Whether you’re a local looking for your next coastal walk or visiting Lincolnshire on holiday with your four-legged companion, you’ll be pleased to know the county has some of the most dog friendly beaches in the UK.

From wide open dunes to quieter stretches of sand, Lincolnshire’s coastline offers brilliant options for dogs and their owners all year round.

In this guide, we cover every dog friendly beach in Lincolnshire, seasonal access rules, what to watch out for, and tips to make every visit a tail-wagging success.

Are Lincolnshire Beaches Dog Friendly?

Yes — but with some important seasonal rules to be aware of. Lincolnshire boasts miles of beautiful coastline, and many beaches welcome dogs all year round.

However, the East Lindsey District Council enforces Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) that restrict dogs from certain central beach areas at popular resorts between 1 May and 30 September.

The key beaches with seasonal dog restrictions include:

• Skegness (central beach area)
• Mablethorpe (central beach area)
• Sutton-on-Sea (central beach area)

Outside of these zones and outside of the summer season, dogs are generally very welcome.

Always check the latest East Lindsey District Council guidance before you visit to confirm current rules.

The Best Dog Friendly Beaches in Lincolnshire

1. Saltfleetby Theddlethorpe Dunes

One of the most loved dog friendly beaches in Lincolnshire, Saltfleetby Theddlethorpe Dunes is a vast and unspoilt stretch of sand and salt marsh located just north of Mablethorpe.

It’s a National Nature Reserve, making it a haven for wildlife and a wonderful off-the-beaten-track option for adventurous dogs.

The wide open space means your dog can run freely, explore the dunes, and enjoy plenty of sensory stimulation.

It’s highly rated by locals and nature lovers alike, and the lack of heavy commercial development keeps it peaceful even in summer.

Location

Off the A1031 coast road between Mablethorpe and Saltfleet. Nearest postcode LN11 7TS (use for sat nav — the reserve itself has no single postcode).

Parking

Several car parks are available at different entrances along the reserve, including the popular Rimac car park.

Natural England has introduced a voluntary parking fee payable by mobile phone. No overnight parking is permitted.

Dog policy

Dogs are welcome year-round on most of the beach and dune areas.

During the spring and early summer nesting season, certain areas are cordoned off to protect ground-nesting birds — follow signage and keep dogs on leads in marked sanctuary zones.

Facilities

No café or toilets on site, so come fully prepared with food, water, and a bowl for your dog. An easy-access trail with information boards runs through the Rimac section.

Dog waste bins are provided at the car parks.

The wide gravel car parks can accommodate larger vehicles, though the access ramp has a slight slope that longer motorhomes should approach with care.

2. Huttoft Beach (Moggs Eye)

Huttoft Beach, also known as Moggs Eye, is a quiet and rural beach surrounded by grassy dunes that offers plenty of space for long walks without heavy crowds.

This is one of the most consistently dog friendly spots on the Lincolnshire coast, and a firm favourite with locals who want to avoid the busier resorts.

One of its most popular features is the “car terrace” — a long car park that sits practically on the beach itself, giving direct sea views and eliminating any significant walk to the sand.

There’s no funfair, no arcade — just open sand, sea air, and space. It has even been picked out by the Guardian as one of the UK’s best wild beach walks.

Location

Between Sandilands and Anderby Creek, on the Lincolnshire coast near Alford. Nearest postcode LN13 0LH (Huttoft Car Terrace).

The beach can also be accessed from the separate Moggs Eye car park slightly to the south.

Parking

A large car terrace with space for approximately 150 cars sits right beside the beach. Parking charges apply from 15 April to 31 October (10:00–17:00), payable on site.

The car park is open 6am–10pm; no overnight parking. Blue badge holders are exempt from charges. Arrive early on summer weekends to be sure of a space.

Dog policy

Dogs are welcome year-round with no restrictions. Dog waste bins are provided in the car parks.

Facilities

Public toilets are available in the car park. A picnic area with benches is provided. There is no lifeguard service, so take care if your dog enters the water.

The beach is popular with swimmers, surfers, sea anglers, and birdwatchers, offering plenty of interest for curious dogs too.

3. Chapel St Leonards Beach

Chapel St Leonards is a friendly village resort that welcomes dogs on both its north and south beach sections all year round.

It’s a brilliant middle ground — enough amenities to make it a comfortable day out, without the crowds of Skegness or Mablethorpe.

The beach is wide, sandy, and stretches for miles in both directions, giving dogs plenty of room.

Heading north along the shoreline, a six-mile walk towards Skegness is possible, and to the north you’ll reach Chapel Point and the striking North Sea Observatory.

The village itself has a laid-back atmosphere, and several local businesses are dog friendly too.

Location

On the Lincolnshire coast between Ingoldmells and Anderby Creek. Chapel St Leonards is accessed off the A52. Sat nav: PE24 5UB for the main village centre.

Parking

Several pay-and-display car parks are available.

The largest, Well Vale car park (suitable for motorhomes and coaches), is on Well Vale Drive off Sea Road and gives easy pedestrian access to the beach.

A second pay-and-display car park sits behind the North Sea Observatory, with a long ramp down to a quieter stretch of beach.

A smaller car park is located in the town centre near the public toilets.

Dog policy

Dogs are banned on the central beach section — 200 metres either side of the main beach access point — from 1 May to 30 September.

The rest of the beach is open to dogs all year round. Dogs are also permitted on the promenade.

A £100 fine applies for breaching the PSPO.

Facilities

Public toilets are available near the main car park. The village centre has cafés, fish and chip shops, a pub, and small shops within a short walk of the beach.

The North Sea Observatory has a café with sea views. There are no lifeguards.

Not only that, but it also has a dog-friendly pub, called Admiral Benbow Beach Bar, that welcomes dogs and owners with open arms.

They also have their very own doggy menu, so it’s a great place to stop for a little snack.

4. Anderby Creek Beach

Anderby Creek is one of Lincolnshire’s hidden gems — a tranquil, wild, and clean beach that’s well known for being exceptionally dog friendly.

The quieter setting means fewer conflicts with other beach users, and the miles of open sand make it ideal for letting dogs run freely.

It’s also home to the world’s first purpose-built cloud observation platform, the “Cloud Bar” — a fun extra for any visit.

The village itself is tiny, keeping visitor numbers lower than the main resorts.

If you’re looking for somewhere to genuinely let your dog off the lead and enjoy the sea, Anderby Creek is hard to beat.

Location

Off the B1449 near Hogsthorpe, roughly midway between Mablethorpe and Skegness. Address: Sandy Lane, Anderby Creek, PE24 5XW.

The approach is via winding country lanes — sat nav is strongly recommended.

Parking

A small free car park is located right beside the beach. It can fill up on busy summer days, so arriving early is advisable.

Poo bins are provided in the car park.

Dog policy

Dogs are welcome year-round. Seasonal restrictions apply to a small section: dogs are not permitted within 270 metres south of the main beach pullover between 1 May and 30 September.

The remainder of the beach — in both directions — remains open to dogs all year. Clear signage is in place on site.

Facilities

Public toilets are available in the car park.

The Anderby Beach Café (fully dog friendly inside and out, with a beer garden) serves food, drinks, and homemade ice cream — note it is reportedly closed on Tuesdays.

A small shop and additional pub are located in the village nearby. There is a fresh water tap with a dog bowl available at the car park.

5. Sandilands

Sandilands is a National Trust-managed site where a former golf course is being transformed into a rich coastal nature reserve, with wide sandy beach and the area’s iconic beach huts.

It’s excellent for ball games and energetic dogs who love to chase and run.

The managed environment means the beach is well kept, and the open layout gives both dogs and owners plenty of room.

Located just south of Sutton-on-Sea, it’s a convenient stop if you’re exploring the mid-Lincolnshire coast, and the National Trust’s investment in accessibility is evident in the well-maintained paths and facilities.

Location

Roman Bank, Sandilands, near Sutton-on-Sea, LN12 2RJ (use LN12 2SE for sat nav to the car park entrance). Brown signs from the A52 direct you to the site.

The nearest railway station is Skegness (11 miles); buses run from Skegness and Mablethorpe Monday to Saturday (Stagecoach no. 59, stop on Sea Lane, approximately 1 mile from the reserve).

Parking

A main car park with a firm gravel surface and additional grass overflow parking is available.

Two hours of parking is free; all-day parking costs £2. National Trust members park free all day (scan membership card at the machine).

Disabled badge holders are exempt from charges, with two designated accessible spaces near the toilet block. No overnight parking.

Dog policy

All dogs are welcome on short leads at all times — this is a National Trust requirement to protect ground-nesting birds and other wildlife.

Three dedicated dog waste bins are on site (at the north and south entrances, and just south of Boy Grift Drain). Water bowls are provided near the site office.

Dogs are rated two paws (out of five) by the National Trust for Sandilands, indicating a good visit for dogs with the lead requirement in mind.

Facilities

Toilets including an accessible toilet and a Changing Places facility are available in the car park, open year-round.

A small National Trust café operates on site (seasonal hours — not always open). Beach huts line the seafront. Bucket and spade loan is available from a dedicated beach hut on site.

Tramper accessible buggies are planned for the site. The terrain is mostly flat with some uneven ground and rabbit holes.

6. Ingoldmells Beach (South Section)

While much of Ingoldmells is focused on its famous amusements, Lincolnshire holiday parks, and the Fantasy Island theme park, the south beach section welcomes dogs all year round.

Many would claim it is the best beach to visit, and for good reason! It holds Blue Flag status and is popular for swimming as well as dog walking.

The wide sandy beach gives dogs plenty of freedom, and the resort amenities make it a convenient full-day option if you’re staying in the area.

If you’re planning a caravan holiday in Ingoldmells, the beach is perfectly positioned close to attractions, eateries, and family entertainment.

Location

Ingoldmells is just north of Skegness on the A52. Sea Lane is the main access road to the seafront.

The dog-friendly south beach section is away from the main resort attractions.

Parking

A large multi-storey car park is located on Sea Lane, approximately 50 metres from the main beach entrance. Additional parking is available in the resort area.

Dog policy

Dogs are permitted on the south section of the beach all year round without restrictions — one of the few resort beaches in Lincolnshire to offer this.

Dogs should be kept away from the main central resort beach area, where restrictions may apply. Always check local signage on arrival.

Facilities

As a working resort, Ingoldmells has an excellent range of amenities nearby — shops, pubs, places to eat, a bowling alley, and public toilets are all accessible from Sea Lane.

The Fantasy Island theme park is a short distance away for families wanting to combine a beach visit with further entertainment.

7. Cleethorpes Beach

Cleethorpes is one of the most popular seaside destinations in the East Midlands and one of the most searched beaches in Lincolnshire.

It offers traditional seaside atmosphere with good amenities, a well-maintained promenade, and year-round dog access on certain sections.

The beach is wide and flat, with views across the Humber Estuary, and the terrain suits dogs of all ages and fitness levels.

For the most dog-friendly experience, head south towards Humberston Fitties, where dogs are welcome all year and the atmosphere becomes quieter and more natural.

Location

Cleethorpes is on the east Lincolnshire coast, closely connected to Grimsby. Easily accessible via the A180.

The seafront runs along the promenade and is well signposted. The nearest railway station is Cleethorpes station, directly across from the seafront.

Parking

Multiple pay-and-display car parks are available along the seafront, with spaces close to the beach. The resort is well served for parking year-round.

Dog policy

Seasonal restrictions apply under a North East Lincolnshire Council PSPO.

From Good Friday to 30 September, dogs are banned from the stretch of beach between the Wonderland Rock Groyne (DN35 8SJ) and Cleethorpes Leisure Centre.

The section between Cleethorpes Leisure Centre and Humberston Fitties is open to dogs all year round. Outside the restricted season, dogs can access the full beach.

Fines of £100 apply for breaching the PSPO. Check signage carefully on arrival, particularly around Easter when restrictions start earlier than on other Lincolnshire beaches.

Facilities

As a large resort, Cleethorpes has extensive amenities: cafés, restaurants, fish and chip shops, amusement arcades, a paddling pool, crazy golf, deck chair hire, pedalos, toilets, and disabled access are all available along the seafront.

The promenade is a reliable walking route when the tide is in.

Cleethorpes Country Park nearby features a boating lake with a gated dog swimming area.

8. Trusthorpe Beach

A quieter alternative to the larger resorts, Trusthorpe sits between Mablethorpe and Sutton-on-Sea and is a good option for a more relaxed dog walk away from the crowds.

The beach is open, sandy, and traditional in feel, with soft sand that gives walkers and dogs a good workout.

Location

Trusthorpe sits on the coast south of Mablethorpe, off the A52.

The beach is accessed via a short walk from the village. Mablethorpe and Sutton-on-Sea are both a short drive away for additional amenities.

Parking

Roadside parking is available near the beach access points in the village.

The Huttoft Car Terrace (just along the coast to the south) is also within easy reach and provides a more formal parking option with facilities.

Dog policy

Dogs are welcome year-round outside of the main seasonal restriction zones that apply to central Mablethorpe and Sutton-on-Sea.

Check local signage on arrival, as the beach connects to both resorts. The Trusthorpe beach section itself is generally unrestricted.

Facilities

Trusthorpe village has very limited facilities — there are no public toilets or cafés directly at the beach, so come prepared.

The Seacroft Bar in the village serves food and is a convenient option nearby. For fuller amenities, Mablethorpe and Sutton-on-Sea are both close at hand.

Dog Friendly Beaches in Lincolnshire: Quick Reference

Seasonal Dog Restrictions: What You Need to Know

Between 1 May and 30 September, dogs are banned from designated central beach zones at Skegness, Mablethorpe, and Sutton-on-Sea under Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs).

These restrictions are in place to keep busy resort areas safe during peak visitor season.

Fines can be issued for non-compliance, so it’s important to look out for signage when visiting these resorts in summer.

Outside of these zones and outside of the summer period, these resorts also offer dog-friendly access — so they’re still worth visiting with your dog in autumn, winter, and spring.

For the most up-to-date maps and zone information, visit the East Lindsey District Council website.

Tips for Visiting Dog Friendly Beaches in Lincolnshire

Always carry poo bags — it’s a legal requirement and basic courtesy. Many Lincolnshire beaches have dog waste bins, but come prepared.

Bring fresh water — seawater is not safe for dogs to drink in large quantities. Pack a bottle and a travel bowl for long visits.

Watch out for debris — some of Lincolnshire’s more natural beaches can have debris washed up after storms. Keep an eye out for sharp objects, jellyfish, or anything unusual.

Check the tide times — some beach areas narrow considerably at high tide, which can affect where you can walk and whether your dog has room to run. Have a look at a tides time checker before going out.

Keep dogs away from nesting birds — around Saltfleetby Theddlethorpe and other nature reserves, certain areas may be cordoned off during nesting season (typically spring). Follow signs and keep dogs on leads in marked zones.

What Dog Owners Ask Before Visiting Lincolnshire’s Beaches

Where to go in Lincolnshire with a dog?

Lincolnshire is excellent for dog owners.

Beyond the beaches, you can explore the Lincolnshire Wolds (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), the Viking Way long-distance walking route, and many dog-friendly country pubs and cafés across the county.

There are plenty of things to do nearby with your furry friend!

Are dogs allowed on Theddlethorpe beach?

Yes — Saltfleetby Theddlethorpe Dunes welcomes dogs year-round on most of the beach.

As it’s a National Nature Reserve, some areas may have temporary access restrictions during bird nesting season. Always follow any signage in place.

Which beach is best for dogs in Lincolnshire?

Saltfleetby Theddlethorpe Dunes and Anderby Creek are widely considered the best dog-friendly beaches in Lincolnshire thanks to their open space, year-round access, and quieter atmosphere.

Huttoft Beach is also a favourite for its easy access and uncrowded setting.

What is the prettiest seaside town in Lincolnshire?

Many visitors consider Cleethorpes and Alford to be among the most attractive, but for sheer natural beauty, the stretch of coastline around Saltfleetby Theddlethorpe and Anderby Creek is hard to beat.

Dog Friendly Pubs Near Lincolnshire’s Beaches

After a long walk on the beach, there’s nothing better than finding a great pub that welcomes dogs too.

If you’re visiting the Ingoldmells area, we’ve put together a handy guide to help you find the perfect spot to relax with your dog after a day on the sand.

Our pick of the very best Dog-Friendly Pubs in Ingoldmells.

Ready to Explore Lincolnshire With Your Dog?

Lincolnshire is packed with brilliant beaches for dogs and their owners.

From peaceful dune walks to wide open sandy beaches, there’s always somewhere new to explore together.

And if you’re planning a seaside escape with your four-legged friend, Kingfisher Caravan Park’s pet-friendly holidays are perfectly placed for discovering the Lincolnshire coast.

Looking for something more permanent?

As a dog friendly holiday park, we also offer a range of static caravans for sale in Ingoldmells (Lincolnshire) — giving you your own base by the seaside whenever adventure calls.