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...
by Steph Boal / Pet Friendly
Dog-friendly beaches in Wales offer you and your canine companion the opportunity to explore the UK’s best golden sands and paddle in crystal-clear waters.
With over 830 miles of coastline, it’s not surprising that Wales has a wealth of stunning dog-friendly beaches to enjoy. Choose from pebble or sand beaches, remote caverns, and popular tourist destinations; there is something for everyone in Wales!
We’ve hand-picked a fabulous selection of dog-friendly beaches in Wales, so you can look forward to exploring the coastline with your canine companion.
Read on to discover 18 of the best dog-friendly beaches in Wales…
Dog-friendly beaches North Wales
Dog-friendly beaches Mid Wales
Dog-friendly beaches South Wales
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Wales Map
Are Tenby beaches dog-friendly?
Both Tenby North beach and Castle beach have a dog ban from the 1st May until the 30th of September. Tenby South Beach is the best spot to walk your dog on the sand. There are some restrictions to the left of the South beach car park but the rest of the beach is free for your dog to roam and play.
Is Barafundle beach dog-friendly?
Yes, Barafundle beach is dog-friendly all year round.
Does Barry Island beach allow dogs?
Jacksons Bay is a dog-friendly beach in Barry Island, however be aware that Whitmore Bay has a dog ban between the 1st May until the 30th of September each year.
Are Anglesey beaches dog-friendly?
There are seven beaches in Anglesey where dog restrictions apply:
These restrictions are in place between the 1st May until the 30th of September each year. See Anglesey Council for more details and maps.
Can dogs go on Pembrokeshire beaches?
During the summer months, there are a number of beaches that have a full or partial ban on dogs being allowed.
Full ban:
Tenby North, which includes harbour beach and Whitesands
Partial ban:
Amroth, Broad Haven, Coppet Hall, Dale, Lydstep, Newgale, Poppit, Saundersfoot, Tenby Castle and Tenby South
Both restrictions are in place from the 1st May until the end of September.
Barmouth Beach lies on the fringes of the famous Snowdonia National Park (Eryri) on North Wales’ west coast, and is one of the most popular beaches in North Wales.
This dog-friendly beach is large enough to not feel crowded and is a haven for those wanting to sunbathe, surf and fish. Its seafront is home to plenty of traditional seaside activities including, donkey rides and arcades. Public transport links, cafes, restaurants and pubs also surround it.
Snowdonia National Park, which borders the beach, is overflowing with places for biking, hiking, and walking. Visitors are rewarded with breath-taking panoramas of the Welsh coast and countryside.
This dog-friendly beach in Wales offers the perfect spot for a full day by the seaside!
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Yes
Dog-friendly: Dogs are banned between the leisure centre and river between April 1st and September 30th, but can roam freely elsewhere.
Postcode: LL42 1NE
Nestled on the outskirts of the historic town of Conwy, Conwy Morfa is a spectacular North Wales dog-friendly beach. During low tide, large stretches of sand make it perfect for families with kids wanting to build sandcastles and for dogs stretching their legs.
Conwy Morfa offers fantastic opportunities for birdwatching, fishing and golf, thanks to the nearby Conwy Caernarvonshire Golf Club. While here, admire beautiful views across to the Great Orme in Llandudno.
Alternatively, round off the day at this dog-friendly beach in Wales by exploring the wealth of things to do in Conwy, with history woven through every street.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Free small car park nearby
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: LL32 8GA
Overlooking Cardigan Bay, with an impressive 13th-century castle in the background, is our third dog-friendly North Wales beach, Criccieth Beach.
This headland is known as the town’s East Beach and provides shelter from the wind. This, coupled with the shallow water, makes it an ideal place for families looking to breathe in the sea air, with their beloved canine companion.
Amenities such as pubs, cafés and restaurants line the coast in the town of Criccieth, along with attractions like Castell Criccieth and Criccieth Multi Golf, meaning you can look forward to a full day of fun here!
Type of beach: Shingle, rock and sandy
Parking: Parking a short walk from the beach
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed all year round beyond the car park. Restrictions are in place on the main stretch between April 1st and September 30th
Postcode: LL52 0HP
Resting on the south coast of the idyllic Llŷn Peninsula is Llanbedrog Beach. This breath-taking beach is famous for its iconic colourful beach huts, a stunning stretch of sand and clear blue sea.
Families can delight in a fun-filled day, thanks to the adventure packs provided by the National Trust. Let the kids lose themselves in a range of activities such as leaf trails and wildlife games.
The surrounding area also hosts beautiful walks through dense woodland or along the headland. Be sure to make your way up to the tin man sculpture on Mynydd Tir y Cwmwd for picturesque and panoramic views across Cardigan Bay, St Tudwal’s Islands and Abersoch.
With plenty to do and nearby facilities, it’s clear why Llanbedrog is one of the best beaches for dogs in Wales.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Parking is free to National Trust members. £5 a day between April and October or £2.50 between October and March. £1.50 after 4pm all year round.
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round but must be kept on a lead until you pass the beach huts between Aril and October.
Postcode: LL53 7TR
If you’re looking for classic seaside, Rhyl Beach is for you. Resting on the coast of North Wales, with a wealth of attractions lining its seafront, it is truly a haven for the whole family.
The dog-friendly beach boasts a large stretch of sand, which grows when the tide goes out. Sometimes there is a half-mile walk to the sea, offering plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore.
Be sure to also make the most of nearby attractions like SeaQuarium, Zip World and SC2 water park for endless fun!
Find amenities including restaurants, pubs and cafés nearby so you can spend a whole day at the beach. Of course, no trip to the beach would be complete without fish and chips!
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Lots of parking available nearby
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed anywhere on the beach between 1st October and 30th April. Between 1st May and 30th September dogs are only allowed between Old Golf Road and Ffrith Festival Gardens.
Postcode: LL18 3YP
At the mouth of the River Dee near the Welsh/English border is Talacre Beach. Housing miles of golden sands, this beach welcomes dogs all year round.
The breath-taking Grade II listed Point of Ayr Lighthouse, dating back to 1776, provides a spectacular backdrop for dog walks and unique photo opportunities. It is considered one of the spookiest locations in the UK, perfect for those interested in the supernatural.
A variety of wildlife can be found in the dunes that back up the beach, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. At the entrance are stores, restrooms, and The Point Bar and Restaurant—everything you need for a full day by the sea!
The Wales Coast Path runs near the beach, providing walking opportunities through stunning seaside villages. It then spans an impressive 870 miles but don’t worry you don’t have to walk it all for impressive views!
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Parking is available a short walk from the beach
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed all year round
Postcode: CH8 9RS
Our first dog-friendly beach in Mid Wales is the rocky Aberaeron North Beach, which lies in the coastal town of Aberaeron.
Admire the spectacular views across Cardigan Bay and the Irish Sea while your dog roams freely at your side. The beach is a haven for walkers, with the famous Wales Coast Path and The Coastal Way passing thorugh it. Fishermen and birdwatchers also frequent this spot.
You can find a host of amenities in the nearby town, which is home to charming Georgian buildings and a variety of restaurants serving local produce.
Cardigan Bay is a great place to see unusual animals, being one of two locations along the British coast where you can observe dolphins. Be sure to indulge in the famous local honey ice cream while trying to spot them!
Type of beach: Rocky
Parking: Parking is available near the harbour and close to South Beach.
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed all year round.
Postcode: SA46 0JR
Also known as Aberdovey Beach, this wonderful dog-friendly beach in Wales lies on the edge of Snowdonia National Park.
With a unique location where the Welsh mountains meet the sea and a variety of walks nearby, the beach is popular with keen ramblers. For a taste of adventure, try sailing or windsurfing as the strong current provides perfect conditions, although swimmers should take care.
The village itself benefits from a golf club, where you can test your swing in the sea air. You’ll also find excellent transport links thanks to the nearby train station and a variety of local restaurants.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Paid parking is available nearby
Dog-friendly: Dogs are not allowed in the area in front of the car park between the 1st of April and the 30th of September. The rest of the beach is dog-friendly all year round.
Postcode: LL35 0RT
The name of this beach is actually deceiving as it is made up of two wonderful sandy beaches, Dyffryn and the award-winning Dolwen, providing more space for you and your beloved pooch to explore the golden shores and the azure of Cardigan Bay.
Families frequent the beach year after year because of its protected setting and summertime lifeguard service, which create an idyllic environment for young children to splash in the water. Don’t forget to look at the creatures that live in the numerous rockpools that line the shore!
Venture inland to explore the charming village of Aberporth, get your caffeine fix from a variety of cafés or indulge in the seaside necessity, fish and chips! You can also marvel at the breath-taking views from the clifftop walk to the nearby town of Tresaith, with chances to spot dolphins swimming in the bay.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: A small car park is available above the south section of the beach. The village offers other parking too.
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed on the Dyffryn section of the beach all year round. Dolwen Beach has restrictions between May and September.
Postcode: SA43 2DD
The wonderful Traeth y De is quieter than North Beach, making it ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the tourist hub.
This fabulous Blue Flag beach welcomes dogs all year round, making it a wonderful place to try and spot the resident porpoises while your canine companion runs free.
On clear days; Cardigan Island, Bardsey Island, the Llŷn Peninsula and sometimes Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) can be seen across the water. Watersports such as bodyboarding and surfing are hugely popular here thanks to the lifeguard service, meaning families with children can also enjoy the water.
Aberystwyth Castle, the harbour and the National Library of Wales are all a short stroll away, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in local history. The coastal walk backs the beach, offering spectacular sea vistas and an opportunity to breathe in the sea air.
Type of beach: Sand and shingle beach
Parking: Lots of nearby parking
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed all year round on the section of the beach between the slipway and the harbour
Postcode: SY23 1DZ
Find the Blue Flag award-winning, dog-friendly Llangrannog Beach hidden below a series of craggy cliffs.
Families flock to the shores to take to the water in boats, kayaks or even just for a refreshing swim. There is a lifeguard service present in the summer, making the waters safe for little ones.
There is also a range of eateries and leisure facilities in the village, most notably the dry ski slope, which is hugely popular. When the tide is low, find the hidden Welsh gem of Cilborth Beach, where surfing is a common pastime.
Ramblers should take advantage of the range of walks available from the dog-friendly beach and village; head through the nearby National Trust land or join the Ceredigion Coast Path to fully appreciate the impressive views over the bay.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Pay and display car park available
Dog-friendly: Dogs are not allowed west of the stream between May and October
Postcode: SA44 6SN
Part of the Dyfi National Nature Reserve is this extraordinary, dog-friendly beach in Wales that lies at the mouth of the Afon Leri. It is a haven for those looking to become one with nature. No wonder it is continuously recognised as one of the best beaches in the UK.
Lose yourself in the array of walks woven throughout the nature reserve. Follow the dune walk through this unique, ever-changing landscape where wildflowers line the path.
Alternatively, treat your canine companion to a long walk on the Ynyslas Walk route, which traverses the dunes, farmland and shores. Be rewarded by spectacular, uninterrupted views across the estuary!
Finally, be sure to stop at the visitor centre to learn about the nature reserve, its wildlife and its history through the family-friendly exhibits. There are also refreshments and toilets so you can spend the whole day here!
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Parking is available and a small disabled car park near the visitor centre, there is a small charge in the summer. The car park is on the beach and can flood in high tides.
Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed all year round. Dogs must be kept on a lead in certain areas, information about this is on-site.
Postcode: SY24 5JZ
Often compared to the breath-taking, exotic beaches of the Caribbean, Barafundle Bay Beach is frequently recognised as one of the best beaches in South Wales.
Make sure to bring all you’ll need for a fun-filled day upon the glorious golden shores, because the car park is a half-mile walk over the cliffs from the beach, ensuring a tranquil setting.
Splash around the crystal clear waters with your loved ones and beloved dogs or simply take in the breath-taking views across the Bristol Channel.
The beach is maintained by the National Trust and forms part of the Stackpole Estate, famous for the Bosherston Lily Ponds and for being the home of wildlife including otters and wildfowl.
Cafés, toilets and parking can be found in Stackpole Quay, which can be found on foot off the coastal path.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Parking is available at Stackpole Quay and Broad Haven South which is half a mile walk over the cliffs from the beach.
Dog-friendly: Dog-friendly all year round
Postcode: SA17 5LS
Nestled in a fantastic location on the exposed Welsh coast, this wonderful dog-friendly beach has the swells of the Atlantic lapping at its shores.
Dogs are welcome all year round, making it a perfect setting for a brisk walk in the refreshing sea air for the whole family. Visitors are cautioned against swimming because of the strong currents and lack of lifeguard services.
Film lovers will be in their element as the beach has had Hollywood stars frequent its shores more than once. It appeared in Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood, as well as being an important filming location in the Harry Potter series.
Fans can even pay tribute to Dobby the House Elf, who has been immortalised on the Pembrokeshire beach with a fan-made grave of stones.
Type of beach: Sand and stone
Parking: Free parking is available nearby
Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome all year round
Postcode: SA17 5AH
Backed by stunning high cliffs on a peninsula that forms the south-westerly tip of Wales is the dog-friendly Marloes Sands.
This wonderful beach is part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and at low tides has a large, continuous stretch of sand, welcoming dogs all year round.
An idyllic setting to admire the wealth of wildlife flourishing including seals and a variety of birds, the beach is also the closest to Skomer Island, which is renowned for being the largest breeding colony of puffins in Britain.
Its location as one of the most exposed beaches to the Atlantic Ocean has drawn Hollywood to its shores. Be sure to immerse yourself in the set of films including Snow White and the Huntsman and The Lion in Winter.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: National Trust car park is available half a mile from the beach
Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome all year round, but there are no dog bins
Postcode: SA62 3BH
Aptly named after the nearby caves, this beautiful dog-friendly beach in South Wales is famed for being one the cleanest beaches in the region.
Sausage dogs frequently descend to the shores for a meet-up; in 2016 hundreds of them attempted to break a Guinness World Record with a fun-filled walk in the sea air!
Amble along the sand and pebble shores with your beloved canine companion while admiring views over the Tusker Rock. The beach is also hugely popular with watersport enthusiasts and keen ramblers.
Enjoy swimming, surfing, fishing and even diving off Tusker Rock. Alternatively, ascend to the cliff tops to join the coastal path.
Type of beach: Sand and shingle
Parking: Large parking area available
Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome all year round
Postcode: CF32 0PH
Rhossili Beach comprises three miles of golden sands and welcomes dogs all year round.
Benefitting from breath-taking views across the bay to Worms Head, the beach is a fantastic place to roam with your furry friend. There is also a National Trust car park nearby, 24-hour access to toilets and an array of eateries in the village of Rhossili.
Keep your eyes peeled during low tides as you may be able to spot the wreck of the Helvetia! The Norwegian ship was shipwrecked in 1887 and still pokes through the sand today.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: National Trust car park with EV charging points and cycle racks nearby
Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome all year round
Postcode: SA3 1PP
Recognised as one of the most photographed areas in Gower and famous for its iconic three limestone cliffs, this idyllic dog-friendly beach is a fantastic place to let your dog stretch their legs while you take in the stunning views.
Savour the spectacular views from the Wales Coast Path, which runs through the craggy coastline, as well as sandy slopes and grassy verges. Be sure to stop off for a picnic to appreciate your surroundings!
Experience the swells of the sea by delighting in a refreshing open-water swim, made safe by the lifeguard service running from May to September. Take care though because nature here can be wild!
Facilities including a car park and toilets are nearby, although the walk is tough. So be sure to bring all you need for a fun-filled day on these golden shores.
Type of beach: Sandy
Parking: Parking is available nearby, but the walk to the beach is quite rough
Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome all year round
Postcode: SA71 5AH
Looking for more dog-friendly beaches in Wales? Then have a read through our pet-friendly holiday travel guide. Alternatively, secure your well-earned getaway by booking a dog-friendly cottage in Wales.
by Steph Boal / Pet Friendly
Hi, I'm Steph and I joined the Sykes team in 2022. I grew up in the North East of England so unsurprisingly I love exploring the w...
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