15 best dog friendly beaches in Kent, UK
Kent’s stunning coastline is nothing less than a treasure trove of natural beauty, with its picturesque bays, white chalk cliffs, and unparalleled beach vistas no matter the time of year! Known for its iconic coastal destinations, this south eastern region of England is a paradise for those who seek adventure, relaxation, and fresh sea air, and I’m one of them.
No matter if you’re dog owners or dog walkers, everything you need to know is right here for the best dog friendly beaches in Kent. It is a place where maritime history meets modern-day leisure, offering visitors the best of both worlds.
Amidst all this spectacular scenery, dog lovers tend to worry about finding dog-friendly beaches where their furry friends can frolic in the sand and surf. Thankfully, Kent is home to plenty of dog-friendly beaches, catering to the needs of our four-legged friends.
Well, there’s no need to look any further, the following beaches have got you covered, with no dog restrictions! Here is your beach guide for the main 15 best dog friendly beaches and sea shores in Kent, UK, where you can absorb the sun, have a good time with your little guy, and make memories that will last forevermore. So keep reading for the best dog friendly beaches in Kent!
You might be interested in my other Kent blogs and hot tub holidays:
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Meet Ruby. I don’t know anyone that doesn’t love her. She likes bacon, extra tummy rubs and ear scratches.
Quick tip – check low tide and high tide times to make sure that you don’t get caught out anywhere along the coast. Some of the cliffs by Dover have cliff walls where I nearly got caught out when the tide was coming back in! It’s worth bearing in mind that The White Cliffs fall under the national trust country park which is also equally a beautiful place to roam, with open fields and great walks.
Dog Friendly Pubs
Don’t forget there’s loads of dog friendly pubs for you to visit too. A lot of them actually provide dog treats too!
Look up the following pubs:
- The King’s Head
- Old Neptune
- Four Fathoms
- The Port arms
- The Jolly Fisherman
- The Pilot Inn
- The Ocean Inn
Look no further for the top 15 best dog friendly beaches in Kent, UK!
1. Botany Bay
Botany Bay is a great spot and popular family beach, located near Broadstairs in Kent, UK, is widely regarded as one of the best beaches for your furry little friend in the area.
This secluded cove boasts stunning white cliffs (the sea wall makes for a stunning back drop) and rock pools that provide a picturesque day out with your furry friend. Possibly one of the best dog friendly beaches in Kent!
With a local car park facilities and ample space to roam, Botany Bay is a great place to take your dog for a walk. There are severe guidelines set up to guarantee the security of all guests, including canines, like keeping your canine on a lead at specific times and tidying up after your pet.
You can enjoy a game of fetch with your furry buddy on the sandy beach, it doesn’t matter if you have a small or large dog, you’ve got the whole beach to play on.
The perfectly clear waters give a reviving break to both you and your little guy, making it an extraordinary spot to try things out and lounge under the sun. You can even opt to stay and watch the beautiful sunset at the end of a long day.
One of the most iconic dog friendly beaches in Kent!
2. Joss Bay
Joss Bay is truly an excellent spot and hidden gem when it comes to dog friendly beaches in Kent, UK thanks to its huge open spaces. Located on the coast of Broadstairs, Joss Bay provides a picturesque setting for dogs and their owners to enjoy a day in the sun and surf.
This stunning beach is surrounded by high cliffs and provides breath-taking panoramic views across the English Channel. Dogs of all sizes are welcome on the beach, but owners are kindly asked to keep them on a lead between May 1st and September 30th.
One of the key appeals of Joss Bay, apart from its stunning beauty, lies in its extensive facilities for dogs and their owners and of course, makes it one of the best dog friendly beaches in Kent.
There are dog water bowls and even a special doggy shower, so your pet can get cleaned up after a long day of playing in the sand and sea.
3. Minnis Bay
Minnis Bay is undoubtedly the best dog-friendly beach in Kent, UK. Situated just to the north of Birchington-on-Sea, it boasts a long stretch of beach with clean sand and clear waters, providing the perfect place for dogs to run and play. Definitely one of the best dog friendly beaches in Kent!
Likewise, there’s a lot of room for you to unwind and soak up the English Channel from the long, sandy cove. Dogs are welcome all year round, and there are no restrictions on the times they can visit.
However, there is a particular area towards the west of the beach where dogs must be kept on a lead. This helps to maintain a safe and peaceful environment for all visitors.
One of my favourite dog friendly beaches in Kent!
Well-known exercises for canines and their owners incorporate strolling along the ocean side, taking a plunge in the water, and playing fetch on the sand. With its stunning location and dog-friendly ethos, Minnis Bay is the ultimate destination for pet owners looking for a fun day out by the sea on one of the most lovely dog friendly beaches in Kent.
4. St. Mildred’s Bay
St. Mildred’s Bay is a hidden gem on the coast of Kent, known for its incredible views of the English Channel and its dog-friendly beaches, of course. Situated by Westgate-on-Sea, the beach boasts a long stretch of soft sands that are perfect for dogs to run and play on, which you’ll enjoy watching them sprint around on.
The calm waters of the bay also make it a safe spot for dogs to swim, while their owners laze on the beach and soak up the sunshine and it is one of the most iconic dog friendly beaches in Kent!
In terms of dog-friendly rules and regulations, St. Mildred’s Bay has a leash-free policy before 9am and after 6pm during the summer months, making it an ideal spot for early morning or late evening walks with your furry friend.
There are also designated areas for dog waste disposal and free poop bags available on the beach. Enjoy watching the fishing boats in the sea whilst you enjoy the laid back atmosphere. With its breath taking scenery and welcoming community, it’s no wonder why St. Mildred’s Bay is considered one of the best dog friendly beaches in Kent.
5. Viking Bay
Viking Bay is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and sought-after dog-friendly beaches in all of Kent, UK. Located in the charming seaside town of Broadstairs, Viking Bay boasts unique, golden sands that stretch over a distance of 200 metres. One of the most iconic dog friendly beaches in Kent!
The seafront is dotted with vibrant beach huts, and the bay is surrounded by towering white cliffs that provide spectacular views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside. Understandably, this stunning little corner of Kent is a popular destination for families and their furry friends because of it being one of the best iconic dog friendly beaches in Kent, with the beach frequently featured on lists of the best dog-friendly destinations in the UK.
What’s more, dog owners appreciate the strict regulations in place to ensure that all beachgoers (canine and human alike) can enjoy the beach while staying safe and healthy.
Canines are welcome around the ocean all year, yet during top periods (from May to September), there are limitations set up to guarantee that everybody can partake nearby in solace and security.
During this period (between 10 am and 6 pm), canines should stay on leads, despite the fact that they are allowed to meander off-chain during the early morning or late night.
Along the front of the ocean side, there are a lot of canine waste receptacles keeping the beach nice and clean. For canines and their owners (dog lovers more like), Viking Straight is the ideal spot for various exercises, including swimming, paddle boarding, and basically absorbing the sun.
Following a day of fun in the sun, owners can visit one of the numerous cafés and bistros nearby, some of which are canine well disposed of, serving pet-accommodating feasts and rewards.
6. Tankerton Beach
Tankerton Beach is widely considered as one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Kent, UK with a long stretch of shingle for them to play on. This picturesque shingle beach is located in Whitstable, overlooking the stunning and serene views of the North Sea.
The ocean side traverses north of two miles and offers more than adequate space for dogs to skip around and play while their owners partake in the tranquil environmental elements.
The ocean side is effectively available and has a lot of parking spaces for guests. The spotless and clear waters at the ocean side make it an ideal spot for canines to chill off during blistering mid year days.
The ocean side likewise has a promenade that offers a beautiful stroll for both canine owners and their fuzzy buddies.
Tankerton Ocean side has assigned canine zones, where canines can wander and play with next to no limitations. Nonetheless, owners are expected to keep their canines on a rope in different regions. One of the most iconic dog friendly beaches in Kent!
Ruby having the time of her life in the sand. She loves to leap around and thinks she’s a horse on one of my favourite dog friendly beaches in Kent!!
7. Margate Main Sands
Margate Main Sands is arguably the best dog-friendly beach in Kent, UK, and it’s easy to see why. The beach stretches over a mile and is backed by a promenade lined with shops and cafes. It offers stunning views of the sea and the iconic Margate Harbour Arm. Dog owners will be pleased to know that the beach is open to dogs all year round and that there are dog-friendly facilities such as water bowls, bins, and pooper-scooper dispensers. Furthermore, there are designated areas where dogs can run off-leash, and beach patrols to ensure that the rules are being followed.
8. Stone Bay
When it comes to the best dog-friendly beaches in Kent, UK, Stone Bay is undoubtedly one of the top contenders for having some of the best dog friendly beaches in Kent. Located in Broadstairs, Stone Bay is a scenic and secluded crescent-shaped beach flanked by towering cliffs and the famous colourful beach huts.
The beach is a sheltered little spot where dogs and their owners can enjoy some quality time together away from the crowded tourist areas.
Stone Bay is also famous for its crystal clear waters and golden sands which attract visitors from all over the country. As for the dog-friendly rules and regulations, Stone Bay allows dogs all year round on the beach and only requires them to be kept on a lead between May and September.
It’s home to a few canine-accommodating bistros and cafés where you can sit and partake in a dinner or a beverage with your shaggy companion close by.
9. Dumpton Gap
Dumpton Gap, located on the Kent coast, is no doubt one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK. With its picturesque pebble bay, clear seawater, and spectacular cliff walks, this tranquil haven draws visitors from all over, and why wouldn’t they, as one of the renowned dog friendly beaches in Kent.
Don’t forget to stop by some of the neighbourhood bistros and bars, making it a famous spot for sightseers. Dogs are welcome lasting throughout the year, notwithstanding, during the pinnacle Christmas season, dogs should be kept on a lead between 10 am and 6 pm.
Additionally, owners must clean up after their dogs, and there are several dog waste bins located throughout the beach.
10. Louisa Bay
Located in Broadstairs, Kent, Louisa Bay is a picturesque and dog-friendly beach that offers a memorable experience for both pets and their owners.
The beach is surrounded by cliffs and boasts stunning clear waters, making it a perfect setting for a romantic stroll or a fun family day out with your dog, making a great places for the best dog friendly beaches in Kent!
One of the vital benefits of Louisa Straight is that it permits canines to roam uninhibitedly near the ocean for however long they wish.
There are also plenty of dog waste bins placed conveniently throughout the beach to ensure that the pristine environment is maintained. Louisa Bay has undoubtedly earned its title as the best dog friendly beach in Kent, UK.
11. Samphire Hoe
The Samphire hoe is a shingle beach which is perfect for dog walking; it’s actually a wonderful place. This little spot is a secluded coastal location with natural beauty and great views.
It also comes with a nice little cafe (a hut, in reality) which sells food, drinks and ice-cream. And it definitely allows dogs!
Sit back and watch the migratory birds that fly past the Kent beaches at different times of the year on one of the best dog beaches in Kent!
12. Pegwell Bay
I found this gorgeous little bay to be surprisingly quiet. It’s a nature reserve and you can find a replica Scandinavian boat which is definitely something. It’s an excellent place to take the dog for a walk. Quiet with good views.
When it is low tide you can walk from Ramsgate to Cliffsend, just dont get caught out in the water!. There’s a chalk sea bed along the Ramsgate part that has some very interesting rock pools.
It does turn into mud flats near Cliffsend. Keep walking towards sandwich and you’ll find some salt marshes. One of my favourite dog friendly beaches in Kent!
13. Romney Marsh Beach
Romney Marsh is a stunning coastal area in Kent, England, and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. The beaches here are largely shingle beaches, and they stretch for miles along the coastline.
One of the most popular beaches in the area is Greatstone Beach, which is located on the eastern end of Romney Marsh. The beach here is a long and wide stretch of shingle, and it is an excellent spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. There are plenty of facilities available at Greatstone Beach, including public toilets, cafes, and shops.
Another popular beach in the area is Camber Sands, which is located on the western end of Romney Marsh. Camber Sands is an enormous and wide sandy ocean side, and it is quite possibly of the most pleasant ocean side nearby.
The ocean side is upheld by sand hills, which makes it an incredible spot for climbing and investigating. One of my favourite dog friendly beaches in Kent!
14. Folkestone
Folkestone are two shoreline towns situated on the Kent coast, and they are home to the absolute most gorgeous sea shores in the locale. They have a long stretched of shingle beach, and they are popular spots for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Folkestone Beach is a long and wide shingle beach that stretches for miles along the coastline. The beach is backed by a promenade, which makes it an excellent spot for walking and cycling.
There are plenty of facilities available at Folkestone Beach, including public toilets, showers, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. One of the all time great dog friendly beaches in Kent!
15. Herne Bay
Herne Bay Beach is another popular spot on the Kent coast which you’ll love. The beach here is a long and wide shingle beach, and it is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. There are plenty of facilities available at Herne Bay Beach, including public toilets, cafes, and shops.
There’s quite a few other places for you to explore on your days out if the above locations don’t ticket your fancy; Dover seafront, Kingsgate bay, Shakespeare beach, Herne bay pier and pier avenue west to name a few. The dover seafront has a nice sandy beach nearby and a dog-friendly park, which you’ll no doubt love.
One of my favourite dog friendly beaches in Kent!
Weather in Kent
Kent Weather in January
- Average Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Rainy Days: 10
- Daylight Hours: 8
- Sunrise Time: Around 7:50 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 4:30 PM
Kent Weather in February
- Average Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Rainy Days: 8
- Daylight Hours: 10
- Sunrise Time: Around 7:10 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 5:20 PM
Kent Weather in March
- Average Temperature: 6°C (43°F)
- Rainy Days: 9
- Daylight Hours: 12
- Sunrise Time: Around 6:20 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 6:10 PM
Kent Weather in April
- Average Temperature: 8°C (46°F)
- Rainy Days: 9
- Daylight Hours: 14
- Sunrise Time: Around 6:00 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 8:00 PM
Kent Weather in May
- Average Temperature: 12°C (54°F)
- Rainy Days: 8
- Daylight Hours: 16
- Sunrise Time: Around 5:10 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 8:50 PM
Kent Weather in June
- Average Temperature: 15°C (59°F)
- Rainy Days: 8
- Daylight Hours: 16
- Sunrise Time: Around 4:50 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 9:20 PM
Kent Weather in July
- Average Temperature: 17°C (63°F)
- Rainy Days: 7
- Daylight Hours: 16
- Sunrise Time: Around 5:00 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 9:00 PM
Kent Weather in August
- Average Temperature: 17°C (63°F)
- Rainy Days: 7
- Daylight Hours: 14
- Sunrise Time: Around 5:40 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 8:20 PM
Kent Weather in September
- Average Temperature: 14°C (57°F)
- Rainy Days: 8
- Daylight Hours: 12
- Sunrise Time: Around 6:20 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 7:00 PM
Kent Weather in October
- Average Temperature: 11°C (52°F)
- Rainy Days: 10
- Daylight Hours: 10
- Sunrise Time: Around 7:00 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 6:00 PM
Kent Weather in November
- Average Temperature: 7°C (45°F)
- Rainy Days: 10
- Daylight Hours: 8
- Sunrise Time: Around 7:40 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 4:20 PM
Kent Weather in December
- Average Temperature: 5°C (41°F)
- Rainy Days: 10
- Daylight Hours: 8
- Sunrise Time: Around 8:00 AM
- Sunset Time: Around 4:00 PM
I hope you found it helpful reading through some of the most fabulous dog friendly beaches in Kent!
Quick links
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You might be interested in my other Kent blogs:
Best lodges with hot tubs Kent
Quirky and unusual places to stay in Kent
15 best dog friendly beaches in Kent
Best coach day trips and holidays, Kent
That’s it! I hope you found it helpful reading through some of the most fabulous dog friendly beaches in Kent!
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