Torbay, the urban coast of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, has a different character from the rural South Hams or North Devon. Beaches here are busier and more built-up, and several restrict dogs over the summer. But there are still excellent dog-friendly options, and the winter season is particularly rewarding. We have checked the current access for each beach below.
Torbay Council operates Public Spaces Protection Orders across the bay's beaches. Seasonal restrictions generally run across the summer, broadly from spring to early autumn, but the rules are not uniform: some beaches are dog-friendly all year, some are restricted seasonally, and on some larger beaches one section stays open while another is restricted. For the exact dates and times, always check the individual beach page, or see our summer dog ban dates guide. To understand what the legal terms mean, read our PSPO rules explainer.
A small shingle beach north of Torquay, reached down a steep road or by the historic cliff railway. A sheltered, characterful spot, and a reliable choice for dog owners through the year.
Dogs welcome all yearA sandy bay near Brixham, away from the busier central resort beaches. Brixham generally has a more relaxed, fishing-town feel, and this is one of the bay's better year-round dog beaches.
Dogs welcome all yearA sheltered beach in a wooded bay just east of Torquay town centre. The dog rules are split by zone: dogs are welcome all year on the north-eastern part, while the south-western part, between the notices on the foreshore, has a seasonal ban from 1 May to 30 September.
Split rules: north-east all year, south-west seasonal · check the signs on the beachA wide, sheltered bay south of Paignton with good parking and a cafe. A seasonal dog ban applies in the summer, but outside the peak season it is an excellent dog beach.
Seasonal dog ban · check current dates on the beach page
Devon Dog Beaches