Wales has a beautiful, varied coastline which is meant to be enjoyed by visitors, regardless of whether they’re human or canine.
This guide to dog-friendly beaches in Wales breaks down some of our favourites from all over the country – from north to south, from Anglesey to the Gower.
Whether you’re looking for a tranquil cove away from the crowds or a bustling stretch of golden sand to enjoy with your furry friend, there is a beach for you! And our range of dog-friendly cottages in Wales features many coastal getaways – pick your pawfect match from the full collection.
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Dog-friendly beaches in North Wales
Harlech Beach
Popular with families and dog walkers, the 4-mile, sandy Harlech Beach offers breathtaking views of the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia). It is backed by glorious dunes and overlooked by the 13th-century Harlech Castle. There are seasonal dog restrictions on a small section of the beach, but the rest welcomes paws all year round.
Barmouth Beach
Barmouth is a fabulous seaside resort and welcomes doggos keen on feeling the sand on their paws. The town’s main beach, Abermaw, is a traditional coastal treat, where there is plenty of space to revel in the gorgeous sights of Cardigan Bay and the picturesque harbour. Seasonal dog restrictions apply on part of the beach. Alongside Harlech and Barmouth, there are plenty of other dog-friendly beaches in North Wales. Take a look at our dog-friendly cottages in Barmouth and enjoy a seaside stay in this pawesome place or take a look at our full range of dog-friendly cottages in North Wales below.
Dog-friendly beaches in South Wales
Jackson's Bay, Barry Island
This pleasant, sandy cove is dog-friendly all year round and is close to all Barry Island has to offer in the way of seaside entertainment. While the beach is a great place for relaxing and dipping your toes in the water, if Fido fancies stretching his legs, there are plenty of opportunities for walkies in the area, with the coast path running past.
Pobbles Bay, Swansea
Heading to this gorgeous cove takes a little effort, but your furry friend will be grateful as it’s dog-friendly all year round. Pobbles Bay sits to the east of Three Cliffs Bay, with the nearest parking being in Southgate, half a mile away. You’ll be treated to some pretty scenery on your stroll to the beach along the coastal path and Fido will be rewarded with plenty of sandy space to play on. Now you’ve got a flavour of what’s on offer, why not sniff out some of the other dog-friendly beaches in South Wales?
Dog-friendly beaches in Pembrokeshire
Marloes Sands
A gem on the Pembrokeshire coastline, spectacular scenery abounds at Marloes Sands. Set foot and paw on this breathtaking expanse of sand and you’ll realise why it’s been used as a filming location several times. The high cliffs add to the natural drama. A National Trust car park sits 0.5 miles from the beach, and the nearby village of Marloes welcomes canine and human visitors alike.
Broad Haven South
A great spot for swimming, surfing and relaxing. Backed by dunes and with the intriguing limestone feature called Church Rock just offshore, Broad Haven South is a dog-friendly must-visit when in this part of Wales. If you feel like a change of scenery, follow the footpath to neighbouring Bosherton Lakes, part of a National Nature Reserve that’s home to otters and wildfowl. The seaside towns and hidden coves make the Pembrokeshire coast an attractive proposition for a pet-friendly holiday. Browse our guide to dog-friendly beaches in Pembrokeshire to find out more or take a look at our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Pembrokeshire below and find your next favourite place to stay.
Dog-friendly beaches on the Gower Peninsula
Three Cliffs Bay
The trio of limestone cliffs which give this beach its name are as spectacular in person as they are in the myriad photos taken of them over the years. The dunes, salt marsh and panoramic views are just as aesthetically appealing. Given the strong tides and currents in this bay, a stroll along the shore is recommended, rather than a swim (or doggy paddle). Doggos are welcome throughout the year.
Oxwich Bay Beach
Another scenic spot on this most picturesque of peninsulas is Oxwich Bay Beach. Open to dogs all year round, it’s a haven for everyone from water sports enthusiasts to sandcastle builders. Being 2 miles long, there is plenty of space for all and active hounds might like to know that at low tide, it's possible to walk as far as Pobbles Bay. With miles of sand to explore and views that will take your breath away, Gower is a popular proposition for a canine caper. Check out our guide for more of the Gower's dog-friendly beaches.
Dog-friendly beaches in Anglesey
Church Bay (Porth Swtan)
This is a rugged, rural beach full of charm on the north-western side of Anglesey – edged with rockpools and backed by steep cliffs (take care on the path down to the beach; it’s worth it, trust us!). Made up of sand and pebbles, it is an enchanting spot to while away the hours. It’s a lovely spot for surfing and body boarding due to the occasional swell coming in from the Irish Sea.
Porth Padrig Beach (White Lady Bay)
Steeped in history and legend, this bay is well worth a visit with your canine companion. Standing proudly mid-beach is the white quartzite sea stack which takes its name from Ladi Wen of Celtic mythology. The beach itself is named St Patrick, who it is said sheltered in a nearby cave after being shipwrecked. Head up onto the coast path for memorable walkies. Anglesey is an intriguing prospect for adventurous hounds planning a coastal break. Let them lead the way through our guide to dog-friendly Anglesey beaches and find somewhere pawesome to stay below.
Dog-friendly beaches in Cardigan Bay
Cei Bach Beach (Little Quay)
Famed for its sensational sunsets, this sheltered beach is a wildlife lover’s dream. Think majestic red kites soaring overhead and pods of dolphins up to their charming antics out to sea. Four-legged pals can roam year-round; take in the views across the bay while Rover revels in that salty sea air. At low tide, you can walk to New Quay Harbour and there’s also a trail dedicated to the poet Dylan Thomas.
Llangrannog Beach
Llangrannog is sheltered by imposing, craggy cliffs and is popular with surfers and families. Seasonal dog restrictions apply to a section of the beach, but that shouldn’t deter you from visiting with the pooch in tow. Low tide allows those on two and four legs the opportunity to walk to the sandy cove of Cilborth, past the unique rock, Carreg Bica, which legend claims was once a giant’s tooth. A trip to one or more of Cardigan Bay’s beaches is sure to set tails wagging. Find out more by reading our Cardigan Bay dog-friendly beach guide or take a look at our dog-friendly places to stay in Cardigan Bay below.
Map of dog-friendly beaches in Wales
Stay in Wales
The Welsh coastline is just one of the many reasons to visit this vibrant, characterful and captivating country. And what better way to explore than with your top dog by your side? Pick a place you can both call home for the duration of your stay by browsing our collection of dog-friendly holiday cottages in Wales.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.