Beaches for Dogs

Top 15 Dog Friendly Beaches in Cornwall within half-an-Hour from our Porthleven retreats

Loe Bar Beach

Loe Bar beach is a half mile shingle bank which separates the Loe, the largest natural fresh water lake in Cornwall, from the sea. Loe Bar was originally the mouth of the River Cober which led to a harbour in Helston. However, by the 13th century the bar had cut Helston off from the sea and formed the pool.

Coverack Beach, The Lizard

Situated on the eastern coast of the Lizard peninsula, Coverack Beach was recommended in 2014 by the Marine Conservation Society for its excellent water quality.  The beach lies in the heart of a picturesque Cornish fishing village and is made up of sand and shingle. Often a favourite with divers, it is easy to see why. Nearby are the Manacles (a group of rocks) which have contributed to the sinking of many ships.

Mexico Towans, Hayle

Mexico Towans is located in Hayle, stretching four miles from the mouth of the estuary to the lighthouse at Godrevy Point, in the direction of Gwithian. This beautiful sandy beach is surrounded by impressive sand dunes providing the perfect, sheltered spot for the whole family.

Kenneggy Sands, Penzance

Kenneggy Sands is a secret beach in Penzance, accessible only on foot. At low tide, park at Praa Sands and walk twenty minutes along the South West Coast path to find the secluded sandy beach. Dogs are very much welcome but do keep in mind that there are no facilities and it cannot be accessed by cars.

Porthkidney Beach, near St Ives

Situated across the river mouth from Hayle and just two miles from the harbour town of St Ives, the Porthkidney beach is characteristically quiet- although the reason for this is unknown! During low tide, the expanse of sand can reach up to a mile providing plenty of roaming space for you and your dog. The beach is relatively sheltered at the western end due to it being surrounded by sand dunes so it is ideal for family activities. Porthkidney beach welcomes dogs throughout the year though ask that dogs remain on their lead when walking on the footpath from St Uny Church to Porthkidney Sands.

Nansidwell Beach, Falmouth

Situated between Maenporth and Mawnan Smith, a footpath will lead you down through a scenic wooded area until you reach Nansidwell Beach after walking for ten minutes. The beach is made up of sand, shingle and the occasional rock. If your dog is looking for a smaller, quieter beach, Nansidwell Beach is the perfect choice!

Within an Hour

Holywell Bay, Newquay

Holywell Bay is situated just 6 miles west of Newquay and whilst the majority of Newquay beaches welcome dogs, a quieter beach a small journey away from the town provides a great summer-holiday alternative! Cliffs protect the beach whilst the bordering sand dunes provide cover during the inevitable British rain. Holywell Bay has a generous expanse of sand and rock pools offering an ideal dog-walking destination. Newquay is also within an hour from Caerhay’s Castle!

Watergate Bay, near Newquay

Watergate Bay is just 3 miles from Newquay: a 15 minute drive or a 45 minute, strenuous, walk. It is a large bay with fine golden sand expanding for two miles- ideal for dog walkers! Watergate Bay has achieved the highest standard for UK bathing water and hosts many events and festivals including Polo on the Beach. The Bay is surrounded by pubs, cafés and restaurants to re-fuel after a day of exploring with the family.

Fistral Beach, Newquay

Fistral Beach is world-renowned within the surfing community as it boasts powerful, hollow waves able to reach 8 feet high! What might not be as celebrated is the fact that it is dog-friendly. Fistral Beach is a long, sandy beach surrounded by dramatic rocks and cliffs. There are a number of amenities such as showers, toilets, car parking, cafés and restaurants.

Pedn Vounder, Porthcurno

Pedn Vounder is noted as one of the best beaches in Cornwall due to the impressive Teryn Dinas cliffs and the famous Logan Rock. Just be aware that access is provided via a steep path down a cliff; it is also worth noting that it is an unofficial nudist beach. Dog-friendly and with beautifully clear water, this is definitely a beach that celebrates nature.

Dog Friendly Beaches near our Caerhay’s Castle Cottages

Within Half an Hour

Porthluney Cove Beach, Caerhay

Also recommended in 2014 by the Marine Conservation Society for its excellent water quality, Porthluney Cove Beach is the place to be for dogs wanting a paddle. The beach is also for swimmers too! It’s well facilitated, as directly behind the beach is a car park, seasonal café, picnic area and toilet facilities.

Gorran Haven, St Austell

Gorran Haven is just four miles from Caerhay’s Castle so, bearing in mind that St Austell’s main beaches prohibit dogs during the summer, this is the perfect spot for those staying in our Caerhay’s properties. Despite welcoming dogs, Gorran Haven is uncompromised boasting a beautiful sandy beach with a small harbour at the end, sheltered by Dodman Point. It is also well-facilitated with a beach shop, pub, car parking and toilets. It should be noted, dogs must remain on their leads.

Within an Hour

Bedruthan Steps, Mawgan Porth

Bedruthan Steps is one of the natural wonders of Cornwall due to the colossal sea stacks positioned across the beach; legend has it, these were the stepping stones of Giant Bedruthan. The Bedruthan beach is owned by the National Trust and at low tide reveals a mile long stretch of golden sand, ideal for letting your dog run free. It is worth noting that to access this beach you have to descend down steep stone steps which may discourage some visitors.

Lantic Bay, Looe

Lantic Bay in Looe is a secluded and stunning beach positioned between Fowey and Polperro. You can access Lantic Bay either by boat or, if you would prefer to walk, use the NT car park near Fowey to follow the footpath across the road and into a field. The beach is revealed as you near the top of the hill, exposing a steep path down to the bay; it is recommended that you take your time to enjoy the breath-taking views! It is, of course, completely dog friendly throughout the year.

Harlyn Bay, Padstow

Harlyn Bay is renowned as being one of the safest beaches in Cornwall and thus is very popular with families. The bay itself is crescent shaped and filled with yellow sand and pebbles whilst surrounded by dunes. Just west of Padstow, Harlyn Bay is ideal for walkers with routes leading to Mother Ivey’s Bay and Trevose Head