Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches in Wales: North, South & West
If you are planning a trip with your pup, you will almost certainly want to visit at least one of these fantastic welsh beaches for dogs. Come rain or shine there are plenty of options – from sandy stretches perfect for playing to quaint village-side beaches with plenty of amenities.
But with over 400 beaches to choose from, it’s fair to say you’ll be spoilt for choice. Fortunately, by taking a look at our guide, you’ll ensure you’re visiting the best beaches in Wales for dogs.
Dog-friendly beaches in West Wales
West Wales is home to some exquisite sights, so it’s no surprise that many people want to bring their furry companions along with them. Here are our top dog-friendly beaches in West Wales:
Monkstone Beach, Pembrokeshire
If you are looking for a remote beach that will allow your four-legged friend to run and swim to their heart’s content, you won’t find a much better dog-friendly beach in Wales than Monkstone Beach.
Situated a couple of miles north of Tenby, Monkstone is a wonderfully sheltered location packed with stunning coastal cliffs and landscapes bordered by gorgeous golden sands. Access down to the beach is steep, but there is a well-maintained path with steps to ensure safe access.
Scott’s Bay, Carmarthenshire
Around half a mile from the south of Llanstephan sits the secluded beach of Scott’s Bay. This perfectly hidden cove is the ideal location to take a slow-paced walk, enjoy a picnic or have a lazy day relaxing with man’s best friend.
The beach is mostly sand, backed by low cliffs of red sandstone and siltstone, so there are plenty of areas in which to sunbathe or take in the views of Gower and Laugharne. You’ll likely get the whole area to yourself, so it’s well worth making the trip to this idyllic location.
Aberaeron North Beach, Ceredigion
Unlike many popular destinations, Aberaeron North Beach does not have sand and instead is rock and shingle beach. But, what it lacks in golden sands, it more than makes up for in stunning views and plenty of space to roam free.
The beautiful town of Aberaeron is also just off the beach and provides plenty of shops, cafes and friendly locals. Creative minds can stock up at any of the arts and crafts shops and foodies can indulge in seaside classics such as glorious honey ice cream and fresh fish and chips.
The town is perhaps most famous for its architecture and brightly painted houses, with one home in four listed as being of particular architectural or historical interest.
Dog-friendly beaches in North Wales
From Snowdonia National Park to Conwy Castle, there’s plenty to see and explore in North Wales. Yet, there’s nothing better than taking time out to relax and enjoy the company of man’s best friend. Here are our top dog-friendly beaches in North Wales:
Deganwy North Beach, Conwy
Deganwy North Beach is one of the few beaches in North Wales that faces towards the south-west, making it an ideal sun trap to take advantage of some good weather.
The sheltered bay is long and sandy with ample places to sit, relax and watch the world go by. The beach is mostly shingle at the top but becomes sandier closer to the water’s edge. The ruins of Deganwy Castle, dating back to the 6th century, sit on a hill overlooking the nearby town and is a beautiful sight to take in.
Towyn Beach, Conwy
Located just outside of the seaside village of Abergele, Towyn Beach is a delightful stretch of sand that boasts impressive views across Colwyn Bay towards the Isle of Man.
It is a haven for dogs with plenty of space to play. The long promenade adjacent to the beach offers a magnificent chance to take in the scenic landscape and enjoy a range of seaside attractions such as funfairs, shops and amusement arcades.
South Wales
The Southern coastline of Wales boasts scenic views and endless sun: the perfect spot to enjoy sandy beaches with your dog. Struggling to pick the best spot? Here’s our top dog-friendly beaches in South Wales:
Ogmore Central Beach, Glamorgan
Ogmore Central Beach is a popular sand and shingle beach situated along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast where beautiful low cliffs of carboniferous limestone backdrop the hideaway.
The expansive area is excellent for exploring, boasting plenty of clifftops, craggy rocks and rock pools. As well as dog walkers, the beach attracts plenty of surfers, fishers and swimmers, so expect a high level of activity during the summer seasons.
History buffs will be keen to know that it looks out towards Tusker Rock, which is visible at low tide. It was named after a Danish Viking who colonised the local area.
Kenfig Sands, Port Talbot
Kenfig Sands is a long, peaceful stretch of sand that is a perfect place for letting your dog stretch their legs. The beach has a shingle bank for most of its length and backs onto the Kenfig nature reserve.
The site includes expansive sand dunes and the Kenfig Pool, which is Glamorgan’s largest lake and populated by abundant local wildlife. Known to locals as Sker Beach, the location is popular among experienced surfers who only add to the pleasant view of the landscape.
Three Cliffs Bay, Gower
Three Cliffs Bay is one of the most picturesque and photographed bays in Gower.
The bay is split into four parts and dogs are allowed on around 50% of the beach between Mumbles and the River Tawe. Despite being cited as one of Britain’s best beaches, Three Cliff Bay is rarely busy, so there will be little worry about letting a dog off the lead to let them explore the breath-taking surroundings.
The signature three limestone cliffs backdrop the area perfectly, while the photogenic Gower Coast Path is a great spot to stop for a picnic and to relax with your furry pal.
