Top 5 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Cornwall

Dog-Friendly Cornwall Beaches Near The Rosevine Hotel

If you are visiting Cornwall, you are probably excited about exploring its picturesque beaches, taking in the stunning coastland, and enjoying its breathtaking scenery. If you are bringing your dog with you, you have even more about which to get excited! Cornwall is a haven for dogs and their owners, with an abundance of dog-friendly beaches where you and your canine companion can spend the day romping on the sand, playing in the surf, and just generally enjoying yourselves. Stay at The Rosevine Hotel, and you will have a lovely place near the beaches to relax with your dog at the end of the day. Cornwall on the whole is a dog-friendly destination, and here, we offer a guide to five of the most dog-friendly beaches in all of Cornwall, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your canine friend.

Finding the Best Beaches for Your Best Friend

Many beaches in Cornwall allow dogs in some capacity, perhaps on a lead or for a limited time of the year. For a beach to truly be one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall, though, we looked for spots with fewer limitations and more freedom for you and your pup to truly let loose and enjoy yourselves. Here are our top five picks:

holywell bay beach
  1. Holywell Bay Beach
    This mile-long stretch of golden sand, bordered by high dunes, is located about six miles west of Newquay. It is the perfect place for your dog to explore and play, and this National Trust beach is truly dog-friendly. In addition to being allowed to roam freely, without the constraint of leads, dogs are provided amenities like water bowls, dog bins, and biscuits. The waters are clean and safe, making this beach popular for swimmers and surfers alike. The only word of caution we would like to provide is to be cautious of adders, which are common in the dunes during the summer months. Otherwise, Holywell Bay Beach is the perfect spot for you and your pet to enjoy a day by the sea. If you plan to explore the cliff tops, bring a dog lead, since you are likely to encounter sheep grazing on the land on the Kelseys.
  2. Watergate Bay
    One of Cornwall’s most renowned beaches, Watergate Bay features two miles of sandy beach during low tide. Here, dogs are welcome year-round, and the rock pools, caves, and expansive stretch of sand make for a perfect day of exploration. It is best to stay off the cliff tops, which can be unstable, and be mindful that when the tide comes in, some of the beach is cut off, particularly the further-off spots. In fact, at high tide the beach essentially disappears, which can be inconvenient if you are out with your dog. As long as you are aware of the tides, you should have a spectacular time on this gorgeous beach. When you need to stop for refreshment, it is easy to find a nearby eatery where dogs are welcome, so that you can both relax and enjoy the gorgeous surroundings. Watergate Bay is a delight for owner and dog alike, the ideal dog-friendly beach destination.
  3. Porthluney Cove
    In South Cornwall, you will find this exceptionally dog-friendly beach, open to your canine friend even on the busiest of summer days. It is easy to access this large sandy beach from the convenient car park, and your dog is allowed to run freely along the water’s edge, though dogs are requested to remain on leads from April to October. It is a stunning spot, backed by the picturesque Caerhays Castle and Garden, and there is ample space to enjoy a relaxing day with your dog. The welcoming atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make this a favourite among dog owners, and the freedom to romp makes it a favourite among dogs.
  4. Crantock Beach
    If you are exploring the popular resort town of Newquay, you owe it to yourself and your dog to pop over to Crantock Beach. Open to dogs all year round, this beach has a unique situation, bordered by the cliffs of the Pentire headlands on one side and the Gannel river on the other. In between, you will find wide stretches of golden sand, beautiful, grass-topped dunes, and green hills. Even though it is only 15 minutes from Newquay, Crantock Beach is relatively quiet, so it is perfect for swimming, surfing and snorkelling, as well as wild walks. There is a lifeguard from May to September, and the beach has plenty of amenities, including cafes, toilets, and parking. It is a National Trust beach, safe and welcoming for dogs, though it is important to be mindful of the potentially dangerous river currents as you and your dog explore the area.
  5. Carne Beach
    This hidden gem, nestled on the Roseland Peninsula, on Gerrans Bay, is known for its seclusion and natural beauty. At low tide, it connects with neighbouring Pendower beach to create an extensive sandy area, with long stretches of sand perfect for walking with your dog. The beach is maintained by the National Trust, and dogs are welcome to enjoy this pristine natural environment, all year long, exploring the many rock pools and strolling on the soft, white sand. Further, the beach is surrounded by Roseland Heritage Coast, with a wealth of walking trails that offer stunning views, wildlife spotting, and plenty to explore. The café options are limited, so we suggest bringing a picnic. It is the perfect place if you are looking for a quiet, idyllic beach day with your dog, surrounded by the glory of nature. Though it feels remote and wild, it is easily accessible from the car park.

Discover Pet-Friendly Cornwall

The idyllic countryside lends itself to walks with your dog, and even wild swimming. Even attractions like the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the Minack Theatre, Launceston Castle, St Mawes Castle, and the Lappa Valley Railway allow well-behaved dogs on leads to visit.

Bodmin Keep, one of the finest military museums in the UK, allows dogs throughout the museum. The Cornish countryside is ideal for cross-country running or biking with your dog, and there are excellent spots for paddleboarding, providing a fun and adventurous experience for both you and your furry friend.

When you need refreshment, there are plenty of cafes, pubs, restaurants, and inns that will welcome you and your pet.

Dog-Friendly Luxury Accommodation at Our Cornwall Hotel

When you and your pup are ready to hit the beach in Cornwall, The Rosevine offers welcoming, dog-friendly accommodations, dependant on availability. Our rooms are designed to feel like your home away from home. Our charming boutique hotel is beautifully situated in the picturesque coastal village of Portscatho, in a beautifully restored Georgian house, where timeless elegance blends with contemporary design for an atmosphere that is at once relaxed and sophisticated.

Our family friendly apartments are suitable for two adults and up to three children, with some designed to accommodate a dog, so that your four-legged family member can enjoy the beaches and you can all come back to relax in luxury. With a stylish master bedroom, a secondary bedroom for children, a kitchenette, and a large living room, these apartments are truly the best combination of a luxury hotel and the comforts of home, giving families space to enjoy their time away.

Many of our rooms offer stunning views of the sea, and our location is a short walk from the coastline, within easy reach of the charming shops, galleries, and local pubs in the village. When you are ready for the perfect Cornwall getaway, it is easy to book your stay online. Should you need more information or directions, call +44 (0) 1872 580 206 or contact us through our website.

Bath
Lake District
Cornwall

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