Pooch-Friendly Playgrounds
(AKA The Beach!) Grab the lead, pack the treats and dive into our guide to Devon’s top dog-friendly beaches.
If you’re anything like us, taking the dog along for a beach day is non-negotiable. So, when we started exploring Devon with our dog in tow, it was like hitting the jackpot for dog-friendly beaches! Picture this: gorgeous coastline, dreamy villages, and endless stretches of sand to explore. It’s the ultimate playground for both humans and dogs alike.
But here’s the best part—some of the most jaw-dropping beaches around here are practically made for dogs! Our furry friend had a blast bounding through the surf, chasing seagulls (he’s yet to catch one—don’t worry), and soaking up the best of Devon’s outdoors.
So, are you up for a doggy beach adventure? Check out our top picks!
1/ Bantham
Oh, Bantham. It's a sandy gem on the southern coast of Devon that feels like a hug for both humans and dogs. This long, vast stretch of sand is perfect for letting your dog unleash their inner sand monster. Whether chasing the waves or digging for buried treasure, there’s enough room to let them go wild. Plus, the views of Burgh Island? Chef's kiss.
Good news: Dogs are welcome all year round! Just a heads-up, they’re restricted to specific areas in the summer months (The River Beach from Oct-May), but don’t worry, there’s still plenty of space for them to roll around. And when you’re all beached out, why not head over to the nearby Gastrobus, Estuary View Café or The Sloop Inn for a well-earned treat (for both you and the dog).
2/ Saunton Sands
If you’re after a beach where your dog can stretch their legs AND you get to feast your eyes on some stunning scenery, Saunton Sands is the one. It’s got everything—a three-mile stretch of golden sand, seagulls to chase, and even enough room for a frisbee toss. Dogs are allowed year-round, although just like Bantham, the summer months see a little leash action at the beach's western end. The best part? After all that running, you can take a pitstop at the dog-friendly cafés Beachside Grill or Saunton Beach Cafe for a coffee (or even a sneaky sausage for your pup). Everyone’s a winner at Saunton Sands!
3/ Blackpool Sands
Now, don’t let the name fool you—Blackpool Sands is a quiet, tranquil paradise where dogs are more than welcome! From October to April, they’ve got free rein to run as wild as they like, while in the warmer months, they need to stay on a lead. Don’t worry, though—there’s a great spot to chill on the beach with your dog, pebbles and all.
Hungry? Check out the dog-friendly takeaway cafe. You can grab a snack or a refreshing drink while keeping an eye on your dog, who’ll probably be splashing about in the crystal-clear water.
Or why not pop into the Café Lounge and Restaurant - from 1st October to 30th April, well behaved dogs on a lead are now welcome inside the Restaurant, as long as they are clean and dry! To help with this, the team at Blackpool Sands have installed a drying station just outside :)
4/ Woolacombe Beach
If there were an award for “Most Dog-Friendly Beach”, Woolacombe would take the crown (It did actually win the coveted The Sunday Times Beach of the Year in 2021!). Woolacombe is three miles of golden sand, with more space than you could imagine for your dog to go wild. Whether digging, fetching, or having a go at wave-jumping, this beach is their oyster.
Dogs are allowed here year-round, with a few seasonal restrictions in summer. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, why not take the South West Coast Path for a wander? The views are epic, and trust us, your dog will love the sniffing opportunities!
We should mention that Woolacombe and nearby Mortehoe are bursting with eateries, from cafes, takeaways, and tea rooms to pubs and restaurants—an impressive number of which are very dog-friendly.
5/ Croyde Bay
Croyde Bay, anyone? This iconic beach is famous for surfers, but it’s also a paradise for dogs who love wide-open spaces. Sure, there are seasonal restrictions during peak season (no dogs from 1st May to 30th September) but don't fret—there’s still plenty of space for your dog to have a blast in the off-lead areas.
The real gem? After a day of beach fun, you can stroll into the charming village of Croyde, which boasts dog-friendly pubs and cafés. Ice cream vans often lurk around in summer, so treat yourself (and your dog, who’s probably eyeing up your cone). Why not check out The Thatch, or Café Croyde Bay.
6/ Slapton Sands
For a more peaceful, laid-back vibe, Slapton Sands is your go-to. This pebbly beach offers dogs a year-round adventure—no seasonal restrictions here! It’s perfect for a quieter walk with your pooch, away from the hustle and bustle. If you want some variety, wander through the nearby Slapton Ley Nature Reserve. It’s a tranquil haven, ideal for a bit of wildlife spotting. Why not enjoy the vibes and panoramic views of the lake and the sea (spoilt for choice!) from the Torcross Boathouse Restaurant with your trusty hound (who is hopefully ready to curl up for a timely snooze).
Credit: Lobster Pod Bistro
7/ Hope Cove
Hope Cove is a little slice of South Devon coastal heaven. It’s small, secluded, and perfect for a dog-friendly escape with minimal distractions. While the main beach has seasonal restrictions, there’s a hidden gem of a smaller beach nearby where your dog can frolic without a care in the world. It’s just you, your dog, and the stunning cliffs surrounding you. Bliss!
And when you’re done with the beach (which is a struggle, we know), you could decamp to the Lobster Pod Bistro. Perched just above the beach, these innovative pods are designed for comfort and fun, rotating to make the most of the panoramic views. They even have Bluetooth sound systems and heating for the cosy factor. Each pod can hold groups of 8-10 and you can indulge in various delicious options, from seafood sharing platters and fresh lobster to pizzas, the fish of the day, and more—many are also available from their convenient takeaway menu. If you’d prefer to keep moving, you can also wander into the village to one of the cosy dog-friendly cafés.
8/ Putsborough Sands
Just a short jaunt from the more bustling Croyde Beach, Putsborough Sands is the quieter sibling that offers all the same delights—minus the crowds. Known for its breathtaking beauty, Putsborough is a haven for beach lovers. This beach itself provides superb bathing, and the rolling waves of the Atlantic make it a surfers' paradise. But trust us, your dog will also love running free, playing fetch, and chasing other dogs.
Happily, Putsborough Beach stands out for being dog-friendly throughout the year - a rare find - although there is a minor restriction, hounds are not allowed on the southernmost section of the beach— the bit on the left as you descend from the car park—between May 1 and September 30. But, the nearly two-mile stretch of remaining beach offers plenty of space for dogs to roam off-lead, making it a perfect spot for your furry friends to enjoy the sand and surf all year round.
Whether walking with your dog along the shoreline or letting them play in the rock pools, Putsborough is a win-win destination for everyone. And if you don’t pack your own picnic and fancy a cheeky snack or two, you can always head over to nearby Braunton, Woolacombe or Braunton for a wealth of dog-friendly eateries.
See? Devon isn’t just a beachy paradise for us—it’s a total doggy dream come true! From the wide-open sands of Woolacombe to the relaxed charm of Slapton Sands, there’s no shortage of beach adventures to be enjoyed. Whether your dog is all about chasing waves or digging the perfect sand pit, Devon’s beaches have totally got it covered!
