Dogs are much-loved members of the family – which is why family holidays just aren’t the same without them. Happily, if you’ve been considering a coastal getaway in Wales, there are loads of superb dog-friendly beaches that provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a holiday together. From beaches hugged by thriving towns to quiet expanses hidden off the beaten track, these coastal havens are ready and waiting for you to experience the exhilarating feel of sand beneath foot and paw. It’s one of the big reasons why Wales is an ideal destination for a dog-friendly staycation.
Where are the best dog-friendly beaches in Wales?
If you’re experiencing all the tail-tale signs you’re ready for a seaside retreat, we’ve put together a must-read list of some of the top dog-friendly beaches in Wales that welcome four-legged friends throughout the year.
North Wales
Porth Dinllaen Beach, Gwynedd
Situated at the northern tip of the Llŷn Peninsula is Porth Dinllaen beach. Sheltered by the Carreg Ddu headland and backed by the traffic-free Porth Dinllaen village, this picturesque beach provides an idyllic destination for dog walks throughout the year. Once you’ve all burned off energy walking and playing along the shore, you can also pay a visit to the dog-friendly Ty Coch Inn, which sits on the water’s edge and affords stunning views over the Irish Sea.
Conwy Morfa Beach, Conwy
Conwy Morfa beach (or ‘the Morfa’ if you want to sound like a local) is a wonderful dog-friendly beach. Joining up with neighbouring beaches at low tide to form Conwy Bay, it boasts plenty of space for your hound to play, run and chase balls with joyous abandon. Needless to say, it’s important to keep an eye on the tides if you plan to walk far with your pooch; however, this will no doubt become a firm favourite with all the pack.
Llanddwyn Beach (Newborough), Anglesey
Backed by forest and home to one of the largest networks of sand dunes in Britain, the mile-long Llanddwyn Beach on Anglesey is a natural favourite amongst pups of all ages. With so many scents to smell, pebbles to inspect and other doggies to greet, it makes for a hugely exciting playground. What’s more, humans will undoubtedly enjoy the views of Snowdonia National Park which set an incredible backdrop to these oceanside ramblings, too.
South Wales
Jackson’s Bay, Glamorgan
If you would like to enjoy a dog-friendly beach break alongside a wide range of family-friendly attractions, then Jackson’s Bay on Barry Island will definitely appeal. A pretty cove shouldered by greenery-clad cliffs and overlooked by a small lighthouse, it enjoys a secluded feel yet is only a stone’s throw from Barry’s many facilities and eateries on Glamorgan’s south coast. And, if you fancy heading off on a little stroll, there’s a footpath at the end of the beach that leads you along Clements Colley Walk.
Ogmore Beach, Glamorgan
Part of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, Ogmore-by-Sea beach is a year-round dog-friendly beach located at the mouth of the River Ogmore. Recognised as being one of the cleanest beaches in the area, it is popular with everyone from sea swimmers to sunbathers to four-pawed adventurers. There are also lovely cliff-top walks nearby – great for energetic dogs. Look out for Tusker Rock at low tide – named after a Danish Viking.
Rhossili Beach, the Gower Peninsula
Regularly heralded as not only one of the UK’s best dog-friendly beaches but one of the best beaches in the world, Rhossili beach is well worth a visit for its reputation alone. Enjoying three miles of powdery golden sand and featuring one of the Gower’s most famous landmarks (Worms Head), it’s not only jaw-droppingly beautiful but also has enough space so as to never feel crowded. Bundle up a picnic, grab a frisbee and enjoy.
West Wales
Little Quay Beach, Ceredigion
A mile and a half up the road from New Quay (one of the dog-friendliest destinations in Wales), you’ll find Little Quay beach (or Cei Bach), a quiet, sheltered beach made up of sand and pebbles. Offering lovely views over Cardigan Bay, this beach is particularly well-known for its wildlife-watching opportunities and magnificent sunsets. Head over with your canine chum in the evening and see if you can spot some of the resident dolphins cutting through the water, before settling in for a blazing sundowner with your pup by your side.
Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
The secluded Barafundle Bay is a half-a-mile walk from the nearest car park – rewarding all those who can walk there with some of the most exquisite seaside scenes imaginable. A real idyll, this silver-sand beach is backed by dunes and pine trees and lapped by turquoise seas – understandably gaining it a reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches on earth. With soft sands and gently sloping shores, we’re sure your dog will be in puppy paradise here at this Pembrokeshire gem which has to be one of the top dog-friendly attractions in Wales.
Pendine Sands, Carmarthenshire
One of the largest beaches in the country, Pendine Sands had to make it onto our list of the top dog-friendly beaches in Wales. At 7 miles long, it runs from Gilman Point all the way to Laugharne Sands (though parts are closed for MOD usage) and provides a huge amount of space for walkies and playtime with your dog throughout the year. Extremely flat, really long and completely sandy, it’s unparalleled for games of fetch and, of course, beach zoomies. Dog-friendly accommodation can be found at nearby Amroth and Laugharne.
Find Accommodation for a Beach Holiday With Your Dog in Wales
This is just our pick of the best dog-friendly beaches in Wales. Discover these and many more when you take a holiday with your dog in this majestic country. Search for the perfect dog-friendly retreat in Wales and enjoy the best beaches with your four-legged friends. For an extra special treat, pick one of our exclusive properties with hot tubs in Wales.
