Dog Friendly Holidays in St Ives
Cottages, Walks & Beaches Your Dog Will Love
St Ives is one of Cornwall’s most charming seaside towns and a true favourite for dog owners. With golden beaches, winding cobbled streets, and stunning coastal walks, it’s easy to enjoy every moment with your four-legged friend.
Whether you’re looking for cliff-top strolls, cosy cafés that welcome muddy paws, or a base for exploring West Cornwall, this guide covers the best dog friendly beaches, walks, pubs, and properties in and around St Ives.
Dog Friendly Beaches & Walks in St Ives
Bamaluz Beach
A sheltered cove right in St Ives, Bamaluz Beach is perfect for a quiet stroll with your dog. Dogs are welcome year-round, and the calm waters make it ideal for a gentle paddle or a quick swim.
Porthkidney Beach
This long, sandy beach is perfect for running and playing fetch. It’s popular with dog owners outside the peak summer months, and its wide open space gives plenty of room for off-lead fun.
Mexico Towans to Gwithian Beach
Mexico Towans and most of Gwithian Beach is a great year-round dog-friendly beach. However, part of Gwithian Beach, to the left of the lifeguard hut and steps (facing the sea) and continuing onto Godrevy Beach to the right, does have a seasonal dog restriction. This runs from 1st July to 31st August, between 10 am and 6 pm. Early mornings or evenings in summer are often the nicest times to enjoy these beaches with your dog, when it’s quieter and cooler.
South West Coast Path – St Ives to Zennor
A classic Cornish walk with breathtaking sea views. The trail is suitable for well-behaved dogs and offers plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. Allow 2–3 hours for a gentle pace, and remember to bring water for your dog.
Lelant Towans to Carbis Bay
This flat, sandy route is ideal for dogs that love running off-lead. The towans (sand dunes) provide plenty of space for sniffing and exploring, and there are nearby cafés where dogs are welcome.
Tehidy Woods Circular Walk
Just a short drive from St Ives, this forest walk has shaded paths and streams, perfect for paddling. It’s a quieter alternative to the coast, ideal for energetic dogs who love to roam safely off-lead.
Exploring St Ives with your Dog
Dog Friendly Pubs & Cafés in St Ives
St Ives is renowned for its warm hospitality towards dogs, with numerous establishments welcoming your four-legged friends. Here are some top spots where both you and your dog can enjoy a delightful experience:
The Castle Inn
Located in the heart of St Ives, The Castle Inn is a traditional Cornish pub dating back to the 14th century. Dogs are welcome inside the bar area, and the pub is known for offering free treats to canine visitors. It’s a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, offering a cosy atmosphere and hearty pub fare.
The Sloop Inn
One of the oldest pubs in Cornwall, The Sloop Inn has been serving patrons since around 1312. Situated on the wharf, it boasts a charming bar and an outside decking area where dogs are welcome. The pub offers a selection of local ales and seafood dishes, making it a favourite among both humans and their canine companions.
Scoff Troff Café
A vibrant and dog-friendly café located in the centre of St Ives, Scoff Troff Café opens early, making it perfect for dog walkers. The café is renowned for its hearty breakfasts and globally inspired dishes. Dogs are warmly welcomed, and the staff are known to shower canine visitors with affection.
Practical Tips for Visiting St Ives with a Dog
- Check seasonal beach restrictions – While many beaches are dog-friendly year-round, some have summer limits.
- Bring dog towels and blankets – Sandy paws and wet coats are part of the fun.
- Parking tips – There are free and paid dog-friendly parking areas near most beaches and walks.
- Vet & pet services – St Ives has several local vets and pet shops if needed.
Our Latest Dog Friendly Cottages in Cornwall
Planning Your Trip
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a longer break, St Ives is full of experiences both you and your dog will love. From beaches to cafés, walks to cosy cottages, it’s one of Cornwall’s top dog-friendly destinations.
If you’re still deciding where to go, check out our other guides:
Cottages, Walks & Beaches in Cornwall
Cottages, Walks & Beaches in Padstow
Cottages, Walks & Beaches in Falmouth
Best Beaches, Walks & Places to Eat in Bude
Or, if St Ives is to be your next holiday destination, browse our full collection of dog friendly cottages in Cornwall by clicking the button below.
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