The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the UK
Looking for dog-friendly beaches near you? Whether you’re on a UK holiday or looking for a new spot to...
North Devon beaches are renowned for their golden sands, secluded coves and rugged cliffs. With such magnificent landscapes to enjoy, it’s easy to see why holidaymakers flock in their thousands for a trip to Devon!
North Devon beaches are a paradise for surfers, explorers and families with pets, with the seemingly endless coastline offering something for everyone. From the traditional resorts of Westward Ho! to the more secluded haven of Lee Bay, our guide to the best beaches in North Devon is sure to impress!
Continue reading to discover the best North Devon beaches…
The Blue Flag award-winning sands of Westward Ho! Beach rest moments away from the charming seaside town from which it takes its name.
Backed by a defensive pebble ridge, ideal for rock pooling, and decorated in pristine sand, Westward Ho! Beach is the perfect choice for those looking for a traditional, family-friendly beach holiday.
There’s a handful of waterfront amenities, including independent seaside shops, toilets and a number of food concessions, sure to add to your beach-going experience!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between October-end of April
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: EX39 1HN
Croyde Bay Beach can be found nestled within a small bay, just a short distance from the picture-perfect village of Croyde.
This three-mile stretch of golden sand is popular with holidaymakers, with lifeguards operating during the summer months.
Thanks to its optimum surfing conditions, Croyde Bay Beach also attracts avid watersport enthusiasts! Renowned for its A-frame barrel waves at low tide, Croyde Bay Beach has been recognised as one of the best surfing beaches in the UK!
Whether you’re looking for a spot of adventure, or an excuse to unwind, look no further than this North Devon beach.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between May-end of September
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: EX33 1QE
Known locally as “the jewel in the crown of Lee”, Lee Bay Beach can be found tucked away amongst a secluded cove, a short two miles from bustling Ilfracombe.
Explorers may prefer to visit at low tide, where the beach is adorned with craggy rocks, perfect for rock pooling or scrambling. The sandy alternative unveiled at high tide makes a peaceful change from the busier beaches nearby.
If you’re into watersports, be sure to pay Active Escape a visit, where there are plenty of opportunities to make a splash in the bay!
Type of beach: Sandy when the tide is out; rocky otherwise
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply between the beginning of November-Easter
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: EX34 8LW
Next on our guide to North Devon beaches is the beautiful Tunnels Beach! This spot makes for a truly unique experience, accessed via a series of hand-carved tunnels, boasting a fascinating history dating back to the 1820s.
Sheltered by its surrounding cliffs, this North Devon beach hides a Victorian bathing pool, visible for three hours after low tide. It is sure to offer something a little different to your usual beach-going adventure!
A secluded area of the beach is cordoned off for exclusive use of the Tunnels Beach Hotel, offering a bespoke venue for couples wishing to wed on the North Devon coast!
Famed as Ilfracombe’s most popular tourist attraction, keep in mind that there is an entrance fee to experience these delights for yourself!
Type of beach: Sand & Shingle
Dog-friendly: Dog restrictions apply on the beach all year round, however, are allowed through the tunnels of a lead
Car Park: No; public car parks available nearby in Ilfracombe
Postcode: EX34 8AX
Set off the beaten track and accessed via a series of over 200 steep cliff steps, between the Devonshire villages of Watermouth and Combe Martin, rests the concealed cove of Broadsands Beach.
Sheltered by high wooded cliffs, this secluded North Devon beach makes an ideal choice for an afternoon of open-water swimming. Not for the faint of heart, if you’re eager enough to find this hidden cove, you’ll be rewarded with a series of tunnels and caves.
To add to the excitement, four-legged companions are welcome to explore the mysteries of Broadsands Beach, all year round!
Type of beach: Shingle
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Car Park: No
Postcode: TQ4 6HH
Next on our best beaches in North Devon guide is an impressive stretch of sand sitting within the striking Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty! Saunton Sands offers a wonderful location for an escape to the coast that the whole family can enjoy.
Famed as the filming location behind Hollywood DC’s Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom and backed by the iconic Braunton Burrows dunes, there’s a wealth of sights to see at Saunton Sands.
With glistening waters, pristine sands adorned with vibrant huts and furry friends welcome all year round, there’s truly no better place to indulge in a day at the beach. It’s little wonder that Saunton Sands is one of the best beaches in Devon!
Due to its shelter from the winds, longboarding and surfing are popular activities here, and the on-site instructors are on hand to help assist those of all ages and abilities!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: EX33 1LQ
Two-time winner of TripAdvisor’s “UK’s Best Beach” award, the pristine sands of Woolacombe Beach truly lives up to its accolade.
Renowned for its cleanliness, excellent water quality and world-class surfing conditions, this sandy North Devon beach provides a haven for both watersport enthusiasts and families alike.
Pack your bucket and spade and spend a peaceful afternoon building sandcastles or make a splash in the Atlantic! Alternatively, embark on an adventure in search of marine life hiding amongst the rock pools!
Explore further and take to the South West Coast Path, which sits atop the rugged cliffs at the rear of Woolacombe Beach, framing expansive views from its elevated position.
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, with some restrictions in place during peak season with marked dog-friendly zones
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: EX34 7DJ
Moments from National Trust’s Baggy Point, amongst the North Devon AONB, rests the striking sands of Putsborough Beach.
With pristine golden sand and blue waters, it’s clear to see why this North Devon beach is a favourite with surfers, families and furry friends alike. Uncover treasures with a spot of rock-pooling, or simply bask in the sun and sand as you paddle the shores.
The beach also benefits from a handful of amenities, from surf-hire to a well-stocked beach shop and a waterfront café, so be sure to make a day of it!
Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, with restrictions in place on the far left side between the 1st April – 31st October
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: EX33 1LB
Ready to embark on an adventure to one of these North Devon Beaches? Secure your stay with a cottage in North Devon. And whilst you’re at it, plan your fun-filled holiday itinerary with a browse through our Devon Travel Guide. If you want to uncover of Devon’s coast, why not read our guide to South Devon Beaches?
Hello, I'm Lizi, and I joined the team in May 2021. My favourite staycation destinations include Cornwall, Northumberland, and as ...
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