Guide to the Best 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 dog-friendly beaches to choose from, it’s fair to say you’ll be spoilt for choice. Fortunately, by having 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 beach 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 West Wales 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 dog-friendly 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, soft sand, 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. This beach in West Wales is one of the most unique beaches you can go for a Wales Coast Path walk.
Cardigan Bay
Sitting on the south west coast of Wales, Cardigan Bay is a terrific dog-friendly beach location that offers many coastal paths and hidden coves. This picturesque bay is quite accommodating of dogs, including many dog-friendly cottages, pubs and camping sites.
One of the highlights of Cardigan Bay is Llangrannog Beach – which comes with soft sand and salty breezes. Keep in mind that you can only take your dog on this beach from September to May – so it’s a good choice for an autumn, winter or early spring walk!
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 dog-friendly beaches in 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 North Wales town and is a beautiful sight to take in.
Towyn Beach, Conwy
Located beside the nearby town 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.
Dog-friendly beaches in 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 choice of stunning 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. There is a car park within walking distance.
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. Ogmore Central Beach is an adventurer’s dream and its dog-friendly nature gives your furry friend a terrific walk too!
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. In short, Kenfig Sands is the perfect place for an unforgettable dog-friendly holiday.
Three Cliffs Bay, Gower
Three Cliffs Bay is one of the most picturesque and photographed bays in Gower.
This sandy 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 breathtaking 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.
There are so many dog-friendly beaches in Wales!
As you can see from our list above, you’ll have a lot of choices when it comes to dog-friendly beaches. Wales offers a wealth of stunning coastal walks for you to enjoy with your furry companion. Always make sure to double-check if there are display car parks and that the beach in question allows dogs at certain times of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find out if beaches in North Wales are dog friendly?
If you want to find out if the beach you’re considering is a dog-friendly beach, you can take a look online or ask around the local area.
Most beaches will have signposts that will explain this to you. Keep in mind that some beaches in Wales may only allow dogs at certain times of year – usually in the winter. Some allow them year round!
Do all of these beaches have a National Trust car park?
Many of these beaches will have car parks nearby, with some of them featuring a National Trust car park. These car parks allow you free access provided you are a member!
Many of these function as a display car park, so make sure you have your National Trust membership handy.
How safe is a Wales Coast Path with a dog?
Wales’ coastal paths are generally safe for dogs, however there may be many sections where you will need to keep them on their lead – a coastal path can be dangerous, especially in bad weather.
This is for their safety, as well as a way of respecting the local nature and those who live close by.
Nick, your trusted guide to Wales travel and exploration, shares a deep passion for this enchanting land. With years of exploration, Nick offers expert insights into the best of Wales. Join him on a journey through its captivating history, culture, and hidden gems, as he inspires you to create unforgettable Wales travel experiences.
