There's nothing quite like setting off along the coast with your dog trotting happily by your side – the salt air, the wide open views, the simple joy of a good walk together. The south coast of England is one of the finest places in the country to enjoy exactly that, with dramatic cliff paths, sweeping sandy beaches and charming seaside villages all within easy reach of your holiday home.
Whether you're planning a short break in the New Forest, a Dorset escape, or a Devon adventure, we've rounded up some of the best dog-friendly coastal walks along the south coast – with distance notes, local highlights, and a few well-earned pit stop suggestions along the way. Lace up your boots, clip on the lead and let's explore!
Dog-Friendly Coastal Walks in Dorset
1. Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door – South West Coast Path
Distance: 2-3 miles one way (4-6 miles return) | Difficulty: Moderate
No guide to south coast dog walks would be complete without Durdle Door. The walk from Lulworth Cove to this iconic limestone arch is every bit as spectacular as you'd hope. Following the South West Coast Path west from Lulworth, the trail climbs steeply before rewarding you with panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast. The path then descends to the famous natural arch framing brilliant turquoise water below.
It's a moderately challenging route with some steep sections, but your dog will love bounding through the open countryside and clifftop grassland. Carry water for both of you, as there are limited facilities on the route. If you and your four-legged friend still have energy to spare, the South West Coast Path continues to White Nothe, though the terrain becomes more remote and demanding.
Staying nearby? Our holiday homes in Dorset put you within easy reach of the Jurassic Coast, with the countryside right on your doorstep.
2. Portland Coastal Loop – Portland Bill Lighthouse and Church Ope Cove
Distance: Approximately 12 miles | Difficulty: Challenging
For those who love a big adventure, a full loop of the Isle of Portland is an unforgettable day out. Cross the causeway from Chesil Beach onto Portland (a tied island), and pick up the South West Coast Path as it hugs the rugged cliffs around the island's perimeter.
Highlights include Portland Bill Lighthouse, where you can pause to take in sweeping sea views and watch ships passing through the busy shipping channel, and the lovely tucked-away Church Ope Cove on the eastern side. The landscape has a wild quality that makes this one of the most distinctive dog-friendly coastal walks on the south coast. Pack plenty of snacks and water. There are refreshment stops along the way, but it's wise to be prepared for such a long route.
3. Osmington Mills to Bowleaze Cove – Jurassic Coast
Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles one way | Difficulty: Moderate
This beautiful section of the South West Coast Path takes in rolling hills, sea views, and open countryside as it winds between the village of Osmington Mills and Bowleaze Cove. The route offers classic Dorset coastal scenery (the sea to one side, gentle farmland to the other) with some satisfying ascents that make the views feel properly earned.
At Osmington Mills, you'll find the dog-friendly Smugglers Inn. Dogs are welcome inside and out, which makes it a perfect reward at the end of a good coastal walk with your dog.
4. Abbotsbury Beach – Chesil Bank and Fleet Lagoon Nature Reserve
Distance: Variable | Difficulty: Easy
If you're looking for a more relaxed dog-friendly coastal walk on the south coast, Abbotsbury Beach beside the Chesil Bank is a good option. This sand and shingle stretch sits alongside the Fleet Lagoon Nature Reserve, making it a haven for birdlife. You and your dog can enjoy a peaceful stroll with the chance of spotting all manner of coastal birds along the way.
Dogs are welcome here all year round with no seasonal restrictions. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried, the scenery quietly beautiful – a lovely contrast to the more dramatic cliff paths elsewhere on the Dorset coast.
Note: Chesil Beach itself does have summer restrictions on parts of the beach, so Abbotsbury is the reliable dog-friendly choice for year-round visits.
Dog-Friendly Coastal Walks in Devon
5. The South West Coast Path, Ilfracombe – North Devon
Distance: Variable | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
North Devon's coastline is gloriously dog-friendly, and the beaches around Ilfracombe make an excellent starting point.
From Ilfracombe, the South West Coast Path stretches in both directions, offering everything from gentle cliff-top strolls to longer, more demanding hikes across more rugged and dramatic coastline in England. The path takes in views over the Bristol Channel and out towards Wales on a clear day. Our pet-friendly Devon holiday homes make a wonderful base for exploring this stretch of the south coast with your dog.
6. Babbacombe Beach and the South West Coast Path – South Devon
Distance: Variable | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
On the English Riviera east of Torquay, Babbacombe offers an unspoilt arc of shingle beach beneath cliffs, with clear water and a tranquil atmosphere. Babbacombe Downs above the beach is one of the highest promenades in England at around 300ft above sea level.
From Babbacombe, take the South West Coast Path towards Torquay, past Hope's Nose, for more stunning south Devon coastal scenery. There's a café within walking distance for a well-earned rest once you've both had your fill of the sea air.
Dog-Friendly Coastal Walks in Hampshire and the New Forest
7. Lepe Country Park – The Solent Shore
Distance: Approximately 3-4 miles | Difficulty: Easy
Lepe Country Park on the Hampshire coast is a favourite with dog owners. The walk along the shingle and grass foreshore beside the Solent offers open space, gorgeous views across to the Isle of Wight, and a relaxed atmosphere. Dogs love the freedom of the open ground and the chance to explore the shoreline at their own pace.
The walk is easy-going and suitable for all fitness levels. There's ample parking and good facilities at the country park itself. It's a wonderful spot for watching the constant procession of yachts and vessels crossing the Solent, although your dog will likely be more interested in the smells along the tideline.
8. Hurst Spit to Hurst Castle – New Forest Coast
Distance: Approximately 3 miles return | Difficulty: Easy
One of the most characterful dog-friendly coastal walks on the south coast, Hurst Spit is a shingle peninsula that juts out into the Solent with Hurst Castle at its tip. The walk along the spit itself, with water on both sides, is an exhilarating experience, especially on a blustery day when the waves are breaking either side of the path.
The castle at the end has a fascinating history, and the views across to the Isle of Wight are spectacular. Your dog will love the open space and the coastal breeze. Our New Forest holiday homes provide a perfect base for getting to know the Hampshire coast.
Tips for Dog-Friendly Coastal Walks on the South Coast
A few practical things to bear in mind before heading out on any of these south coast dog walks:
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Always carry fresh water for your dog. A collapsible travel bowl is easy to pack and your dog will thank you for it.
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Check the tide times before you set off on any beach walk. Some stretches become very narrow at high tide and a few may be impassable.
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Keep your dog on a lead near livestock and cliff edges. The South West Coast Path in particular passes through farmland and the cliff edges, while spectacular, require care. A well-fitted harness rather than just a collar can give you more control on steep terrain.
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Check seasonal dog restrictions on your chosen beach before you go. While many south coast beaches welcome dogs year-round, some introduce restrictions between May and September.
Your Perfect Base for South Coast Dog Walks
Many of our Short Stay Homes holiday properties welcome dogs, so there's no need to leave your faithful companion behind. Whether you're after a cosy thatched cottage in the New Forest, a riverside lodge in Hampshire or a characterful Dorset escape, we have beautiful dog-friendly holiday homes right across the south coast.
Properties come with comfortable spaces for dogs to settle after a long walk, and our team's local knowledge to help you find the very best dog-friendly walks, pubs, and beaches right on your doorstep. We'd love to help you plan your next coastal adventure together. Please contact us or check availability online.
