Dog Friendly Beaches in Bournemouth & Scenic Walks

Bournemouth has some of the best dog friendly beaches for visitors and locals alike, coupled with stunning coastal paths, dog-friendly beaches, and scenic woodland trails, it’s a fantastic destination for dog owners looking for the perfect walk. Whether your four-legged friend loves sandy beaches or leafy parks, there are plenty of routes to explore right on Hotel Collingwood’s doorstep.

At Hotel Collingwood, we welcome dogs, making it easy for you to enjoy a relaxing seaside escape with your furry companion. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best dog walks near Bournemouth, including dog-friendly beaches, scenic coastal strolls, and open green spaces where your pup can run free. Ready to explore? Let’s go.

Best dog-friendly beaches in Bournemouth

Bournemouth’s coastline offers some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Dorset, perfect for seaside strolls with your furry friend. While some beaches have seasonal restrictions, there are plenty of areas where dogs are welcome all year round. Here are some of our favourite spots to explore:

Alum Chine Beach

Dog-friendly all year round
One of Bournemouth’s quieter beaches, Alum Chine offers a scenic stretch of sand with plenty of space for dogs to run. Tropical gardens surround the beach, and a café is nearby, making it an excellent stop for you and your dog.

Hengistbury Head

Dog-friendly all year round
If you're looking for a mix of beach and nature, Hengistbury Head is a must-visit. This stunning coastal spot features sandy beaches, grassy headlands, and breathtaking sea views. Dogs can enjoy off-lead walks along the beach and nature trails, but be mindful of wildlife conservation areas.

Durley Chine Beach

Dog-friendly all year round in designated areas
Located west of Bournemouth Pier, Durley Chine Beach is another excellent option for dog walkers. Specific dog-friendly zones allow pets to enjoy the sand and sea without restrictions. The promenade walk leading to this beach is also popular with dog owners.

Seasonal beach rules in Bournemouth

While many beaches allow dogs all year, Bournemouth’s main beaches have restrictions from May to September. During this period, dogs must stick to designated areas or be on leads along the promenade. Always check local signage to find the best dog-friendly spots.

Tips for visiting dog-friendly beaches in Bournemouth

Exploring dog-friendly beaches in Bournemouth is a great way to enjoy the coast with your four-legged friend, but it’s important to know the local rules and best practices to make the most of your visit.

1. Check seasonal beach rules

While many Bournemouth beaches allow dogs all year round, some have seasonal restrictions from May to September. Dogs are usually only permitted in designated areas during peak months, so check signage before heading onto the sand.

2. Bring fresh water & shade

Bournemouth’s beaches are perfect for long walks and playtime, but dogs can quickly overheat on warm days. Bring fresh water and a portable bowl, and take breaks in shaded areas when needed. If you’re visiting during peak summer, early morning or late evening walks are best for avoiding crowds and keeping your dog cool.

3. Watch for tides & currents

If your dog enjoys splashing in the sea, always check tide times and sea conditions before heading out. Strong currents can be dangerous, so keep an eye on your pup and stick to shallow waters if they’re swimming.

4. Clean up after your dog

All dog-friendly beaches and parks require owners to clean up after their pets. Waste bins are available along the promenade and in most parks, always carry dog waste bags to keep the area clean for everyone.

5. Visit dog-friendly cafés & restaurants

After a long walk, why not stop for a bite to eat? Bournemouth has several dog-friendly cafés and pubs where you can relax with your pup. A few great options near the beach include:

• Hotel Collingwood (Bournemouth) - Dogs can relax in reception or the Tea Lounge and dine with you in the Bubble Lounge or Secret Garden.  Why not indulge your pooch with a fresh dish from our ‘Doggy Bites’ menu.
• Urban Reef (Boscombe) – Beachfront café with outdoor seating.‍
• The Cliff House (Southbourne) – Dog-friendly pub with a spacious beer garden.‍
• The Noisy Lobster (Avon Beach) – Seaside dining with dog-friendly areas.
• Circo Lounge (Westbourne) is part of the Lounges group, where dogs are welcome inside and outside.
• Brown Dog Coffee (Southbourne) – A hidden gem serving organic coffee and all-day breakfasts, featuring a 'Doggy Wall of Fame' for visiting pups.

Coastal walks for dogs in Bournemouth

Bournemouth has plenty of dog-friendly coastal walks if your dog loves exploring seaside paths and enjoying fresh sea air. These routes offer a mix of sandy stretches, clifftop views, and scenic promenades, perfect for a stroll or a more energetic walk.

Boscombe Pier to Bournemouth Pier

Approx. 1.2 miles | Flat, easy walk
For a relaxed seafront walk, start at Boscombe Pier and follow the promenade toward Bournemouth Pier. This scenic route offers stunning sea views, plenty of space for dogs, and a choice of dog-friendly cafés.

Southbourne Beach to Hengistbury Head

Approx. 3 miles | Coastal & nature walk
For a slightly longer, more scenic walk, head east towards Hengistbury Head. This route takes you along Southbourne Beach, where dogs can enjoy the sand, before reaching the Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve. It’s a great mix of coastal scenery and open green spaces, perfect for an adventure with your pup.

Sandbanks Beach & Poole Harbour

Varied distances | Sandy beach & harborside paths
Sandbanks Beach, just a short drive from Bournemouth, is one of the most famous beaches in Dorset. While some areas have seasonal restrictions, dog-friendly sections are available all year round. For a longer walk, continue along the promenade towards Poole Harbour, where you’ll find quieter spots for dogs to roam.

Woodland & park walks in Bournemouth

If you’re looking for a change of scenery from the beach, Bournemouth has several dog-friendly parks and nature reserves perfect for a relaxed stroll or a more extended woodland adventure. Here are some great spots where your dog can enjoy open green spaces, shaded trails, and plenty of room to explore.

Meyrick Park

Central Bournemouth | Open green space & wooded trails
Located just a short walk from the town center, Meyrick Park offers spacious fields and woodland paths, making it an excellent spot for off-lead exercise. The park is popular with dog walkers and has plenty of benches along the route if you want to take a break.

Stour Valley Nature Reserve

Riverside walk | Approx. 4 miles
For a peaceful, nature-filled walk, head to Stour Valley Nature Reserve. The reserve follows the River Stour through beautiful countryside. The flat paths make it ideal for all fitness levels, and there are plenty of areas for dogs to explore off-lead.

Queens Park

Spacious parkland with walking trails
Queens Park is another fantastic option for dog walkers. It offers large grassy areas and shaded woodland paths. It’s a quieter alternative to Bournemouth’s beaches, giving your dog plenty of space to run and explore in a relaxing environment.

Stay at Hotel Collingwood: A dog-friendly Bournemouth hotel

After exploring Bournemouth’s dog-friendly beaches, scenic walks, and local cafés, you and your furry companion need the perfect place to relax. At Hotel Collingwood, we offer a welcoming stay for you and your dog, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free visit.

Why stay at Hotel Collingwood? 

• Dog-friendly rooms – Spacious, comfortable, and designed with pet owners in mind.
• Close to the beach – Just a short stroll from Bournemouth’s coastline and dog-friendly areas.
• On-site dining – Enjoy a meal from our thoughtfully designed menu in one of our dog-friendly dining areas.
• Warm hospitality – Our team loves welcoming dogs and will ensure you have everything you need.

Whether planning a weekend getaway or a more extended seaside break, Hotel Collingwood is the perfect base for exploring Bournemouth’s best dog walks.

Book your dog-friendly stay today

Don’t leave your four-legged friend behind. Stay at Hotel Collingwood and enjoy a relaxing coastal escape with your dog.

Book now and start planning your dog-friendly adventure in Bournemouth.