About
Hunstanton sits on Norfolk’s west coast, offering rare sunset views over the sea, unusual for an east-coast location. Henry Le Strange planned Hunstanton as a Victorian seaside resort in the 19th century. Its beautiful cliffs, sandy beach, and charming promenade have made it a popular destination for over a century.
Hunstanton has two beaches, each offering something different.
Main Beach (Hunstanton Beach)
This is a traditional sandy beach with pebbles closer to the promenade. It’s great for families and offers a range of traditional seaside activities. The beach is wide and sandy during low tide, providing plenty of space.
The beach is perfect for watersports and is also a popular spot for long seaside walks. The iconic striped red-and-white chalk cliffs are a key feature and ideal for dog walks.
Old Hunstanton Beach
Just north of the main beach, Old Hunstanton Beach is a quieter, more natural stretch of sand backed by dunes and beach huts. It’s much quieter and less commercialised, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.
The beach is ideal for walking and exploring the dunes. It’s also an excellent spot for birdwatching and admiring the local wildlife.
Both beaches offer beautiful views, especially at sunset, and are easily accessible from the town centre. Whether you’re after a fun family day out or a quiet stroll with your dog, Hunstanton’s beaches cater to everyone.
Dog Access and Rules
Seasonal ban 1 April–31 October from the power boat ramp to the north end of the promenade. Outside that stretch (and Old Hunstanton), dogs are welcome all year.
From 1 April to 31 October inclusive, dogs are banned on the main Hunstanton beach between the power boat ramp and the northern end of the promenade. On that same stretch of promenade, dogs must be kept on a lead during those dates.
Outside the signed ban zone, and all along Old Hunstanton Beach to the north (dunes and quieter sand), dogs are welcome year-round. From 1 November to 31 March, the whole main beach is open to dogs again.
Nearby dog-friendly options: Heacham Beach and Brancaster Beach (check each listing for current rules).
Browse other dog-friendly beaches near King's Lynn or ALL UK dog-friendly beaches on our map, including seasonal rules and year-round spots.
Access and Facilities
Hunstanton is easy to access, whether you’re travelling by car or public transport. Hunstanton is about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Norwich and just over 2 hours from Cambridge. Several car parks are near the main beach, including the South Promenade car park, which offers easy access to the sand. The area around Old Hunstanton also offers parking, with a quicker route to the more dog-friendly sections.
If you’re travelling by bus, regular services run from King’s Lynn, which is well-connected by rail. The buses stop in Hunstanton town centre, a short walk from the beach.
