Whether your dog is a sand-warrior, a wave-chaser or a pebble-stroller, Devon’s beaches offer a variety of different styles for you to enjoy wanders with your woofer.
There’s lots of choice on both sides of the county, with North Devon famed for its surfing. South Devon is home to the English Riviera and many picturesque coves. So, wherever you’re headed on holiday there’s a sublime stretch to explore. We have listed some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Devon listed below.
South Devon
Salcombe
Salcombe has a grand total of five beaches, all different but as beautiful as each other. North and South Sands are the most accessible, but if you’re looking for true peace, then hire a boat & set sail for Limbury and the Hipple.
Besides the beaches, the pretty town of Salcombe is a lovely place for a wander and browse of the boutique shops, art galleries and gift shops with a well-earned coffee stop in one of many fabulous cafes out there. Both you and your dog will love exploring the surrounding area in this beautiful spot.
Insider’s tip: For over 20 years, The Winking Prawn over the road from North Sands has been sustaining beachgoers with a fantastic array of food. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee or ice cream, whatever you fancy, you’ll find it here. We recommend sampling some of the local seafood, perhaps a bucket of prawns as a nod to the café’s charming name.
Babbacombe Beach
This pretty little cove is a popular diving spot, covered in sand and shingle and backed by thick woodland – so there’s plenty of options for walkies! There’s a breakwater at one end of the beach, so if your dog is happy to sit and sunbathe, you can cast a line and see what wonders of the deep crop up. Of all the bays along this stretch of coast, Babbacombe is up there with the best!
Insider’s tip: Public toilets for the humans are seasonally open (April to October) and there is a café and deckchair hire available.
East Portlemouth
If you want a beach holiday that gets you away from the crowds and gives you a chance to relax in peace and quiet, then East Portlemouth is well worth a visit. We are very sure that your dog will love running about on this quiet beach.
Nestled on the banks of Salcombe Harbour this pleasant village boasts a stretch of sandy beach that welcomes dogs all year round. A ferry is available across to Salcombe so you experience more than one of Devon’s great beaches in a day.
Insider’s tip: Time your visit when the tide is out and it’s possible to walk along to Mill Bay.
North Devon
Saunton Sands
One of the most popular beaches in the UK, let alone Devon, you and your dog will go barking mad for how beautiful this stretch of sand is. It has made appearances in music videos by Robbie Williams, Coldplay and featured in many films, but above all, it is loved by surfers – even those with four legs, having formed the first-ever dog surfing school on its shores, Paws on Boards!
There are always plenty of paws enjoying the sand, sea and dunes, so it’s a particularly good spot if your pooch is a socialite at heart that loves making new furry friends.
Insider’s tip: Avoid parking charges by visiting outside of peak hours, your dog will love it whenever you visit! Be aware that if you leave the car park during the chargeable period you will have to pay for that portion of your stay.
Croyde
Although not dog-friendly all year round, Croyde is rewarding for those who choose to visit during the spring, autumn and winter. The small bay is backed with sand dunes that dogs will love exploring.
Insider’s tip: If you’re visiting as a family, be sure to explore the rock pools at either end of the beach. They harbour all sorts of sea creatures and it’s the perfect out of season activity to keep the little ones occupied!
Hele Bay
On the outskirts of the popular seaside town of Ilfracombe in North Devon, Hele Bay is the ideal beach for those who like a little peace and quiet. Dogs will love a paddle in the safety of the many rock pools that line the beach.
Insider’s tip: Visit at low tide to see the secret ‘smuggler’s caves.
East Devon
Dawlish Warren
Dawlish Warren beach has the feel of a traditional British seaside location with amusements, shops and ice cream stalls lining the beach. Our four-legged friends will be more interested in the miles of soft golden sand on the beach.
Insider’s tip: Dawlish Warren is great for families – be sure to make some change as the children will no doubt be begging to have a go on some of the pay-as-you-go rides near the car park. For a more educational visit, take a wander through the nature reserve behind the beach which is a habitat for thousands of native and migrating birds. Dogs are permitted in most areas on a lead, although some areas are dog free to protect the wildlife.
Exmouth Beach
Exmouth beach is a long sandy arc with dramatic views of the surrounding coastline. Wander along from Exmouth harbour and enjoy this wonderful two-mile stretch of sandy beach. Your four-legged friend will love long walks along this beach.
Insider’s tip: Windy days bring kite surfers in their dozens to zip up and down the beach, providing a spectacle for those braving the windy weather for a walk along the seafront. If you’re tempted to give it a go yourself, head for Edge Watersports where you’ll find expert tuition and equipment to hire.
We hope you like our recommendations on the best dog-friendly beaches in Devon. To stay connected with us & be the first one to know when a blog goes live follow us on Instagram & Facebook or join our mailing list.
