There’s something undeniably special about sharing the seaside with your dog. Whether it’s the feel of sand beneath your toes (and paws), the thrill of a zoomie along the shoreline, or a post-walk snooze in a sunny pub garden, the South Hams is full of tail-wagging treasures. If you’re searching for the best dog friendly beaches South Devon has to offer, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up five of our favourites – beaches where dogs are not only allowed but positively welcomed.
Slapton Sands
Year-round dog-friendly
Facilities: Parking, toilets, café nearby
Just a stone’s throw from Fingals, Slapton Sands offers mile upon mile of shingle beach, backed by the unique freshwater lagoon of Slapton Ley. It’s a dreamy spot for early morning walks when the mist lingers over the water and the only sounds are the soft crunch of your boots and the occasional seagull cry.
Dogs can run free here all year round, and there’s plenty of space for a game of fetch or a paddle in the shallows. The beach is long and linear, so ideal for long strolls without doubling back – and you might even spot a seal or a pod of dolphins off the coast if you’re lucky.
Slapton is a year-round winner, and definitely one of the best dog friendly beaches South Devon has to offer — especially if you love pairing sandy paws with fascinating history and wide-open space.
Fingals Tip: Pack a flask and settle in near Hole Rock, one of our favourite little nooks, where you and your dog can sit side by side and watch the waves roll in.
Lannacombe Beach
Year-round dog-friendly
Facilities: Limited parking, no toilets
Tucked away at the end of narrow lanes and surrounded by rolling farmland, Lannacombe is the sort of beach that feels like a secret. Small, sandy, and beautifully quiet, this cove is ideal for a more peaceful outing with your pup – especially during the week when the crowds thin.
The gentle slope and soft sand make it perfect for paddling, and children love it here too (especially if there’s a sandcastle or two to be built). Your dog will love scampering up and down the beach or exploring the rock pools at low tide.
Fingals Tip: There’s only space for a dozen cars, so go early or go late – either way, you’ll feel like you’ve found your own private paradise.
Torcross Beach
Year-round dog-friendly
Facilities: Parking, loos, cafés, shops
A favourite with our own dogs (and grandchildren!), Torcross offers a beautiful sweep of shingle with easy access, a laid-back atmosphere, and the chance of spotting dolphins dancing in the surf. Just a short drive from Fingals, this beach sits at the southern end of Slapton Sands and is conveniently close to amenities.
There’s an ice cream van in summer, and benches to rest weary legs while you watch the sunset – paws sandy, hearts full.
Fingals Tip: After a walk, treat yourself to fish and chips or a cup of something cool from one of the seafront cafés – your pup will thank you if you happen to share.
South Milton Sands (Thurlestone)
Seasonal dog restrictions (left side only from May to Sept)
Facilities: National Trust car park, toilets, beach café
With golden sands, shallow waters, and views that stretch all the way to Bolt Tail, South Milton Sands is a classic South Devon beauty. From May to September, dogs are only allowed on the west side of the beach – but there’s still plenty of space to play and paddle.
The walk from here to Thurlestone is a scenic gem, and there’s a boardwalk that makes access easier for those with little ones or older dogs in tow. The café is a great place to refuel – think crab sandwiches, locally baked treats, and excellent coffee.
Fingals Tip: Stay for golden hour – the soft evening light here is something truly special, and your dog might just get mistaken for a model in that glowing sunshine.
East Portlemouth
Year-round dog-friendly
Facilities: Parking, café, toilets
If you fancy combining your beach day with a bit of a nautical adventure, take a short drive to East Portlemouth and hop on the dog-friendly ferry across the water to Salcombe. The beaches here – Fishermans Cove, Smalls Cove, and Mill Bay – are sheltered, scenic, and perfect for swimming (for humans and dogs alike).
Fringed with pines and overlooked by elegant villas, the area feels a little like the French Riviera – if the Riviera had Devon cream teas and pasties instead of baguettes.
Fingals Tip: Bring a picnic and walk along the coast path to Gara Rock – you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views in the South Hams.
Planning Your Paw-fect Beach Day
Before you go, here are a few quick reminders to make your beach day a breeze:
- Always bring water for your dog (and a bowl!).
- Watch out for hot sand and pebbles – early mornings or late afternoons are best on really warm days.
- Keep an eye on tides, especially at coves like Lannacombe.
- Respect wildlife, fellow beachgoers, and any local signage.
- And always, always pack the dog towels – we speak from soggy experience.
With so many dog friendly beaches South Devon has to offer, your four-legged friend is guaranteed as warm a welcome as you are.
Back at Fingals…
After a day of sun, sea, and sandy paws, head back to your accommodation at Fingals for a well-earned rest. Rinse off in our outdoor taps, dry off in the sun-dappled courtyard, and maybe share a slice of something sweet from a local bakery while your dog snoozes contentedly at your feet.
Here, every stay is a shared adventure – and we wouldn’t have it any other way.