Sandy Claws – The Best Dog-friendly Beaches In Dorset

Let’s face it, you can hardly call it a family break unless you get to bring along your precious pooch too, which is why so many people nowadays opt for dog-friendly holidays. Dorset is the perfect destination for this kind of getaway, with so many opportunities for bracing strolls amid beautiful natural scenery. The county’s coast is particularly striking – here’s a look at some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Dorset.

Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove

The natural limestone arch known as Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most striking landmarks, not to be missed by any visitor to the area, and luckily the beach is open to canine sightseers as well – though they may well be more interested in digging up its shingly surface or leaping into the sea than admiring the unique geology on display.

With its amazing natural scenery, this secluded cove is a fantastic place for a stroll, and if you head up and over the nearby cliffs you can make your way along to the beautiful Lulworth Cove, a horseshoe-shaped white pebble bay where dogs are also welcome.

Bowleaze Cove

When it comes to dog-friendly holidays, Dorset has few beaches better than Bowleaze Cove. It’s a perfect place for a family day by the sea, just a few miles from Weymouth and with ample amenities including shops, an amusement arcade and a funfair.

The safe, shallow water makes an ideal paddling spot for kids and dogs alike, and there’s also a large grassy area overlooking the waterfront where they can play. At the top of Bowleaze Cove you’ll find the pet-friendly Lookout Café, offering fantastic sea views, thirst-quenching drinks and delicious breakfast and lunch options.

Monmouth Beach

The Jurassic Coast is – unsurprisingly given the name – famed for its fossils, which range from humble ammonites to the remnants of giant marine reptiles and dinosaurs. If you’re looking for a reason to join the dog in digging along the shoreline, it’s definitely worth trying your hand at fossil hunting.

Monmouth Beach is right next to Lyme Regis, undoubtedly the UK’s fossil capital, and is extremely popular with people taking dog-friendly holidays. Dorset visitors keen on finding their own fossils while exercising their pet will find this sand-and-pebble seafront destination a true treasure trove of prehistoric keepsakes.

Eype Beach

There’s no question that taking relaxing walks through gorgeous scenery is one of the best parts of dog-friendly holidays. Dorset boasts some incredible sights, and the views in and around Eype really are worth a look.

The village of Eype itself is full of pretty thatched cottages from the 18th and 19th centuries, and is considered to be one of the most attractive villages in West Dorset. That’s before you even get to the beautiful beach, a hidden gem which is a favourite among locals. This sloping stretch of shingles offers breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast, making it a perfect location to explore with the family pet.

With its miles of beautiful coastline and range of amazing beaches, it’s clear why, when it comes to dog-friendly holidays, Dorset can’t be beaten.

Author Plate

Michael Paul is the Managing Director of Michael Paul Holidays, a holiday property agency offering a handpicked range of accommodation in wonderful UK locations. Whether you are looking for family getaways, romantic escapes or dog friendly holidays, Dorset is often at the top of Michael’s recommendation list. He and his team will find you that perfect property for an unforgettable trip.