Polly Joke Beach
a firm favourite with dog loving locals
Crantock, West Pentire, Newquay TR8 5SE
Polly Joke Beach is a beautiful dog friendly cove located just beyond the West Pentire Headland in between Crantock and Holywell bays on the north coast of Cornwall. Far enough away from Newquay’s main beaches to attract fewer visitors and with an abundance of wildlife, wildflowers, caves and rock pools to explore, it’s a firm favourite with dog-loving locals.
- By The Beach
- Children Welcome
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
Good to know
Overview
A truly picture postcard piece of Cornish coastline, amble along the coastal path and spot the seals, swifts and skylarks on the beach or surrounding headlands. Dogs should be kept under close control when walking along the cliff sections of the path as there have been a few casualties over the years.
Look out for cows in the fields on the Crantock side of the valley and you’ll spot sheep on the Hollywell side. Keep your dog on the lead if they have a tendency to bolt.
If you’re a beach lover and want to make a full day of it, there are lots shady spots to set up camp. Dogs will love playing amongst the waves and there’s plenty of room to run and fetch before sniffing along the coastal path and admiring the beautiful wildflower displays.
Go in spring for meadows of poppies and corn marigolds but stay off the fields so these flowers can continue with their cycle and support the local ecosystem.
For The Dogs
Bring leads, poop bags and water … and a towel if your pup is partial to a paddle.
Opening Hours
You can access the cove all year round but do check the tide times and conditions before you set off.
Parking
There’s paid parking at West Pentire and a National Trust car park in the valley. Both are about a 5 – 10 minute walk from the beach. The paid car park offers great views, but the NT one is a lovely walk along the stream that runs through the valley.
The Area
If you and your dog would prefer a longer hike, try walking all the way from Newquay – just make sure the tide is out at The Gannel Estuary before you start. Or perhaps walk over to Holywell or even onto Perranporth if you want to explore a little more of this beautiful coastline. Wheal Coates, a former tin mine, is one of Cornwall’s most iconic sites located on the on the cliff tops between Porthtowan and St Agnes. To get there, park at St Agnes Head and walk along the coast path (it’s signposted and easy to follow). Follow the path to the well-maintained mine ruins for a stunning dog friendly walk.
For more walks, pubs and places to stay, see our guide to dog friendly Cornwall.
