October is a wonderful time to enjoy Cornwall’s coastline with your dog. As the busy summer season comes to an end, many beaches lift their seasonal dog restrictions, giving four-legged visitors more freedom to explore the sand throughout the day.
Several popular beaches around St Ives Bay restrict dogs between 10am and 6pm from 15 May until 30 September. From 1 October, dogs can once again enjoy these beaches during the daytime, although owners should always check local signs before heading onto the sand.
Porthmeor Beach
Overlooked by Tate St Ives, Porthmeor is one of the town’s best-known beaches. From October, it becomes a fantastic place for a seaside dog walk, with a broad stretch of sand and views across the Atlantic.
After exploring the beach, you can continue along the coast or walk into St Ives to enjoy its shops, galleries and dog-friendly cafés.
Porthminster Beach
Located close to St Ives railway station, Porthminster offers golden sand and beautiful views across the bay. Its seasonal daytime dog restriction ends on 30 September, making October an excellent time for a quieter walk beside the water.
The scenic train journey from St Erth is also a convenient way to reach the beach without worrying about parking in the centre of St Ives.
Carbis Bay Beach
Carbis Bay is sheltered and often calmer than some of the more exposed beaches around West Cornwall. Dogs are restricted during the daytime until 30 September but can return throughout the day from October.
You can also follow sections of the South West Coast Path towards St Ives or Lelant, enjoying spectacular coastal views along the way.
Hayle Towans and Godrevy
The extensive sands between Hayle Towans and Godrevy provide plenty of room for energetic dogs. The main seasonal restriction here runs during July and August, so dogs can already return during daytime hours from September onwards.
Please remember that some environmentally sensitive locations have separate rules. Dogs are prohibited throughout the year at Hayle Estuary, Carnsew Pool and Copperhouse Pool to help protect important wildlife and bird habitats.
Enjoy a Dog-Friendly Autumn Escape
October brings quieter beaches, cooler walking conditions and plenty of opportunities to explore Cornwall with your dog. Please keep dogs under control, respect wildlife, clean up after them and follow all signs displayed at beach entrances.
Our pet-friendly self-catering accommodation near St Ives provides the perfect base for discovering Hayle, Godrevy and the beautiful West Cornwall coastline.