Our dogs are a big part of the family, so it’s no wonder we want to make sure they have a great holiday too! North Devon is perfect for a dog friendly holiday with miles of sandy beaches, coastal footpaths and the refreshing Atlantic ocean for a doggy paddle.
We’re extremely lucky to have many dog-friendly beaches in North Devon with some having access all year round, other with zones during peak seasons so we’ve broken it down here to pick the perfect to get your pooches tail wagging…
Instow Beach
Dog friendly all year round in designate areaFrom 1st May – 30th September, dogs are not allowed between the Quay and Lane End Road. Don't forget to visit The Boathouse, The Instow arms or John's of Instow (all dog friendly) whilst visiting to find some nice lunch.
Westward Ho
Dog friendly all year round in designated areaAll year round, dogs are welcome on the northern end of the beach and are also allowed on the entire beach between 30th September and 1st May.
Don't forget your hockings ice cream whilst visiting (locally made clotted cream ice cream)
Saunton Sands
Dog friendly all year round with some restrictions. Beach huts for rent too.Dogs are to be kept on leads past the initial beach hut area. With 3-miles of golden sands, your four-legged friends will have space for a good run. Saunton Sands hotel runs a restaurant next to the beach that is dog friendly outside and offers great burgers and salads called Beachside Grill.
Woolacombe Bay
Dog friendly all year round with some restrictions during the peak season with different zones along the beach. Head straight off the beach to The Red Barn, this dog friendly bar-grill offers all-day comfort food and real ales, plus live music on Fridays!Croyde
Dog Friendly from 1st October – 30th April, and other times dogs are welcome to be walked on the dunes which sit above the beach. As well as the golden beach, Baggy Point is a great walk with your four pawed friends along the coast looking back to Croyde, or out towards Woolacombe. After your walk, stop by The Thatch Croyde, a popular pub for dog owners where dogs are welcomed.Lynmouth Beach
Dog friendly all year round. Dog friendly all year round with shingle beach and rock pools to explore. The cliff railway is dog friendly and will take you to Lynton to explore the shops, pubs and restaurants.Hele Bay
Dog friendly all year round. After run on the beach, visit Hele Corn Mill, a 16th century working watermill and tea rooms, just off the beach.Putsborough Sands
Dog friendly all year round with some restrictions. To the left of the beach as you walk down the stairs, this area is zoned off for dogs. An award winning beach, stretching 3-miles all the way to Woolacombe, so plenty of beach to stretch those legs. An idyllic spot with just a beach shop and café plus award winning toilets (yes you read that right!).
If that’s not enough, treat your dog to a dog ice cream whilst you explore…so you don’t have to share yours!
After all that exploring we’re sure you’ll hear some snoring coming from your furry friends, leaving you to put up your feet and relax…you are on holiday too after all!