring Aloe, Tulbaghia, Lavender and Lampranthus; a haven for plant lovers.
Experience all of this as well as the charming streets of Marazion after a fun-filled day on this dog-friendly beach in Cornwall.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: Dogs are not permitted on the beach between from Easter to 1st October
Car Park: Pay and display parking at the Short Stay Marazion car park, TR17 0EQ and Folleyfiled Long Stay car park, TR17 0EP
Postcode: TR17 0EQ
With far-reaching views across the sea, Widemouth Beach which stretches two impressive miles is our final pick for the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall. This awe-inspiring Blue Flag beach showcases the best of Cornwall’s wild coast.
Nestled a short drive from the thriving town of Bude the beach is known for its wide expanse of soft sands, crystal clear water and fantastic surf; a real oasis for water sports lovers and beach enthusiasts. The beach even offers a surf school, OA surf club caters to both beginners and experts, so be sure to take the plunge.
During your visit relax and wind with your pooch as you bask in the beach’s natural beauty; if you stay until evening you might even witness one of Cornwall’s spectacular sunsets. Widemouth Beach is undoubtedly one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall.
Type of beach: Sandy
Restrictions: Dogs are not permitted on the beach between 15th May to 30th September between 10am-6pm
Car Park: Pay and display car park available, Widemouth Bay car Park, EX23 0AW
Postcode: EX23 0AW
Looking forward to taking your pooch to a dog-friendly beach in Cornwall? Then be sure to book one of these dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall! For more inspiration for your trip uncover these secret beaches in Cornwall or read our Cornwall Travel Guide.
by Steph Boal / Travel Tips
Hi, I'm Steph and I joined the Sykes team in 2022. I grew up in the North East of England so unsurprisingly I love exploring the w...
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