Do you live near a dog friendly beach – Scotland?
For dog owners who love spending time by the seaside, finding dog-friendly beaches can be a bit of a challenge. However, despite the fact that many beaches around the British coast do not allow dogs all year round, there is still plenty of opportunity for pet owners and their furry friends to enjoy the outdoors together. Thankfully, the majority of beaches are open to dogs outside the summer season, which runs from 1st October to 30th April. For responsible dog owners, there is no need to miss out on all the fun of exploring the coastline, even during the colder months of the year.
What makes a good dog-friendly beach?
When it comes to finding a safe beach for our furry friends, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, access to drinking water is essential to ensure that our pups stay hydrated and healthy during their day at the beach. Additionally, shaded areas can provide a reprieve from the hot sun and prevent overheating and proper facilities for disposing of your dog’s waste are a must. It’s also important to consider the quality of the water, as some beaches may have high levels of bacteria or pollution that could harm our dogs. It’s also important to ensure that the water is free from hazardous materials and that the shoreline is clean and free of sharp objects. Always remember to keep an eye on your dog and avoid large waves or strong currents.
Another factor to keep in mind is the proximity of veterinarians or animal hospitals in case of an emergency. Finally, easy and ample parking can make the beach day less stressful for both dogs and their owners. With these precautions in mind, you and your canine companion can safely enjoy a day at the beach!
Skin and paw protection at the beach
Just like us humans, dogs need protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Lighter coloured dogs, especially those with sparsely-haired areas, are more vulnerable to sunburn, which can be uncomfortable and even painful. Additionally, sunlight can make existing skin conditions worse, especially if your furry friend has allergies. If your dog swims in the sea, remember to rinse the salt water and sand from your dog’s coat after to avoid drying out and irritating their skin and reapply suncream to the most exposed areas like the tips of ears and nose.
The best way to prevent these issues is to keep your dog off the beach and preferably indoors during the hottest times of the day, from around 11.am to 3.pm. Applying a non-toxic, waterproof sunblock can also help, either a human one or a specially made pet version. Remember to care for your dog’s delicate paws and pads as well. If the sand is too hot to touch, it’s too hot for their delicate paw pads too. So, be mindful of your four-legged companion’s comfort and protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
My top 10 dog-friendly beaches Scotland
I have to start with Scotland as this is my home and I have visited many good Scottish dog-friendly beaches over the years. Most of our Scottish beaches do not have many facilities therefore it is important to pack the essentials for your dog before your trip.
My home town Findhorn.
All year-round access for your dog. Located near the village of Findhorn, Findhorn Beach is a must-visit destination along the Moray coast. This long and serene beach is known for its uninterrupted stretch of fine white sand and stunning dunes that are perfect for exploring. With convenient car parking, public toilets, access to water, and dog waste bins, you can rest easy knowing you and our pooch will have a comfortable visit. The beach’s popularity among tourists is undeniable, and it’s easy to see why. Take a peaceful stroll along the coastline towards Roseisle and Burghead and experience the tranquillity that only Findhorn Beach can deliver. When you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to stop by one of the restaurants or at the ice cream shop overlooking Findhorn Bay.
Dogs – welcome all year round
Lossiemouth East Beach
Nestled at the mouth of River Lossie and just between Nairn and Banff, enjoy a peaceful experience on this tranquil stretch of beach. Take in its serene beauty as you wander along dunes of lush grass while enjoying an unforgettable day by the sea.
Located on the stunning coast of Spey Bay, visitors with their dogs can soak up plenty of natural beauty and wildlife at East Beach. With golden sand stretching for miles along low tide, this spot is popular amongst surfers and water sports enthusiasts alike. On sunny days you’ll find sunbathers in the dunes while also enjoying views to Buckie and Bin of Cullen off into the distance. The seaside scene includes a range of interesting birds – with ospreys spotted occasionally! There are seals nearby too plus dolphins out in deeper waters – not forgetting lovely Lossiemouth town just further inland which has great shops as well as its own charming harbour area.
Dogs – welcome all year round
Uig Sands (Tràigh Uige / Ardroil beach) My favourite holiday destination.
All year-round access for your dog. Uig Bay, located on the West Coast of the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, is a beautiful and serene spot that offers stunning views of the ocean. Its name is derived from the Norse word for “bay,” and known for its great natural beauty. The beach itself is a long stretch of golden sand, perfect for walking along with your four-legged friend and enjoying the fresh sea air. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a place to explore, Uig Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone venturing to the Outer Hebrides.
Make sure you pack your doggie essentials for this adventure, most importantly fresh water and poo bags.
Dogs – welcome all year round
Camas Daraich Beach (Sound of Sleat Beach)
Nestled in the bay of a remote corner on Skye lies Camas Daraich, an untouched gem hidden within craggy cliffs and crystal clear blue waters. Its small strip of soft white sand provides for a truly captivating landscape, framing this breathtaking beach against one of Scotland’s most rugged coastlines.
Nestled away on the Isle of Skye, and far from the teeming crowds at its most popular attractions. To get there you will have to walk for over an hour from Sleat – but that effort can pay off in solitude! Once there, why not witness breathtaking views by exploring further out to Point of Sleat? In addition to unforgettable scenery, this spot is known for being a great place for spotting wildlife such as porpoises and dolphins. Don’t miss your chance to experience nature like never before when visiting Camas Daraich beach!
Dogs – welcome all year round
Coldingham Bay – Scottish Borders
The beach is the perfect destination for a peaceful and relaxing getaway, with its 1-kilometre stretch of clean sand illuminated by the early morning sunlight. There are plenty of grassy areas inland to explore at your leisure, as well as historic huts near the northernmost point that provide an extra touch of nostalgia. For those feeling adventurous enough to tackle it, Homeli Knoll offers impressive views along England’s rugged coastline from atop a steep grassy summit – while further south lies Yellow Craig cliff which stands tall at 30 metres high against dramatic ocean backdrops!
Coldingham Bay offers an array of awe-inspiring attractions for those looking to explore the great outdoors. At low tide, young adventurers can uncover a fascinating range of wonders – from hermit crabs and anemones in its many rockpools, to wildflowers fluttering around its dunes during summertime. For slightly more experienced explorers seeking longer journeys, there’s also the Berwickshire Coastal Path which stretches out towards St Abbs and Eyemouth as well as historic ruins such as that of Coldingham Priory – built all the way back in 1098 by King Edgar I!
Dogs – welcome all year round
One of my sisters favorite beaches to visit. Enjoy some time in nature at this tranquil and quiet sandy beach, located between the majestic dunes of Fife with a spectacular view over the Firth of Forth. There’s lots to do here – from kayaking or canoeing through to swimming, surfing or windsurfing! If fishing tickles your fancy then there are plenty opportunities for that too. The slipway is available if you want access by boat as well.
Dogs – keep note that due to local regulations dogs may not be allowed onsite during summer periods (May-September).
Yellowcraig Beach (Broad Sands Bay)
Yellowcraigs, or Broad Sands Bay as it is affectionately called by locals, offers a stunning natural beach setting with unrivalled views of Fidra Island and its iconic 1885 lighthouse. But that’s not all – the island was rumoured to be an inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventure novel Treasure Island!
At Yellowcraigs, fun for the whole family is ready to be explored! For kids there is a pirate-themed play area and the whole family can take in nature’s beauty along trails through lush grasslands and wooded areas. It is a perfect picnic spot, with BBQ areas to enjoy a summer feast and dog walks nearby with poo bins provided. Plus, it’s easy walking distance from Dirleton – an historic town bursting with pubs and shops that are popular among visitors – as well as 13th century Dirleton Castle!
Dogs – welcome all year round
Sango Bay ((Sangomore) Durness)
Sango Bay is a stunning beach located on the northern coast of Scotland. Its vista features three smaller coves and an expanse of golden sand that’s decorated with majestic rock stacks, skerries, and other geological formations. Taking in its breathtaking beauty would make for an unforgettable day at one of nature’s greatest masterpieces!
Unspoiled by crowds, Sango Sands is one of our many beautiful beaches in Scotland’s rugged northern coast. From steep dunes to machair-covered lowlands, here you’ll find a stunning display of nature at every turn; including sheer cliffs like Creag Thairbhe that rise dramatically from the sea. And just above sits The Sango Sands campsite making it easy (and popular!) for campers who come to bask in its remote beauty.
Dogs – welcome all year round but must be kept under complete control (so make sure you have a lead and poo bags of course).
Oldshoremore Beach (Am Mellan)
Living in the north of Scotland we have our pick of amazing beaches, so in the summer months we often venture north-west where you will find some of the most beautiful tranquil and often deserted beaches in the world. This is one of them.
Oldshoremore Beach is a real hidden gem of Scotland. Situated in the remote Sutherland area near Kinlochbervie, it boasts stunning views and crystal clear waters – an absolute beauty, pure Scottish paradise!
Am Mellan’s white sand beach is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Comprised of stones and crushed seashells, the one-mile stretch is an idyllic escape from everyday life – set apart by its separation to neighbouring Polin Beach courtesy of Eilean na h-Aiteig peninsula.
Take advantage of the small car park near toilets and traverse across dunes via an enchanting, narrow footpath to reach this special paradise by crystal blue waters – ideal for camping or contemplative strolls alongside rocky outcrops where you can even search for seashells! But beware: due to high tides at times there may be no sand visible from shore.
Dogs – welcome all year round but please be mindful and respectful, don’t spoil paradise.
South Beach in Golspie is the perfect place for a sunshine-filled day of beach bliss. With its award-winning wide expanse of golden sands, this charming fishing village offers crystal clear waters and some of the cleanest sand around – ideal conditions to build that famous sandcastle! On warm days you can enjoy views over calming seas, lounging around with your kids attempt to bury the resting dog and build sand castles.
Golspie beach is a picturesque paradise that offers stunning views of the Moray Firth. Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve is also not far away, providing an unforgettable nature watching experience!
Dogs – welcome all year round with no restrictions but please be mindful and respectful
Happy beach days
So, with all of this in mind, Scotland’s dog friendly beaches have a lot to offer. Whether you are looking for a beautiful beach to take a leisurely stroll with your four-legged friends, or somewhere to explore the wild cliffs and raging tides that Scotland’s west coast has to offer, we’ve got something for everyone. But remember, as visitors to these gorgeous locations it is our responsibility to keep our beaches safe and clean. Let’s do our part in preserving these wonderful spots of nature for generations yet to come. Who knows, maybe your pup will make some lasting memories here that go down in family legend! Go find some respite from your day-to-day life by spending some quality adventure time at one of Scotland’s many dog-friendly beaches.
