Devon beaches get very busy in the summer and most have some sort of restriction on where dogs can go on the beach during the summer.
To avoid the crowds, in the summer we usually go early – arriving around 8am when the beach is mainly populated by dog walkers.
If you really want to go during the day, Saunton Sands is probably your best bet because most people congregate in the first few hundred yards (where you have to have your dog on a lead), but as the beach is incredibly long, it is easy to get away from the crowds.
With all of the beaches in summer, be aware that you may simply not be able to park so it’s best to try and get there reasonably early.
Instow, EX39 4HY
A sandy beach on the Taw Estuary. In the summer, dogs are only allowed at the far end of the beach where there is a car park but not much else in the way of facilities. During the winter, Johns of Instow is a dog friendly cafe (use the side door) and delicatessen. There have been issues with water quality here before so worth checking it first.
Saunton sands, Braunton, EX33 2NU
3 1/2 mile beach at the mouth of the Taw Estuary which is completely dog friendly except for the first few hundred yards where you need to keep them on the lead. Very shallow so very safe for paddling and swimming as you will have to go a long way to be out of your depth. Watch out for the tide coming in – because it is shallow it comes in fast so if you are leaving clothes, picnic, chairs etc on the sand, make sure they are well back. Cafe on site.
Westward Ho!, EX39 1LQ
Between 1st May and 30th September dogs are only allowed on the North part which is a pebble beach. During the winter they are allowed on the sandy South beach as well.
Woolacombe, EX34 7DJ
Beautiful sandy beach split into 3 zones in the summer – dog free, dogs on leads and no restrictions. Cafe near to the main car park. Gets very busy in the summer and extremely difficult to park. In the winter they often close the main car park so only the on-road parking is left.
Goldies on tour 