5 of the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall

Whether your holiday is with all the family, a romantic break or a solo trip, many love the company of their four-legged friends to come along for the ride. Cornwall has some incredible beaches with plenty of opportunities to get sandy paws, let's take you through the best!

Whether your holiday is with all the family, a romantic break or a solo trip, many love the company of their four-legged friends to come along for the ride. Cornwall has some incredible beaches with plenty of opportunities to get sandy paws, however, there are a few things to consider when taking your dog on a trip to the sea. Rules and restrictions vary when it comes to dog-friendly beaches, and here we outline when our favourites allow our furry friends to join us.

These are the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall to enjoy a doggy-paddle, a run around the beach or a traditional hole-digging session.

1. Trebarwith Strand Beach, near Tintagel

Trebarwith Strand, Cornwall

Dogs allowed: all year round

An interesting beach with caves along the cliffs to explore and rock pools to find wildlife great for adventurous families and dogs. Access to the beach is over flat rocks and the beach itself disappears and only rocks remain at high tide, so ensure you check tide times.

Dogs are allowed all year round so they can enjoy a great run and a splash. There are lifeguards in the summer months so it is advised to only swim during this time. Access for cars is via a dead end lane or if you're walking you can get to the beach via the South West Coastal Path. 

Stay at: Camelford Club Campsite - 4.5 miles away.

 

2. Watergate Bay, near Newquay

Watergate Bay, Cornwall. Photo by James Preston-Hood

Dogs allowed: all year round

A beautiful long stretch of sandy beach known for its surf and sunsets. A very relaxed atmosphere surrounded by stunning scenery. Due to the great waves this is a popular beach for surfers, bodyboarders and kite-surfers.

With coves and rock pools to discover you can enjoy exploring the area. Dogs are permitted all year round and there are facilities and a car park close by with easy access to the beach. 

Stay at: Treamble Valley Club Campsite - 8.5 miles away.

 

3. Hayle Towans Beach, near Hayle

Gwithian/Hayle Beach, Cornwall. Photo by Jim Teague

Dogs allowed: all year round, some restrictions apply during summer months

This stunning sandy beach stretching from Hayle Estuary to Godrevy Point offers some incredible views. There are some sections of the beach which are dog friendly while others have some restrictions during the summer months.

Backed by beautiful sand dunes there is plenty to explore after a nice dip in the sea. There's a car park and cafes nearby.

Stay at: Godrevy Park Club Campsite - 3.5 miles away.

 

4. Towan Beach, The Roseland, near Portscatho

Towan Beach, Cornwall. Member photo by Nicola Heal

Dogs allowed: all year round

One of a number of beaches near St Mawes, this all year round dog-friendly sand and shingle beach is great for spotting wildlife, from seals and sea birds to exploring the rock pools when the tide is out.

Dogs can enjoy a lovely walk and a splash in the sea. The beach has easy access with a car park nearby. 

Stay at: Merrose St Mawes Club Campsite - 3.5 miles away.

 

5. Seaton Beach, near Looe

Seaton Beach, Cornwall

Dogs allowed: all year round, check for restrictions in summer

Dogs are allowed at Seaton Beach all year round however there may be some restrictions during the summer months.

The beach is a mix of sand and shingle, with plently of space for dogs to enjoy a paddle and a run around. There's a car park and facilities nearby to make this a fantastic day out with your furry friend. 

Stay at: Looe Club Campsite - 4 miles away.

 

Things to consider on your dog-friendly beach day:

• Access to beaches vary from gentle paths to steep climbs
• Bring poo bags so you can clean up after your dog
• Bring a lead - if there are lead restrictions please follow them
• Be aware of what your dog is doing and be considerate to other beachgoers
• Bring water, bowl and a towel