Dog-Friendly Beaches in Cornwall: The Complete Guide

Cornwall boasts over 300 beaches, and the good news for dog owners is that more than 60 welcome dogs year-round with no seasonal restrictions whatsoever. Even beaches with summer bans typically allow dogs before 10am and after 5pm, meaning early risers and evening strollers can enjoy almost any stretch of sand.

The variety is remarkable. Mile-long expanses of golden sand where dogs can run until they're exhausted. Hidden coves accessible only by cliff path walks where you might not see another soul. Surf beaches where adventurous dogs can join their owners in the waves. Sheltered bays perfect for nervous swimmers or older dogs who prefer gentler conditions. Whatever your dog loves, Cornwall has a beach to match.

Understanding the restrictions matters for planning your trip. Some beaches ban dogs entirely during summer months to protect busy family areas. Others require leads at certain times. A few welcome dogs completely unrestricted throughout the year, and these are the real gems for dedicated dog owners. This guide cuts through the confusion, covering the best dog-friendly beaches across the UK with particular focus on Cornwall's exceptional coastline.

When planning your Cornwall holiday, choosing accommodation near year-round dog beaches makes a real difference to your daily routine. No need to drive miles for a morning walk when you can step out of your cottage and reach the sand in minutes.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have explored Cornish beaches from Bude to the Lizard, and this guide shares our favourites organised by region with current restriction information.

Understanding Beach Restrictions

Cornwall Council operates Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) on many popular beaches. These typically run from Easter to 30th September or 1st October, though exact dates vary by beach.

Common Restriction Types:

• Complete ban: Dogs not permitted at all during restriction period
• Timed access: Dogs allowed before 10am and after 5pm (or similar times)
• Lead required: Dogs permitted but must be on leads
• Year-round access: No restrictions at any time

Important Notes:

• Restrictions apply to the main beach area, not necessarily the entire coastline
• Adjacent sections may have different rules
• Local signage always takes precedence over online information
• Rules can change between seasons, so always check current signs
• Fines can be issued for non-compliance

For beaches with restrictions, the good news is that early morning and evening access usually remains available, and these are often the best times anyway with fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and spectacular light.

North Cornwall Beaches

The north coast faces the full force of the Atlantic, creating dramatic scenery, excellent surf and spectacular beaches. Many of the best dog-friendly beaches are found here, making this coast particularly popular with dog owners. Cottages near these beaches offer direct access to year-round dog-friendly sand.

Watergate Bay

One of Cornwall's finest beaches and completely dog-friendly year-round.

The Beach: Two miles of golden sand stretching beneath dramatic cliffs. At low tide, the beach expands enormously, creating vast space for dogs to run. The flat, wet sand provides perfect conditions for ball games and general zooming.

Why Dogs Love It:

• Huge expanse of sand with room for everyone
• Year-round access with no restrictions
• Great for running, swimming and fetching
• Atlantic surf for adventurous dogs

Facilities:

• Large car park (pay and display)
• Toilets and changing facilities
• Dog-friendly cafes including the famous Watergate Bay Hotel
• Beach shop for forgotten essentials

Location: TR8 4AA, 3 miles north of Newquay

The beach is popular with surfers, bodyboarders and kite surfers, which some dogs find endlessly entertaining to watch. The Extreme Academy offers watersports tuition if you want to join in while your dog supervises from the sand.

Constantine Bay

A genuine hidden gem near Padstow, welcoming dogs throughout the year.

The Beach: Wide expanse of fine sand flanked by sweeping dunes and rock pools. At low tide, you can walk to neighbouring Booby's Bay, effectively doubling the available space.

Why Dogs Love It:

• Year-round access without restrictions
• Rock pools for exploration and paddling
• Dunes for sniffing and exploring
• Less crowded than more famous beaches

Facilities:

• Limited parking at Constantine (arrives early)
• Better parking at nearby Treyarnon Bay
• Toilets available
• No beach cafe but facilities in nearby villages

Location: PL28 8JH, 5 miles from Padstow

Park at Treyarnon Bay and walk the coast path to Constantine for a proper outing combining walk and beach time. The area around Trevose Head offers excellent additional walking.

Harlyn Bay

Family-friendly and dog-friendly, this sheltered bay welcomes dogs year-round.

The Beach: Gentle, sheltered waters make this ideal for swimming dogs and nervous paddlers. Good sand with interesting rock pools at low tide.

Why Dogs Love It:

• Year-round dog access
• Sheltered, gentler waves than exposed beaches
• Good for older or less confident dogs
• Rock pools for exploration

Facilities:

• Good car park
• Toilets
• Beach shop and cafe
• Lifeguarded in summer

Location: PL28 8SB, 4 miles from Padstow

The combination of year-round access and sheltered conditions makes Harlyn particularly good for older dogs or those who find big surf intimidating.

Holywell Bay

Famous from the Poldark TV series, this dramatic beach welcomes dogs year-round.

The Beach: Large sandy beach backed by towering dunes reaching 60 feet in places. Features caves accessible at low tide and a stream perfect for dogs to cool off in. The twin islets of Carter's Rocks create a dramatic backdrop.

Why Dogs Love It:

• Year-round access
• Caves and streams to explore
• Huge dunes for adventures
• Plenty of space even in busy periods

Facilities:

• Large car park
• Toilets
• Beach cafe
• Dog-friendly St Piran's Inn nearby

Location: TR8 5PW, 6 miles from Newquay

Caution: Adders occasionally found in the dunes during warm weather. Keep dogs on paths through dune areas.

The six-mile walk over Cubert Common provides excellent exercise before or after beach time.

Perranporth Beach

Miles of golden sand creating one of Cornwall's most spectacular beaches.

The Beach: At low tide, Perranporth connects with Penhale Sands to form the longest stretch of unbroken sand in north Cornwall. Simply massive space for dogs to run.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access
• July and August: dogs must be on leads 10am to 5pm on main beach area
• Dunes and areas beyond flat rocks allow off-lead walking even in summer restrictions

Why Dogs Love It:

• Enormous space, especially at low tide
• Year-round access (with summer lead restrictions)
• Beach becomes quieter away from town
• Famous Watering Hole pub right on the beach

Facilities:

• Multiple car parks
• Full facilities in town
• The Watering Hole beach bar (dogs welcome on leads)
• Beach shops and cafes

Location: TR6 0JN

The Watering Hole claims to be the UK's only bar actually on the beach. Dogs are welcome on leads, making this a genuinely unique post-beach refreshment stop.

Mawgan Porth

A picturesque village beach between Newquay and Padstow.

The Beach: Award-winning sheltered cove surrounded by high Cornish headlands. Sandy beach with excellent conditions for families and dogs.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access
• Dogs should be under control

Why Dogs Love It:

• Sheltered location
• Year-round access
• Quieter than nearby Newquay beaches
• Good swimming conditions

Facilities:

• Car park
• Toilets
• Beach cafe
• Pub in village

Location: TR8 4BA

Fistral Beach

Yes, Cornwall's most famous surf beach welcomes dogs year-round.

The Beach: The iconic Fistral needs little introduction. Powerful Atlantic waves, golden sand and a surf culture that's famous worldwide.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access
• Dogs should be kept under control given busy conditions

Why Dogs Love It:

• Famous beach experience
• Exciting waves (for confident dogs)
• Year-round access
• Watching surfers provides entertainment

Facilities:

• Large car park
• Full facilities including showers
• Multiple cafes and restaurants
• Surf hire and tuition available

Location: TR7 1HY, Newquay

The surf can be powerful, so this suits confident dogs comfortable around waves. The beach gets very busy in summer but early mornings remain relatively peaceful.

Gwithian and The Towans

A three-mile stretch of sand overlooking St Ives Bay.

The Beach: Part of St Ives Bay, this vast beach offers stunning views towards Godrevy Lighthouse. The beach is backed by dunes (towans in Cornish) and feels wild and unspoilt.

Dog Policy:

• Mexico Towans (central section): dogs welcome year-round
• Gwithian Towans and Hayle Towans: seasonal restrictions July and August, 10am to 6pm
• Dogs welcome outside restricted hours year-round

Why Dogs Love It:

• Huge space
• Dramatic scenery
• Dunes to explore
• Views of Godrevy Lighthouse (inspiration for Virginia Woolf)

Facilities:

• Several car parks along the beach
• Cafes and beach shops
• Toilets at main access points

Location: TR27 5BW area

Gwithian was crowned Sunday Times Best Beach of 2024. The central Mexico Towans section provides year-round unrestricted access, making this an excellent choice even in peak summer.

Porthkidney Sands (Happy Dog Beach)

Locally known as Happy Dog Beach for good reason.

The Beach: Just around the headland from Carbis Bay, this beach remains remarkably quiet despite its beauty. Vast expanse of sand at low tide with views across the estuary.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access, no restrictions

Why Dogs Love It:

• Year-round unrestricted access
• Usually quiet even when other beaches are busy
• Huge space at low tide
• Local reputation as the dog beach

Facilities:

• Limited parking (roadside)
• No beach facilities
• Facilities in nearby Lelant or Carbis Bay

Location: TR26 3HX area, near St Ives

The contrast with nearby Carbis Bay (which has restrictions) is striking. This feels like a secret beach despite being easily accessible.

South Cornwall Beaches

The south coast offers a gentler character with more sheltered bays, hidden coves and a traditional Cornish atmosphere.

Talland Bay

A beautiful small beach between Looe and Polperro.

The Beach: Two small beaches with sand and rock pools surrounded by Heritage Coast scenery. The coastal path from either Looe or Polperro provides excellent walking access.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access
• Dogs on leads requested

Why Dogs Love It:

• Year-round access when nearby Looe and Polperro have restrictions
• Rock pools for exploration
• Natural tidal pool for paddling
• Beautiful coastal setting

Facilities:

• Limited car park (arrives early in summer)
• Beach cafe and shop
• Toilets

Location: PL13 2JB

As Looe's main beach bans dogs year-round and Polperro has seasonal restrictions, Talland provides an essential alternative for dog owners staying in this area.

Seaton Beach

A fantastic sand and pebble beach at the mouth of the River Seaton.

The Beach: Popular family beach with good facilities. At low tide, connects with Downderry Beach for extended walking.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access, no restrictions

Why Dogs Love It:

• Year-round unrestricted access
• Good mix of sand and pebbles
• Connects to other beaches at low tide
• Safe swimming conditions

Facilities:

• Parking available
• Cafe and shops
• The Smugglers Inn nearby
• Toilets

Location: PL11 3JQ, near Looe

Downderry Beach

Grey sand and shingle beach on the South West Coast Path.

The Beach: Located in the village of Downderry, this beach offers swimming, walking and at low tide connects to Seaton Beach.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access, no restrictions

Facilities:

• Parking in village
• Inn on the Shore pub (dog-friendly)
• Basic facilities

Location: PL11 3JU

Lansallos Beach

A hidden cove requiring a walk to reach, perfect for dogs who love adventure.

The Beach: Small sand and rock cove near Pencarrow Head. A waterfall once powered a small mill here. The 20-minute walk filters out casual visitors.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access, no restrictions

Why Dogs Love It:

• Walk to reach it provides exercise
• Secluded and usually quiet
• Year-round access
• Wild, unspoilt character

Facilities:

• National Trust car park near church
• No beach facilities, bring everything

Location: PL13 2PX area

The walk is part of the experience. Park by the church and enjoy 20 minutes through beautiful countryside before reaching this hidden gem.

Lantic Bay

One of Cornwall's most stunning beaches, completely dog-friendly.

The Beach: Between Fowey and Polperro, this spectacular bay features white sand and clear turquoise water beneath high verdant cliffs. At low tide, Little Lantic and Great Lantic connect.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access, no restrictions

Why Dogs Love It:

• Stunning scenery
• Year-round unrestricted access
• Walk required filters crowds
• Secluded coves to explore

Facilities:

• National Trust car park about a mile from Polruan
• No beach facilities

Location: PL23 1NP area

Caution: Strong rip currents at Lantic Bay. Supervise dogs swimming and don't let them go out too far.

Pendower Beach

On the Roseland Peninsula, a south-facing beauty.

The Beach: Golden sand with excellent swimming conditions. Connects with neighbouring Carne Beach at low tide.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access
• Dogs on leads in summer months

Facilities:

• Car park
• Beach cafe
• Toilets

Location: TR2 5PF

The Roseland Peninsula offers some of Cornwall's most peaceful coastal scenery. Cottages in this area provide access to multiple quiet beaches.

Par Sands

Large golden sandy beach on Cornwall's south coast.

The Beach: Backed by grassy sand dunes with views towards the Roseland Peninsula. A spacious beach with good facilities.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access, no restrictions

Facilities:

• Car park
• Cafe
• Toilets

Location: PL24 2AS, between Fowey and St Austell

Gorran Haven

A small harbour village with a dog-friendly beach.

The Beach: East-facing sand and shingle beach popular with families. Set just outside Mevagissey.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access
• Dogs on leads requested

Facilities:

• Toilets
• Cafe
• Village amenities nearby

Location: PL26 6JJ

West Cornwall and The Lizard

Long Rock Beach

Near Penzance with Mount's Bay views.

The Beach: Sand and shingle beach with stunning views of St Michael's Mount.

Dog Policy:

• Year-round access, no restrictions

Location: TR20 8JE

Kennack Sands

On the Lizard Peninsula, two beaches separated by rocks.

The Beach: Sandy beaches with good swimming and rock pooling.

Dog Policy:

• Eastern beach: year-round access
• Western beach: seasonal restrictions

Location: TR12 7LT

Beaches to Avoid with Dogs

For clarity, these popular beaches have significant restrictions:

Year-round dog bans:

• Looe main beach
• Some central St Ives beaches

Seasonal bans (typically Easter to October):

• Polperro Beach
• Readymoney Cove, Fowey
• Parts of Carbis Bay
• Porthminster Beach, St Ives
• Porthmeor Beach, St Ives (some sections)
• Falmouth beaches (various restrictions)

Always check local signage as rules can change.

Planning Beach Days

Best Times to Visit

Planning around tides and restrictions helps you make the most of beach days. Book a cottage close to year-round beaches to maximise your time on the sand.

Early Morning (before 10am):

• Quietest conditions
• Coolest temperatures for dogs
• Beautiful light for photography
• Access to restricted beaches before bans begin

Evening (after 5pm):

• Restricted beaches open again
• Spectacular sunsets on west-facing beaches
• Cooler conditions
• Often quieter than midday

Tide Timing:

• Low tide provides maximum beach space
• Some beaches disappear at high tide
• Rock pools exposed at low tide
• Check times before setting out

What to Bring

Essentials:

• Fresh water and bowl (dogs shouldn't drink seawater)
• Poo bags (beaches require strict compliance)
• Towels for drying
• Lead (required on some beaches, useful on all)
• Sun protection for pink noses

Useful Extras:

• Ball launcher for sandy beaches
• Long line for beaches requiring leads
• Cooling mat for hot days
• First aid kit including tick remover
• Shade if spending extended time

Our complete dog travel essentials guide covers everything for beach holidays.

Beach Safety

Currents and Waves:

• North coast beaches have stronger surf
• Rip currents can be dangerous
• Supervise dogs swimming
• Know your dog's swimming ability

Cliffs:

• Keep dogs away from cliff edges
• Cliff falls happen, especially after rain
• Use proper paths, not scrambles

Wildlife:

• Seals occasionally seen, keep dogs away
• Jellyfish appear late summer and autumn
• Adders possible in dunes during warm weather

Heat:

• Sand can burn paw pads on hot days
• Dogs overheat quickly
• Provide shade and water
• Consider early morning or evening visits in summer

Book Your Stay

Ready to explore Cornwall's incredible beaches with your dog? Find your perfect dog-friendly cottage near the best beaches.

Book Your Dog-Friendly Cornwall Stay

Stay in a cottage with enclosed garden and easy beach access. Many properties are positioned specifically for dog owners, with outdoor showers, dog-washing facilities and direct paths to year-round beaches.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Cornwall's beaches are genuinely exceptional for dogs. The combination of year-round access on dozens of beaches, dramatic scenery and welcoming coastal communities creates the perfect destination for beach-loving dogs and their owners.

The key is knowing which beaches welcome dogs when you're visiting. Summer brings restrictions on some popular beaches, but there's always a dog-friendly alternative nearby. Early mornings and evenings extend your options further, and honestly, these are often the best times anyway, with quieter conditions and beautiful light.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have their favourites. Watergate Bay for sheer space and that sense of Atlantic wildness. Constantine Bay for the combination of beach and dune walking. Lantic Bay for the adventure of getting there and the reward of that turquoise water. But really, we've never found a bad beach in Cornwall, just different characters for different moods.

Find a cottage near your chosen beaches and prepare for sandy paws, salty coats and memories that will have tails wagging for years to come.

Happy beach days.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, Molly and Luke

Continue Planning Your Trip

Discover more about dog-friendly Cornwall: cottages, walks, pubs and attractions.

For beaches elsewhere in the UK, explore our complete dog-friendly beaches guide covering the best coastal destinations nationwide.

Beach restrictions can change between seasons. Always check local signage for current rules. Cornwall Council publishes official PSPO information on their website.