10 dog friendly beaches in Scotland

UK holidays give you the chance to bring along your beloved furry companions, who will love to frolic and explore the sandy beaches - you’ll especially find plenty of dog friendly beaches in Scotland!

Scotland's coastal regions boast an abundance of remarkable beaches, catering to the diverse preferences of your canine friends. Whether your four-legged pal delights in the soft embrace of golden sands at Carnoustie Beach or grassy dunes at Montrose Beach, we’ve curated a selection of Scotland's finest beaches to ensure every taste is indulged. They all have unique features, but one common characteristic is that they are more than happy to welcome your pooch. You’ll be happy to know that they are also a short distance from our dog friendly Scottish holiday parks, so it’s time to explore…

Monfieth Beach

Monfieth Beach is a picturesque sandy beach looking out over the Firth of Tay. The eastern part of the beach is off-limits to the public as it’s part of a military training area. However, you can find a beautiful walking route that passes the beach and stretches from Dundee to the east to Arbroath to the west. These walking paths are ideal for dog walkers.

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Broughty Ferry Beach

In Angus, near Dundee, Broughty Ferry Beach is a popular sandy beach boasting lovely views of the Tay Estuary. This beach is a favourite among many, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a range of fun activities. Your dog can enjoy this nature reserve with you – make sure they are kept to heel. So, why not see if you and your pup can discover such beautiful wildlife for yourselves?

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Carnoustie Beach

Carnoustie Beach is a small, stunning stretch of golden sand renowned for its beautiful scenery, excellent water quality, and golfing heritage. Did you know that this bay is nestled below the Carnoustie Golf Links, which has hosted The Open Championship several times? Plus, this beach is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Scotland.

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Lunan Bay

Lunan Bay is a breathtaking and secluded haven located on the Angus coastline. This beach is widely regarded as one of Scotland's most beautiful and unspoiled beaches, offering a serene and natural environment. The bay is characterised by its vast expanse of golden sand, backed by towering dunes and rugged cliffs. Something you and your pup can experience first-hand.

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Easthaven Beach

This pretty little bay is popular among many, especially dog walkers and families. This hidden gem offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for those seeking a more peaceful coastal experience. What makes this even better is that this dog-friendly beach in Scotland is between a 35–45-minute drive away if you’re holidaying at the Piperdam Leisure Resort!

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Montrose Beach

Montrose Beach is a picturesque sandy beach that stretches for three miles from Montrose to the North Esk River, with stunning views to Scurdieness Lighthouse. You can even find a brilliant circular walk here, perfect for those dog friendly days out! Overall, Montrose Beach offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and convenient amenities.

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Sandyhills Beach

Sandyhills Beach is a large sandy beach on the Dumfries and Galloway coastline. This beach is renowned for its vast expanse of golden sand and waters, which are ideal for paddling. Does your pooch like to splash about in the water? But do check the water quality before splashing in. During low tide, the beach reveals rock pools, offering opportunities for exploring and discovering.

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Kippford Beach

Made up almost entirely of cockle shells, you’ll also find sand and shingle at Kippford Beach. This beach is a hidden gem, offering a tranquil and idyllic setting for those seeking a peaceful coastal escape. A popular spot for sailing and other water sports, with a small harbour and boating facilities in the village, you can sit back with your pooch and watch the world go by.

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Powfoot Beach

This small strip of sand along the coast towards Annan is a birdwatching dream! Powfoot Beach is full of coastal scenery, plus a local coastal footpath, perfect for walks with your pooch, making it one of the best dog friendly beaches in Scotland! Not suitable for swimming but you can paddle here, which makes this destination perfect for families with children and dogs.

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Rockcliffe Beach

Attracting many visitors each year, Rockcliffe Beach is a small spot full of many places of interest, especially as it’s part of a National Scenic Area – plus, there are plenty of National Trust areas around the beach. Overall, Rockcliffe Beach offers a serene and unspoiled natural environment, making it a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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With these dog friendly beaches in Scotland, are you and your pup ready to explore?

Now that you’re set with this top 10 guide of dog friendly beaches in Scotland, are you ready for your next Scottish holiday? Home to the tallest waterfall in Britain, haggis, and bagpipes, there’s so much for you to explore with your pup by your side.

What will make your holiday even better is that there are a range of dog friendly holiday parks that will help you explore the best of Scotland right on your doorstep. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to book your next holiday!

Remember to always check the dog restrictions yourself before visiting as some may vary.