Dog Friendly Beaches in St Ives Bay – What You Need to Know This Season 2026

Planning a seaside stroll with your four-legged friend? St Ives and the surrounding bay are a dream for dog walks – think golden sands, rolling waves and plenty of space for wagging tails.

As we move into the summer season, it’s important to be aware that seasonal dog restrictions are now coming into place on some of our most popular beaches.  A little planning goes a long way to making sure your day out stays relaxed and enjoyable for everyone.

The good news is that there are still plenty of places for your dog to enjoy the beach year-round.

Dog-friendly Beaches ALL YEAR!

Porth Kidney.dog

Porth Kidney Beach

Secluded and dog-friendly, Porth Kidney Beach offers golden sands and scenic walks near St Ives, with seasonal lifeguards. No nearby facilities.
Harbour Beach

Lambeth Walk

The oddly named Lambeth Walk beach is easily overlooked, despite being almost in the town centre of St Ives.
Dogs in St Ives Bamaluz Beach Crop

Bamaluz Beach

This small rocky and sandy cove is one of the few beaches in St Ives that allows dogs all year around.
Mexico Towans

Mexico Towans Beach

Wild and scenic, Mexico Towans offers golden sands, vast dunes, and rich wildlife, forming part of a three-mile stretch near Hayle and Godrevy.

2026 Seasonal Restrictions – St Ives

From 15 May to 30 September (10am–6pm), dogs are not permitted during the daytime on:

  • Porthmeor Beach
  • Porthminster Beach
  • Carbis Bay Beach

From 1 July to 31 August (10am–6pm), additional restrictions apply to:

  • St Ives Harbour
  • Porthgwidden Beach

Outside of these hours, dogs are welcome – so early morning and evening walks are a great option during the summer months.

2026 Seasonal Restrictions – Hayle & Gwithian Area

Just along the bay, you’ll find miles of stunning coastline in Hayle and Gwithian – perfect for longer walks and big adventures.

  • Hayle Estuary (including Carnsew Pool & Copperhouse Pool):
    Dogs are not permitted at any time to help protect important wildlife habitats.
  • Gwithian, Godrevy & parts of Hayle Towans:
    Seasonal restrictions apply from 1 July to 31 August (10am–6pm).

As always, signage is in place locally, so keep an eye out when you arrive.

Top Tips for a Stress-Free Visit

  • Plan your visit outside restricted hours for the most flexibility
  • Check signage when you arrive, as some areas vary slightly
  • Keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife and other beach users
  • Bring water – sandy adventures can be thirsty work!

 

St Ives & Hayle are incredibly dog-friendly, and with a bit of forward planning, there’s no reason your pup can’t enjoy the very best of the Cornish coast.

For the latest, most up-to-date information on dog-friendly beaches across ALL of Cornwall, head over to the Cornwall Council website:  Dogs on beaches – Cornwall Council before you travel.

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