If your dog could plan the perfect holiday, we’re pretty sure it would involve a beach, a ball, and no lead in sight. Lucky for them (and you), the Norfolk coast is packed with glorious stretches of sand where four-legged family members are just as welcome as two-legged ones.

Here are five of our favourite dog-friendly beaches – perfect for off-lead zoomies, salty-air strolls, and a well-deserved pup nap after.

Holkham Beach

Location: Near Wells-next-the-Sea

Why we love it:
Miles of open sand, pine forests, and postcard-perfect dunes. At low tide, it feels like you’re walking to the edge of the world.

Dog-friendly details:

Dogs are allowed all year but must be on leads in some areas during nesting season (usually spring/summer). Still loads of space to roam freely.

Local tip: Park at Lady Anne’s Drive (£) and pack water – it’s a long old walk to the sea and back!

Sea Palling

Location: East of Norwich

Why we love it:
Clean, quiet, and protected by offshore reefs, Sea Palling is ideal for nervous dogs, families, and anyone avoiding the crowds.

Dog-friendly details:

Restrictions on the central part of the beach during summer (May–Sept), but plenty of space either side to let loose.

Local tip: There’s a fab little ice cream kiosk and a fish & chip shop by the car park. Paws off the chips though. 😉

Winterton-on-Sea

Location: Near Great Yarmouth

Why we love it:
Wild dunes, friendly locals, and seals bobbing in the surf –  this place is a hidden gem. Great for walks that last hours (or until your dog collapses dramatically in the sand).

Dog-friendly details:

No restrictions. Year-round off-lead frolics are go!

Local tip: The Fisherman’s Return pub is a short walk from the beach and welcomes muddy paws inside.

Covehithe

Location: South of Lowestoft

Why we love it:
A dramatic, somewhat “lost to time” beach with eroding cliffs and a secret vibe. Feels like your own private film set.

Dog-friendly details:

Fully dog-friendly and rarely busy.

Local tip: There’s no car park, loo, or café. Pack light and take your rubbish home –  it’s as raw as it gets.

Wells-next-the-Sea (East of the beach huts)

Location: Next to Holkham

Why we love it:
Instagram-famous colourful huts, soft sand, and endless room to run. The views go on forever.

Dog-friendly details:

Dog restrictions May–Sept near the main beach entrance, but head east (towards Holkham) for freedom.

Local tip: The Beach Café has a dog-wash station, snacks and drinks. 

 Planning Your Dog-Friendly Stay?

At East Coast Hideaways, most of our holiday cottages welcomes dogs with open arms (and sometimes their own bed, treats, and towel too). Whether you’re after a cozy cottage with a fenced garden or a beachside bolthole made for muddy paws – we’ve got you.

🐶 Browse our dog-friendly stays here