Planning your Easter holiday getaway, but don’t want to leave your furry friend behind? Well, worry no more! The UK has a great collection of stunning dog-friendly beaches where you and your four-legged companion can enjoy the sea air together.

Whether your pup loves to bound ahead or simply relax by your side, these beaches offer something for every dog owner.

And while you’re preparing for your holiday, don’t forget the importance of pet insurance and travel insurance so you and your furry friend are protected against the unforeseeable.

1. Perranporth Beach, Cornwall, England

Perranporth Beach in Cornwall is a top spot to explore with your dogs this half term. It boasts vast sandy stretches and breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views. What makes it stand out is dogs are welcome all year round, which isn’t always the case with dog friendly beaches. Another great feature are the designated off-lead areas for added safety and enjoyment. With its stunning scenery and welcoming vibe, Perranporth Beach offers a memorable family getaway.

Tip: The dunes of Cornwall can be home to Adder snakes, the only venomous snake in the UK. If your dog is bitten, seek veterinary care promptly and stay calm. Minimise movement to slow venom spread, ideally carrying your dog.[1]. Make sure you have the correct Pet Insurance cover to avoid any heft bills! – Get a quote today.

2. Camber Sands, East Sussex, England

Camber Sands beach in East Sussex is the perfect half-term getaway for dog owners. This beach features pristine golden sands and beautiful dune landscapes. What sets it apart is its dog-friendly policy, allowing your pets to frolic freely. With vast open spaces and ample room to explore, it’s a haven for dogs who love a run. Camber Sands guarantees an unforgettable experience for the whole family, complete with wagging tails and sandy paws.

Note: Dogs are not permitted in zoned area between 1st May and 30^th September. You can find a map of the restricted zones here.

3. Rhossili Bay, Swansea, Wales

Rhossili Bay Beach, located on the stunning Gower Peninsula in Wales, is the perfect destination for a half-term getaway with your furry friends. This beach is famous for its vast sandy shores, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking views. What makes it special for dog owners is its welcoming atmosphere for pets all year round. Here, your dogs can enjoy off-lead fun on the huge beach, explore tidal pools, and even swim in the Atlantic Ocean. With its pristine beauty and ample space for dogs to roam, Rhossili Bay offers a rejuvenating escape for the whole family.

4. Talacre Beach, North Wales

Treat yourself and your dogs to an unforgettable adventure at Talacre Beach in North Wales this half term. With its sweeping coastline, iconic lighthouse, and dog-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a family getaway. Explore sandy shores, play in the waves, and admire the historic Talacre Lighthouse against the backdrop of the Irish Sea. Whether you’re walking along the beach or enjoying the tranquillity, Talacre Beach promises a memorable experience for you and your pets.

5. Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland

Portstewart Strand on the Causeway Coast welcomes both you and your furry friends with open arms. With designated dog-friendly areas, this picturesque beach promises a memorable experience for the whole family. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or let your pup splash in the waves against the backdrop of golden sands and rolling dunes. It’s the perfect spot for a rejuvenating escape this half term.

Note: Dogs must be kept on leads between zones 1 to 10 to avoid spooking the cattle which graze within the dunes. You may take your dogs lead off past zone 10[2]. You can find a map of the zones here.

6. Balnakeil Beach, Near Durness, Scotland

Embark on a memorable half-term adventure at Balnakeil Beach, an enchanting gem along the rugged northwestern coast of Scotland. Offering a unique blend of pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic dunes, Balnakeil Beach provides a serene escape for dogs and their owners seeking peace and quiet. With its remote location and long shoreline, this dog-friendly haven invites exploration and relaxation in equal measure.

7. Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland, England

Bamburgh Beach, with its breathtaking beauty and proximity to Bamburgh Castle, is a perfect escape for people and their pets. The shoreline provides ample room for dogs to play while offering panoramic views of the North Sea and the castle. Along the beach to the north is ‘Stags Rocks’, named because of the white stag painted on the rocks.  The lighthouse here is also the most northerly of its kind in mainland England. If you like history and dog walks this one is for you!  

8. Blackpool Beach, Blackpool, England

Blackpool beach needs no introduction! But you may not have known it’s dog friendly too! Situated along Lancashire’s iconic coastline, Blackpool beach offers a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation for visitors of all ages, including your beloved pets. With miles of sandy shores, there’s plenty of space for your dogs to frolic and there are also plenty of dog-friendly cafes and attractions along the vibrant promenade, ensuring a fantastic time for everyone.

Note: keep your dogs on leads on the Promenade and note the beach restrictions between May 1st and September 30th.[3]

Tips for walking your dog in public:

• We recommend keeping dogs on leads or under control with reliable recall when unleashed.
• Respect the local area’s that you are visiting by clearing up after your dog and disposing of any poo bags correctly.
• Respect other dog owners and visitors. Dogs can make some people and other dogs nervous. Avoid your dog approaching any strangers or other dogs without permission.
• Keep an eye on your dog at all times. Dog theft is on the rise in the UK. Read more on how to protect your dog here.
• Liability Cover – Accidents can happen, but sometimes this can cause injury or damage to someone else or their property. If your dog is found to be at fault you could find yourself with some hefty legal bills. Perfect Pets policies (excluding accident only) include liability cover meaning they will cover the costs of the claim up to the policy limit.

Whatever your plans are for the brighter months ahead. Make sure your dog is covered with Pet insurance so you can sit back and relax.

Get a Pet Insurance quote today with GoSkippy

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[1] How to keep your dog safe from adders – Dog Friendly Cornwall

[2] The Strand Portstewart Beach | County Londonderry | UK Beach Guide (thebeachguide.co.uk)

[3] Blackpool Council dog enforcement | Dogs on the beach