10 best year-round dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall
Beach holidays are the best – especially if you love the smell of salt and seaweed in your nose, enjoy rolling in the sand and relish shaking the salty water off your coat after a dip in the sea (and all over whoever’s standing nearby). We’re talking about our four-legged friends, of course – and Cornwall has plenty of beautiful sandy beaches for your dog to sniff around, frolic on and swim at. There are seasonal restrictions on many wonderful Cornish beaches, however, which means dog lovers and their pups will need to think outside the box when it comes to beach walkies.
Whether you’re visiting one of our gorgeous holiday cottages for a relaxing summer beach break or looking forward to some bracing coastal walks in cooler months, we’ve rounded up 10 of Cornwall’s best dog-friendly beaches, whatever the time of year.
Watergate Bay, near Newquay, north Cornwall: best for letting your pup run free
Time your walk for low tide if you want to give your dog a really good run on Watergate Bay’s two miles of golden sand. If you’re an early riser, head down to the beach in the morning to start the day right, when you’ll only have to share it with a few surfers. Pop into the chic Beach Hut for breakfast, where dogs are welcome inside and out.
Mawgan Porth, near Newquay, north Cornwall: best for a quiet dog-friendly family day out
Next door to Watergate Bay is Mawgan Porth. This quiet expanse is just far enough from Newquay to avoid the summer crowds but has the same golden sands and beautiful coastline. There’s plenty of beach even at high tide for your pupper to gad about freely, as well as lots of shops to pick up a ball.
Harlyn Bay, near Padstow, north Cornwall: best for dogs that like to play in the surf
If your dog loves splashing about in the waves, head to Harlyn. This golden sandy beach is an ideal family day out, with great swimming, rock pools to explore and surf for all ages and abilities. Coastal walks to Mother Ivey’s Bay and Trevose Head offer up spectacular views as well as tantalising dog-friendly scents, like rabbits!
Trebarwith Strand, near Tintagel, north Cornwall: best for adventurous pups
National Trust-owned Trebarwith Strand Beach is best explored with your canine companion at low tide. The sea retreats to reveal a wide expanse of sandy beach, with plenty of room to race about, as well as intriguing caves and delightful rock pools to explore. It also has stunning cliff-top views, as standard.
Whitsand Bay, near Looe, south Cornwall: best for wild, crowd-free walks
Tucked away on the Rame Peninsula in south Cornwall is Whitsand Bay: miles of gorgeous, uncrowded golden sands, backed by towering cliffs. Your woofer can roam freely here, and enjoy splashing about in the sea or playing in rock pools. Stop for ice creams at the Eddystone Beach Cafe at the bottom of Tregonhawke Cliff. For a longer walk, head from Whitsands over to Cawsand and Kingsand via the South West Coast Path, taking in stunning sea views.
Gwynver Beach, near Sennen, north Cornwall: best for an exciting day out
Tricky access and no facilities means Gwynver is quiet and crowd free, making it an exciting day out for a family with older children. Wind your way down a steep path through granite cliffs and be rewarded with stunning golden sands and wonderful waves. Shelter under the trees that border the beach on hot days and don’t forget to bring lots of water to refresh your four-legged family members.
Par Sands, St Austell, south Cornwall: best for a peaceful stroll
If you’re after a quiet stroll with your pooch, head to Par Sands, where the views are varied and interesting, with the Roseland Peninsula and the old china clay works in the distance. Your pup will love exploring the grassy sand dunes that back onto the beach, gambolling around on the golden sands or splashing in the crystal-clear waters.
Loe Bar, near Porthleven, south Cornwall: best for hounds who don’t love the water
Does your pup love the beach but hate swimming? Then Loe Bar is the beach for you. Renowned for its treacherous waters, swimming is banned here, which means fewer people and more space to run around. Take your dog here for a tranquil, relaxing walk but be mindful of the powerful waves, strong currents and steep beach – ensure you keep an eye on your beloved pooch.
Bedruthan Steps, north Cornwall: best for energetic dogs and owners
Sandwiched between Mawgan Porth and Porthcothan, Bedruthan Steps is a true Cornish gem but one for hounds with energy. Secluded, quiet and involving lots of steps up and down to the sandy beach, you’ll be repaid for your efforts in the form of jaw-dropping views and weird and wonderful rock formations. After a day playing down on the beach, reward your pup with a drink of something cool at the top. Then sit back, relax and watch the sunset together – bliss.
Bosahan Cove, Helford, west Cornwall: best for exploring a secret cove
If you fancy adventurous walkies with your dog in tow, head to the hidden gem of Bosahan Cove. Nestled between St Anthony and Helford Village, you can reach this secluded little spot through the beautiful Bosahan Gardens. Relax on the soft sand and watch the boats bob on crystal clear waters of the Helford Estuary, while your pup lets off some steam and has a splash about in the river.
After a day of sun, sand and surf, head back to one of our beachside dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall to put your feet and paws up.