Exploring the Isle of Wight’s Coastal Beauty and Beaches: Know Your Rights and Boundaries for a Memorable and Safe Walking Experience.
Not all beaches on the Isle of Wight are dog-friendly all year round, so be sure to plan ahead to save worry and disappointment.
Some beaches have restrictions on dogs during certain times of the year, while others prohibit dogs altogether. It’s important to check the local rules and regulations before bringing your furry friend along. However, there are several beaches on the Isle of Wight that do allow dogs year-round, so you and your four-legged companion can still enjoy a day by the sea. There are also several areas that dogs must be kept on a lead at all times.
Winter Beaches
You can roam freely during the winter as dogs are allowed on all Island beaches during the winter months. However, to ensure everyone is able to enjoy the beaches and coast, there are restrictions in place (dog exclusion zones) between 1 May and 30 September.
Summer Beaches
The exclusion areas are listed below and maps are provided on the councils website – it is worth looking at the individual maps as they will show where you can explore with your dog.
The beaches that have dog exclusion zones during the summer season (1 May and 30 September) are as follows (Information taken from The Isle of Wight.Gov site, these are up to date as of April 1st 2023, but please do double check once you arrive as exlcusions can change:
- Colwell Beach – If you turn right at the end of the Colwell Chine Road, you are able to takle dogs onto the beach in this area. There is plenty of sand to roam on at lower tide.
- Cowes Beach – Anything to the West of Egypt Hill Slipway is dog friendly.
- East Cowes Beach – A relativley small area opposite the public tilets and paddling pool are excluded but the walks around the coast towards Norris castle are suitable – please check as the pathway has been closed, when the tide is up you may not be able to get around.
- Freshwater Bay – Head to East of the main slipway going down the middle of the pebbles, towards Watcombe bay. This isn’t an ideal walking spot, but if you have a well behaved dog they can join you for a bit of sunbathing!
- Gurnard Beach – Head to the West of the sailing club, this will take you past the exclusion zone.
- Sandown Beach – Head to Yaverland for dog walks, all along the promeade in Sandown is in the exclusion zone.
- Shanklin Beach – Again most of Shanklin beach is in the exclusion area. Walk up to the entrance/exit of the Chine, keep walking south and Dogs are allowed on the beach area. This is a popular spot for families with small children also as the sea is shallow and warm.
- Springvale Beach – Head towards Duver Road and look for the end of the exclusion zone before you get to Seaview beach.
- Ventnor Beach – Walk toward Steephill and dogs are allowed on leads.
- Ryde Beach. – Walk along to the East of Appley tower around to Puckpool, there is a small area of beach outside the exclusion zone
Head down to Alum Bay beach, the pathway is a lovley walk and there are no restrictions on Dogs on the beaches. East of Ryde pier is dog friendly and the beaches are very interesting.
If you look at each exclusion zone you will be able to plan your walk or beach picnic with much more ease, as you can still enjoy the beaches away from the busy crowds during the summer months.
Check our our free holiday and day trip planners – giving you more time to enjoy your holiday!
It is advisable to keep dogs on leads around the exclusion areas, espically walking along the promaneade to reach these areas. With beach crowds and holiday makers growing in numbers, keeping your dog on a lead is the best way to ensure its safety and happiness during the busy seasons.
If you fancy walking into the countryside and eploring the National Trust have a fantastic guide on: Dog-friendly places on the Isle of Wight
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