In an emerging trend, increasing numbers of dog owners are opting for pet-friendly breaks, ensuring their cherished canine companions can share in the holiday fun.

Coastal getaways remain a favourite among British holidaymakers and their dogs, with figures from dog-friendly holiday specialists Canine Cottages showing 80% of dog owners brought their pets along on holiday in 2025.

The statistics also revealed that 62% of their 2024 bookings consisted of seaside retreats.

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Whilst the sunny summer months might appear to be the perfect opportunity for a pet-friendly coastal adventure, this is also when holiday prices peak. Millions of Brits look to capitalise on the fine weather and warm temperatures during this period.

However, the off-peak season or "secret season" could prove the most suitable and budget-friendly time to travel with your four-legged friends, according to dog-travel specialists, as quieter destinations and relaxed restrictions for dogs are crucial elements in enhancing holidays for both pets and their humans.

Embarking on a seaside break with your dog during the off-peak months - November to April - guarantees quieter locations and lifted restrictions, particularly on beaches, which consequently provides greater freedom for dogs and their owners to fully embrace and enjoy their coastal escape.

Canine Cottages' Digital PR Manager Sarah Pring shares: "For pet owners, the best time to take a seaside break is actually at the start of the year, around January to March, once beach restrictions have been lifted.

"The quieter beaches mean dogs can play without the stress of a busy environment, which can be distressing for reactive and anxious pets. The benefits extend to pet owners, with seaside properties being cheaper to rent in the winter months."

Perfect destination for your next pooch-friendly getaway

A coastal retreat in England is being championed as the ultimate dog-friendly haven, particularly during quieter seasons.

The North Cornwall seaside town of Newquay consistently ranks amongst Britain's most beautiful locations and is often dubbed the 'nation's favourite seaside holiday', reports Cornwall Live.

Newquay offers a wealth of family entertainment, with multiple beaches in this lively coastal resort accommodating four-legged guests.

The shores are noticeably more peaceful at this time of year, ideal for lengthy walks, unrestricted play, and a well-deserved break without worrying about your beloved pets disappearing into throngs of people.

Outside the peak summer season, restrictions on dogs at popular beaches like Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay - half a mile and two miles from Newquay town centre respectively - are relaxed, before returning to the usual 10am to 6pm ban typically in place from May to September when tourists flock to the area.

During these busier months, dogs must be kept on leads.

Throughout the year, dog-friendly beaches in Newquay include Crantock Beach, Little Fistral, Harbour Beach, Towan Beach, Lusty Glaze, and Whipsiderry Beach.

Pet owners can take a leisurely walk along the River Gannel while their four-legged companions paddle in the shallow waters of the tidal estuary.

The town offers plenty of scenic walks, as well as dog-welcoming pubs, bars and eateries, so your furry family members can join you for meals rather than being left at home.

Notable pet-friendly venues include the Fistral Boardmasters Beach Bar and The Fistral Stable, both conveniently located directly on Fistral Beach.

Cornwall has the longest coastline in the UK, surrounded by sea on three sides, and is rich in Arthurian legend and Celtic folklore, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and lovers of ancient mythology.

Sarah explains: "Arthurian legend is one of the fascinating parts of British folklore, and with so many of the locations in the tales being outdoors, there's no shortage of dog-friendly walks that allow dog owners to immerse themselves in the legends."