Friendly dog on a sandy beach in West Wales

Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Pembrokeshire (and Where to Stay)

12 December 2025

Pembrokeshire is one of the UK’s most breathtaking coastal regions – a place where rugged cliffs, sweeping sandy bays, peaceful coves, and colourful seaside towns meet. It also happens to be one of the most dog-friendly coastlines in Britain, making it an exceptional choice for seaside adventures with your four-legged friend.

Whether you want miles of golden sand for long morning walks, calm coves for paddling, or lively seaside towns where dogs are welcome year-round, Pembrokeshire has something for every kind of beach-loving pup. In this guide, we explore the best dog-friendly beaches in Pembrokeshire, including popular favourites such as Tenby, Saundersfoot, Broad Haven, and Newport, alongside a few spectacular hidden gems.

To find suitable accommodation near these beaches, check out all of the Pembrokeshire dog friendly coastal cottages listed on Beach Stays, many that enjoy sea views, some with direct beach access.

Cream labrador retriever sitting on the beach

Why Pembrokeshire is Perfect for Dog-Friendly Beach Holidays

Miles of dog-friendly beaches

Many beaches allow dogs year-round, while others only have minor restrictions during peak summer months.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Stretching 186 miles, it offers cliff-top views, wildlife encounters, and walkable links between multiple beaches.

Sheltered coves & calm seas

Perfect for dogs who love paddling or exploring rock pools.

Dog-friendly pubs and cafés

Pembrokeshire’s coastal villages are famously welcoming to beach-loving dogs.

Variety of landscapes

Surf beaches, hidden coves, coastal forests and estuaries – Pembrokeshire offers it all.

Dog catching a ball on Tenby beach

1. Tenby North Beach – Golden Sand & Harbour Views

Tenby is one of Wales’ most picturesque seaside towns, with colourful Georgian houses, a historic harbour, and multiple sandy beaches. North Beach is typically the most dog-friendly option in Tenby, offering long stretches of sand during low tide and stunning views of Goskar Rock, ideal for dog friendly holidays in Tenby.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Big sandy areas for running

  • Calm waters for paddling

  • Great coastal views

  • Plenty of dog-friendly cafés nearby

Dog Restrictions

Dogs are allowed on parts of the beach outside high summer, with designated dog-friendly sections even during peak season.

Who It’s Best For

Dogs who love long sandy runs and owners who enjoy relaxed, scenic town beaches.

Well behaved hound on a dog friendly beach in Wales

2. Tenby South Beach – A Vast Sandy Playground

Tenby’s South Beach stretches for nearly two miles, offering one of the biggest dog-friendly beaches in Pembrokeshire. Even with summer restrictions, the beach is so vast that dog-friendly zones remain easy to access.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Incredible space to run free

  • Dunes for sniffing & playing

  • Soft sand throughout

  • Great for long, peaceful walks

Who It’s Best For

Active dogs, families, and long-distance walkers looking for panoramic coastal views.

Two small dogs running side by side next to the waves

3. Saundersfoot Beach – Family Friendly & Beautiful

Just around the headland from Tenby, Saundersfoot Beach blends seaside charm with easy, dog-friendly access. The town itself is a welcoming, family-friendly village with lots of places happy to see dogs, making it ideal for dog friendly holidays in Saundersfoot.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Long sandy bay

  • Gradual shallow water entry

  • Beachfront promenade for strolls

  • Café stops built into the walk

Dog Restrictions

Seasonal restrictions apply on the central beach in summer, but nearby areas remain dog-friendly.

Who It’s Best For

Social dogs, families, and those wanting easy coastal facilities.

Energetic dog running in the shallow water by the sea

4. Broad Haven North – A Dog-Walking Favourite

Situated in St Brides Bay, Broad Haven North is a wide, sandy beach surrounded by rugged cliffs, rock pools, and gentle rolling waves. It’s one of Pembrokeshire’s most consistently dog-friendly beaches and ideal for dog friendly holidays in Broad Haven.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Year-round dog access (except tiny summer areas)

  • Soft sand for comfortable running

  • Beautiful coastal path link to Little Haven

  • Rock pools for exploring at low tide

Who It’s Best For

Dogs who love big beaches, nature lovers, couples, and walkers.

Large friendly dog walking on the sandy beach in Newport

5. Newport Sands (Traeth Mawr) – A Dream Beach for Dogs

Newport Sands is one of the most spacious and scenic dog-friendly beaches in Pembrokeshire. With its golden sands stretching across the bay, this is a paradise for energetic dogs who need plenty of space. You’ll find plenty of dog friendly cottages in Newport for rent listed with us, many that enjoy sea views.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Huge beach at low tide

  • Perfect for long off-lead runs

  • Shallow areas for confident paddlers

  • Views across the bay to Newport village

Additional Highlights

Grab a coffee from nearby cafés on the Parrog side of the estuary before taking the beach path.

Who It’s Best For

Active dogs, paddle lovers, and those wanting a mellow seaside vibe.

Dog sitting up on the sandy beach in Pembrokeshire

6. Barafundle Bay – A Stunning Dog-Friendly Hidden Gem

Often compared to beaches in the Mediterranean, Barafundle Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Wales – and dogs are welcome! You’ll need to walk a scenic half-mile from Stackpole Quay car park, but the reward is a pristine golden cove.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Remote, quiet sands

  • Soft sand perfect for running

  • Gentle waves

  • Space to explore without crowds

Who It’s Best For

Adventurous dogs and owners who enjoy a scenic walk before reaching the sand.

Small dog walking on the beach with a stick in its mouth

7. Freshwater West – Surf, Dunes & Wild Beauty

This dramatic Atlantic beach is a favourite among surfers, photographers, and long-distance walkers. It’s also a fantastic dog-friendly beach year-round with huge amounts of space.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Endless dunes

  • Wide beach with loads of sniffing opportunities

  • Shallow tidal zones

  • Constant breeze for cooling pups

Safety Note

The waves can be strong – safe for paddling, not deep swimming.

Who It’s Best For

Energetic dogs and owners who appreciate wild, windswept scenery.

Two dogs running out of the sea with a ball

8. Marloes Sands – Rugged, Remote & Beautiful

Marloes Sands offers a wide, sweeping bay surrounded by cliffs, coves and dramatic rock formations. It’s one of the more remote beaches on this list – and ideal if your dog loves exploring.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Long open sands

  • Cliff-backed walks

  • Rock pools galore

  • Soft sand perfect for fast running

Who It’s Best For

Explorers, nature lovers, and dogs needing space.

Golden coloured retriever sitting in the shallow water

9. Whitesands Bay – Big Waves & Epic Walks

A favourite with surfers and walkers, Whitesands Bay sits beneath the rugged peaks of St David’s Head. It is one of Pembrokeshire’s most scenic beaches.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Big sandy stretch

  • Great for long walks

  • Opportunities for games and swimming

  • Coastal path access with panoramic views

Dog Restrictions

Small areas restricted in peak season, but large sections remain dog-friendly.

Who It’s Best For

Adventurous dogs, surf lovers, hikers.

Soaking wet dog after swimming in the sea

10. Freshwater East – Peaceful Bay & Gentle Seas

Freshwater East is a calmer, more sheltered bay than Freshwater West. With wide sands, dunes, and almost year-round dog access, it’s a peaceful choice for dog-loving families.

Why Dogs Love It

  • Lots of space to roam

  • Softer waves and shallower waters

  • Easy parking

  • Access to coastal path routes

Who It’s Best For

Families, older dogs, and relaxed holiday-makers.

Tips for Visiting Pembrokeshire Beaches with Your Dog

1. Check Tide Times

Some Pembrokeshire beaches almost disappear at high tide, so plan for plenty of space.

2. Bring water & a drinking bowl

Even cooler days can be thirsty for energetic dogs.

3. Respect seasonal rules

Peak summer restrictions help keep beaches clean and safe – but many sections remain dog-friendly.

4. Keep an eye on currents

Some beaches have strong tidal currents.

5. Explore the coast path

Many of these beaches link directly to scenic cliff-top trails.

With its mix of sandy bays, wild Atlantic views and dog-friendly villages, Pembrokeshire is truly one of the best regions in the UK for coastal adventures with your dog. From the bustling beaches of Tenby to the peaceful sands of Newport and the dramatic cliffs of Marloes Sands, each destination offers something unique – whether you’re planning a winter getaway, spring break or a long summer holiday. If you are considering other locations apart from Pembrokeshire, then you may want to explore all of the dog friendly sea view cottages in Wales listed with us, many that are located right by a dog friendly beach.