Dog Friendly Beaches in North Devon

Beaches to Visit This Summer with Your Four-Legged Friend

North Devon is a paradise for dogs and their owners, with miles of sandy coastline, scenic walks, and welcoming local businesses. But when summer arrives, some beaches introduce seasonal restrictions that can catch visitors off guard. If you’re planning a dog-friendly holiday in North Devon, it’s important to know where your pup can roam freely. Here’s our guide to the top dog-friendly beaches in North Devon – including where dogs are allowed year-round.

Is Saunton Beach Dog Friendly?

Yes – Saunton Beach is dog friendly all year round, with no seasonal restrictions. This vast expanse of golden sand stretches for over three miles and offers plenty of space for dogs to run, play, and paddle. There’s even a stream at the southern end that’s perfect for cooling off.

Dogs are very much welcome all year round, making Saunton one of the most inclusive and relaxed beaches for dogs and their humans in North Devon. With over 3 miles of sand, backed by the sand dunes of Braunton Burrows, there is plenty of room for everyone to enjoy Saunton. Dog owners are, of course, expected to be respectful of other beach users – especially during busy periods or when families are enjoying picnics.

And it’s not just the beach itself that’s dog friendly – the businesses down here are wonderfully dog-friendly too! The Beachside Grill, where dogs can join you while you enjoy sea views and locally sourced food, The Break Café, which welcomes dogs inside and out, and not forgetting Saunton Beach Shop which is also dog friendly, so you can browse for beach essentials without leaving your pup outside.

And, don’t forget to stop by our very own Dog Shop in reception – packed with unique treats, toys, and essentials for your four-legged family members.

This makes Saunton one of the most welcoming beaches for dogs in the region – and a top choice for a pet-friendly summer escape.

Looking for self-catering dog-friendly accommodation just steps from the sand?

Saunton Beach Villas offer the perfect base for dog lovers, with spacious villas, enclosed gardens, and easy access to the beach. What’s more, we do not have a dog limit, nor do we restrict on breed or size. Check out our award-winning dog-friendly Beach Villas and find out what all the fuss is about.

Is Croyde Beach Dog Friendly?

Croyde Beach has seasonal dog restrictions. Dogs are not allowed on the main beach between 1st May and 30th September, although they are welcome outside of these dates.

However, dogs can be walked on the sand dunes which sit above the beach. Why not check out the “Croyde and Saunton Down” section of the South West Coast Path walk where you can take in breathtaking views with your pup.

Is Woolacombe Beach Dog Friendly?

Woolacombe has designated dog-free zones during the summer months.

Zone A: No dogs allowed from Good Friday (or 1st April) until 30th September.

Zone B: Dogs must be on leads from 1st May and 30th September.

Zone C: Dogs are welcome with no restrictions.

These zones are well marked and offer a good compromise during the busy summer season. Woolacombe’s vast shoreline means there’s still plenty of space to enjoy with your dog.

To view a map of the dog zoning system on Woolacombe Beach, please click here.

Other Dog Friendly Beaches in North Devon

• Braunton Burrows – Braunton Burrows, which backs Saunton Beach, is the largest dune system in the UK. Dramatic scenery with steep-sided high sand dunes, Braunton Burrows is the heart of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and is a UNESCO designated Biosphere reserve. Braunton Burrows is dog-friendly all year round. Please keep your dog on a lead around livestock and be aware of the zoning system. See the Braunton Burrows Dog Walking Guide.
• Putsborough Sands – Dogs are allowed everywhere on Putsborough, except for the far left of the beach from Easter until November 1.
• Barricane Beach – Dogs must be kept on leads from March – September (when the Beach Cafe is in place – don’t forget to check out their famous curries!).
• Westward Ho! – The main beach (accessed via the slipway at Westward Ho!) has a dog ban from May to September. However, dogs are welcome year-round at the Northam Burrows end of Westward Ho! (access via Northam Burrows Toll Road).
• Instow Beach – Dog-friendly all year with a voluntary code of conduct (see signage).

Plan Your Dog Friendly Holiday in North Devon

Whether you’re chasing waves, walking the dunes, or relaxing by the sea, North Devon has plenty to offer for you and your canine companion. With Saunton Beach and the Villas being dog friendly all year round, it’s the perfect choice for stress-free beach days – even in the height of summer.

For a holiday that your dog will love as much as you do, discover Saunton Beach Villas, where you’ll find comfortable, dog-friendly, award-winning accommodation in North Devon, just moments from the sand.