Throughout Cornwall there are so many dog-friendly beaches to choose from you may be spoilt for choice. Some beaches do have seasonal restrictions on dogs, so we have created a list of some of the best north Cornish dog beaches that allow your fluffy friends all year round. These are the places for you to explore Cornwall whilst letting your friend go splashing in the sea, digging in the sand or playing in the sand dunes to their heart’s content.
Rock Beach – If you’re not looking to go far, then Rock Beach is the perfect one for you. One of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall, Rock offers an expanse of dunes, mixed with some wooded paths and by-the-sea walks. There are plenty of opportunities for your dog to explore. There is also a great variety of dog-friendly cafés and restaurants, including The Mariners Pub.
Porthilly – Also right on the doorstep of our holiday cottages is Porthilly. This adorable cove is available at high and low tides and is perfect for swimming at high tide if you feel the urge to join your buddy for a dip.
A stream runs down the beach and is the ideal depth for doggies a bit on the smaller side or for those less confident in the water. While the beach can be muddy, its proximity to our cottages means that you won’t have to worry about putting them back in the car, instead, they can go straight in for the garden hose treatment.
Daymer Bay – An old-time favourite for local dog walkers, this beach offers everything. Dunes, a hidden forest walk, rock pools, Brae Hill and an on-site café which is dog-friendly and provides some of the best local ice creams. Connecting to Rock Beach, this place is perfect. If you desire scenic all-round views of the Camel Estuary, challenge your four-legged friend to pull you up Brae Hill and enjoy the breathtaking sights while you both rest at the top. Daymer Bay also had a paid car park on-site if you wanted to bring some extra supplies along for a full beach day.
Greenaway – This hidden gem is quiet, picturesque and charming. Located on the South West Coast Path in-between Daymer Bay and Polzeath, this beach is brilliant if you wish to spend some time walking and enjoying the coastline and spectacular sea views. Accessed via a rocky walk or small staircase, your dog has the freedom to run up and down while staying in sight. This beach is worth a visit, especially if your dog enjoys collecting pebbles.
Tregirls – Treat your furry friend on the ultimate experience to become a salty sea dog. Take the Ferry from Rock to Padstow (dogs are charged at the ferryman’s discretion). Explore Tregirls’ long and sandy beaches which offer plenty of rock pools to dip into and sand dunes to go mad in. Remember to check the tide times before your visit as the estuary at high tide can cut off access to this beautiful stretch of sand.
If you want to tire out your little bundle of joy, then you can extend the walk from Tregirls to the headland towards Trevone and then loop back to Padstow. Or head further inland, following the five mile AONB Camel Trail to Wadebridge. If you fancy it, there is also the option to hire some bikes to help keep up with your furry friend down the Camel Trail.
Port Isaac and Port Gaverne – Home to the popular ITV drama Doc Martin, the quaint town of Port Isaac is a definite must-visit. During low tide you can access the harbour wall, walking along the beach where your dog is free to explore and sniff the moored fishing boats. Back up a steep hill and along the headland is a much quieter Port Gaverne.
Sheltered by the high cliffs this beach offers a range of activities including coasteering – if you and your dog crave a bit of an adrenaline rush. This secluded cove also enjoys its own little pub, perfect to finish the day off with a pint and dog treat.
All of the properties at the Mariners Lettings are dog-friendly, making these Cornish waterside cottages one of the best places for pet owners to stay when visiting the area.
