Devon is a paradise for both dogs and their owners, with plenty of beautiful beaches where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf together. Whether you’re looking for a long walk along the coastline or simply want to let your furry friend run free on the beach, there are plenty of options in Devon. In this blog post, we’ve rounded up the top 15 dog-friendly beaches in Devon that are perfect all year round. So grab your leash and let’s discover some paw-some spots!
Best Dog Friendly Beaches in Devon – Top 15 (Map Included)
1. Saunton Sands
Saunton Sands in Braunton is a paradise for dog owners looking to take long walks with their furry friends. The vast sandy beach is backed by rolling dunes that offer spectacular views of the coast. As you make your way down to the water, you’ll pass through stunning scenery that will take your breath away.
This beach is perfect for dogs who love to run and play, as there’s plenty of space for them to do so safely. You can let your pooch off the leash and watch as they frolic in the sand and surf.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even explore some of the nearby trails that wind through the dunes. This is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying some quality time with your four-legged companion.
Saunton Sands offers an unforgettable experience for both dogs and their owners alike. So grab your leash and come discover this paw-some spot!
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2. Westward Ho!
Westward Ho! is a wonderful dog-friendly beach that offers plenty of space for your furry friend to run and play. Located in Bideford, this expansive sandy beach is perfect for dogs who love the sand and surf.
The beach provides ample opportunities for games of fetch or a swim in the waves. The long stretch of coastline means there’s plenty of room for dogs to roam, whether they want to explore the shoreline or chase after seagulls.
In addition to its vast expanse, Westward Ho! also boasts stunning views across the Atlantic Ocean. You can take a walk along the South West Coast Path and enjoy breathtaking vistas while giving your dog some exercise.
The surrounding area has many amenities that cater to both humans and their four-legged companions. There are plenty of nearby cafes where you can stop off for refreshments before continuing your day at the beach.
Westward Ho! is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a dog-friendly seaside retreat with lots of space and beautiful surroundings.
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3. Instow Beach
Instow Beach is a hidden gem in Devon, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the bigger tourist attraction South West region. The beach offers stunning views of the estuary, with its peaceful waters perfect for a relaxing swim with your furry friend.
One of the main attractions at Instow Beach is its picturesque scenery. With panoramic views of the coastline and rolling hills in the distance, this beach provides an ideal backdrop for any dog owner looking to capture some memorable moments with their canine companion.
The calm waters make it an excellent spot for dogs to enjoy a refreshing dip without being intimidated by strong waves or currents. Whether you have a seasoned swimmer or just want to splash around in shallow water, Instow Beach offers something for every type of dog.
Even if swimming isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty to explore on this charming little beach. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline while enjoying breathtaking views across North Devon, or let your pooch run free through the sandy dunes that border one end of the beach.
Instow Beach is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for somewhere off the beaten path where both you and your furry friend can relax and soak up some natural beauty without having to deal with crowds or noise.
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4. Croyde Bay
Croyde Bay in Braunton is a popular destination for surfers, but it’s also a great beach for dogs. As one of the few beaches in North Devon that allows dogs year-round, you and your furry friend can enjoy the beautiful scenery and waves together.
However, during the summer months, some areas of Croyde Bay have restrictions on where dogs are allowed. These restrictions are typically in place to protect nesting birds or other wildlife that may be present at the time.
If you’re planning a trip to Croyde Bay with your dog during peak season, be sure to check for any signs or information about restricted areas before heading out onto the sand. It’s important to respect these guidelines so that everyone can continue enjoying this beautiful beach all year round.
Croyde Bay is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a dog-friendly beach in Devon. With its stunning views, there’s something here for everyone – including your four-legged companion! Croyde Bay is one of the best surfing beaches in Devon.
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5. Barricane Beach
Barricane Beach in Woolacombe is a hidden gem that’s perfect for dogs to explore. This beach is known for its stunning sunset views, which makes it the ideal spot to take your furry friend for an evening walk.
One of the unique features of Barricane Beach is its rock pools. Dogs will love exploring these natural formations and finding all sorts of interesting creatures living within them. It’s not uncommon to find small crabs, starfish, and other marine life in the rock pools at this beach.
Beyond the rock pools, there’s plenty more to explore at Barricane Beach. The vast stretch of sand offers ample space for your dog to run around and play fetch while you soak up some sun or take in the beautiful scenery.
If you’re looking for a quieter spot away from bigger crowds, then Barricane Beach may be just what you need. While it may not have all the amenities of larger beaches, it does offer a peaceful getaway where you can spend quality time with your beloved pet.
If you’re searching for a dog-friendly destination that combines stunning sunset views with ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation by both pets and their owners alike – look no further than Barricane Beach!
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6. Slapton Sands
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly beach in Devon with beautiful coastal views and plenty of walking opportunities, Slapton Sands is definitely worth a visit. Located near Kingsbridge, this long shingle beach offers ample space for dogs to run around and enjoy themselves.
But the real highlight of Slapton Sands is the nature reserve nearby. With its diverse range of habitats, including wetlands, woodlands and meadows, it’s an ideal place for dog owners who love exploring new environments with their furry friends.
As you walk along the beach at Slapton Sands, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as seals or dolphins that can often be seen swimming offshore. There are also plenty of rock pools to explore if your pooch likes to splash around in the water.
In addition to its natural beauty, Slapton Sands has some interesting history too – during World War II it was used as a training ground by American forces preparing for D-Day landings.
Whether you’re interested in nature walks or just want to relax on a beautiful beach with your dog by your side, Slapton Sands has something special to offer all year round.
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7. South Sands
South Sands in Salcombe is a beautiful sandy beach that welcomes dogs all year round. It’s the perfect spot for a day trip with your furry friend, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take the dog-friendly ferry to get there.
The beach itself offers stunning views of the coastline and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal location for swimming and sunbathing. The sand is soft and clean, which means your pup can enjoy digging without getting too dirty.
Aside from lounging on the shore, South Sands also has plenty of activities to offer both humans and dogs alike. You can explore the coastal path or rent a kayak or paddleboard to venture out into the water.
If you’re feeling peckish after all that activity, why not head over to The Beach House? This restaurant is located right on the beachfront and offers delicious food with stunning views.
South Sands is an excellent destination for dog owners looking for a scenic spot to relax by the sea whilst spending time with their four-legged companion.
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8. Teignmouth Back Beach
Teignmouth Back Beach is a hidden gem that many people overlook when visiting Teignmouth. Unlike the main beach, this quieter spot offers a more peaceful experience for you and your furry friend.
The beach is located at the mouth of the River Teign, providing stunning views of the estuary and surrounding countryside. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal location to enjoy a leisurely stroll with your four-legged companion.
Since this beach is quieter compared to its neighbouring counterpart, it’s perfect if you’re looking for a little bit more privacy. You can relax on the sand while your dog plays in the sea or explore nearby rock pools.
Although not as big as other beaches in Devon, Teignmouth Back Beach still provides ample space for dogs to run around freely without disturbing others. There are also several amenities close by such as restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite after your walk.
If you’re searching for an idyllic spot to unwind with your furry friend while enjoying some picturesque scenery away from crowds, then Teignmouth Back Beach ticks all boxes!
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9. Goodrington Sands
Goodrington Sands in Paignton is a great option for dog owners who want their furry friends to enjoy the beach all year round. This sandy beach has a dedicated area where dogs can run, play and swim without any restrictions or limitations.
Located on the edge of Torbay, this dog-friendly beach offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for those who love water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding or even just swimming with their pets.
With its long stretch of golden sand and calm waters, Goodrington Sands is also perfect for families looking to spend quality time together with their canine companions. There are plenty of facilities nearby including cafes, restaurants and public toilets making it easy to spend a whole day at the beach.
The best part about Goodrington Sands? You don’t have to worry about seasonal restrictions because dogs are welcome here all year round! With ample space for everyone – both human and furry – there’s no need to compromise on fun when visiting this beautiful Devonian gem.
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10. Broadsands Beach
Broadsands Beach in Paignton is a great spot for dog owners looking to let their furry friends run free. It’s another one of Devon’s fantastic dog-friendly beaches that welcomes dogs all year round.
The beach boasts ample space for dogs to enjoy playing fetch, running around or swimming in the sea. With crystal-clear waters and soft sands, this beach provides an ideal location for both you and your pet to relax and soak up the sun together.
In addition to its stunning views and serene atmosphere, Broadsands Beach has plenty of facilities such as parking, toilets, cafes and the best restaurants nearby. This makes it convenient for you and your furry friend to spend a whole day out exploring the coastline without any worries.
If you’re looking for a calm escape with your beloved canine companion, Broadsands is definitely worth considering. The long stretch of sand overlooking turquoise blue waters is something that will leave both you and your pooch feeling relaxed all day long!
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11. Beer Beach
Beer Beach, located in the quaint fishing village of Beer, is a hidden gem on the Jurassic Coast. This pebble beach offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and sea, making it a popular spot for dog owners looking to explore this beautiful coastline.
One of the unique features of Beer Beach is that it’s dog-friendly all year round. Your furry companion can join you on your coastal walk or even take a dip in the refreshing water during warmer months.
In addition to its natural beauty, Beer also boasts plenty of local amenities. From charming cafes serving up delicious treats to independent shops selling handmade crafts and gifts, there’s something for everyone here.
For those interested in history and culture, there are also several attractions nearby such as Pecorama Gardens and Model Railway Exhibition or Seaton Tramway which offer fun activities for both humans and dogs alike!
If you’re looking for a peaceful yet breathtakingly beautiful destination to visit with your furry friend in tow, then Beer Beach should definitely be on your list!
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12. Sandy Bay
Sandy Bay in Exmouth is a beautiful beach that welcomes dogs all year round. The sandy shore provides ample space for your furry friend to run around and play, while the sand dunes and cliffs make for a stunning backdrop to your walk.
As you stroll along the beach with your dog by your side, take in the sights of the rolling waves and listen to the sounds of seagulls overhead. It’s truly a peaceful and serene experience that both you and your pup will enjoy.
The sand dunes also offer an exciting terrain for dogs to explore, providing them with new scents and sights to discover. They’ll love running up and down these natural formations, getting their exercise in while having fun at the same time.
And if you’re lucky enough to catch a clear day, be sure to look out towards sea as well – on a good day you can see all the way across Lyme Bay!
Sandy Bay is an excellent choice for dog owners who are looking for somewhere scenic but not too busy where they can enjoy some quality time with their furry companions.
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13. Budleigh Salterton Beach
Budleigh Salterton Beach is a hidden gem located in the charming town of Budleigh Salterton. This peaceful beach offers stunning views of the coastline, making it a great destination for dog owners looking to take their furry friends on a leisurely stroll.
What makes this beach unique is its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by cliffs and rock formations, you’ll feel as though you’re walking through an untouched natural wonderland.
The pebble beach provides an interesting terrain for your pup to explore while still being easy on their paws. The water may be too cold for swimming, but dogs love playing fetch along the shore or simply enjoying the fresh sea air.
There are also plenty of nearby cafes and restaurants that welcome four-legged companions, so you can enjoy a meal with your furry friend after your walk.
Budleigh Salterton Beach is not only pet-friendly but also offers stunning natural beauty that will leave both humans and dogs feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.
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14. Dawlish Warren Beach
Dawlish Warren Beach in Dawlish is a popular destination for dog owners who want to enjoy the sun, sea and sand with their furry friends. This beach boasts miles of sandy shoreline where dogs are welcome all year round.
One of the best things about this beach is its spaciousness, providing ample room for your dog to run around and play fetch without disturbing other beachgoers. The soft sand also makes it comfortable for both you and your pet to stroll along the shore.
Aside from playing on the sand, you and your four-legged pal can take a dip in the refreshing waters of the English Channel during low tide. Just be sure to bring some towels so that you can dry off after your swim.
While at Dawlish Warren Beach, don’t forget to check out nearby attractions such as nature reserves where visitors can observe various species of birds and animals. You might even catch sight of some seals or dolphins swimming offshore!
Dawlish Warren Beach offers an excellent option for those looking for a dog-friendly spot to enjoy Devon’s beautiful coastline.
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15. Blackpool Sands
Blackpool Sands in Dartmouth is a shingle beach that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests. Despite dogs needing to be kept on a lead at all times, they are still welcome to enjoy this picturesque location.
The beach is well-maintained, making it an ideal spot for enjoying the scenery with your furry companion by your side. The clear waters make it perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, while the clean sand provides ample space for sunbathing.
There are plenty of facilities available including showers, toilets, and food outlets serving up delicious snacks and meals throughout the day. This means you can spend as much time as you like soaking up the tranquil atmosphere without having to worry about anything else.
If you’re looking for something more active, there are also kayaks and stand-up paddleboards available to rent so you can explore even further out into the bay. And if you fancy taking a break from all that activity, why not take a leisurely stroll along one of the many walking trails nearby?
Blackpool Sands is an excellent choice if you’re looking for somewhere beautiful to visit with your dog in Devon. While restrictions may apply regarding where they can go off-leash, there’s no doubt that both you and your furry friend will have a great time exploring this stunning location together!
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Conclusion
Devon is a beautiful county with plenty of dog-friendly beaches to explore all year round. From sandy stretches where your furry friend can run and play, to picturesque pebble coves perfect for peaceful walks along the coastline, there’s something for every dog in Devon.
The Top 15 All Year Around Dog-Friendly Beaches in Devon list includes some fantastic spots that you and your four-legged companion will love. Some offer stunning views of the estuary, while others are known for their rock pools or scenic backdrops.
Whatever type of beach you’re looking for, be sure to check out one or more of these amazing destinations on your next trip to Devon. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a great spot where both you and your canine friend can relax and enjoy the beauty of this coastal paradise. So pack up your bags (and a few toys for Fido), grab your leash and head out today!
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