The Coastal Stay Guide to Pet-Friendly Bournemouth
At The Coastal Stay, we believe holidays should include every member of the family – including the four-legged ones. Whether you’re travelling with a playful pup or a relaxed house cat, you’ll find plenty to enjoy during your stay in Bournemouth.
Nothing beats an early morning walk along Bournemouth’s stunning coastline.
Alum Chine
Just a short stroll from Pelican House, Alum Chine is perfect for stretching everyone’s legs. During the summer months, dogs aren’t permitted on the main Blue Flag beach, but the dog-friendly section just west towards Branksome is open all year, making it ideal whatever the season. There’s even a handy dog wash to rinse sandy paws afterwards.
Branksome Chine
Continue west along the promenade and you’ll discover another wonderful stretch of quieter beach. It’s ideal for long walks with beautiful views across Poole Bay.
Hengistbury Head
If your pets love exploring, Hengistbury Head is a must-visit. With miles of coastal paths, heathland and beaches, it’s one of Dorset’s favourite walking destinations.
Southbourne Beach
For a quieter day by the sea, head east towards Southbourne where there are extensive year-round pet-friendly areas and plenty of space to roam.
Seasonal Beach Rules
Please remember Bournemouth has seasonal dog restrictions.
1 October – 30 April: Dogs are welcome on all beaches.
1 May – 30 September: Dogs are only allowed in designated year-round dog-friendly beach sections.
Promenades and cliff paths require dogs to remain on a lead throughout the year.
Beautiful Walks Beyond the Beach
Not every walk needs sand.
Some of our favourite local strolls include:
- Bournemouth Gardens
- Alum Chine Tropical Gardens
- Westbourne’s leafy Victorian streets
- Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve
Perfect for morning coffee walks or evening strolls before dinner.
Dog-Friendly Cafés… and a Treat for Cat Lovers Too
After all that exercise, you’ll both deserve a treat.
Bournemouth is home to some wonderful cafés that warmly welcome well-behaved dogs, making it easy to relax with a coffee or bite to eat after a walk along the beach. Some of our favourites include South Coast Coffee, Fika Bournemouth, Café Boscanova and Cosy Café.
If you’re a cat lover, don’t miss a visit to Pause Cat Café in Bournemouth town centre. This unique café gives you the chance to enjoy a coffee, cake or light lunch while spending time with a resident family of friendly rescue cats. It’s a wonderful experience for animal lovers and a perfect rainy-day activity during your stay.
Travelling with Your Cat
🐱 If you’re bringing your feline friend on holiday, here are a few tips to help them settle in:
- Bring their favourite blanket or bed so they have familiar scents.
- Keep their usual feeding routine where possible.
- Place the litter tray in a quiet corner of the apartment.
- Consider keeping cats indoors during your stay if they’re unfamiliar with the area.
- Pack their favourite toys, treats and scratching mat to help them feel at home.
Many cats settle surprisingly quickly once they have their familiar comforts around them.
Local Pet Supplies
Forgot Something?
Don’t worry if you’ve left your Pet’s treats at home.
Nearby pet shops include:
- Pets at Home Bournemouth
- Pets Corner
- Local veterinary surgeries (hopefully never needed!)
You’ll find food, toys, leads, towels and all those little essentials.
Just in Case…
Should your pet need veterinary care during your stay, there are several excellent veterinary practices nearby. We hope you never need them, but it’s always reassuring to know help is close at hand.
Staying at The Coastal Stay with Your Pet
To help everyone enjoy their stay, we kindly ask that:
- Pets are kept under control around the property.
- Please use your own pet towels after beach walks.
- Help us keep the apartments beautiful by keeping pets off beds and sofas where possible.
- Always clean up after your pets when out exploring.
- Most importantly… enjoy your holiday together!
After all, holidays are even better when every member of the family gets to come along.
