A woman and her dog sitting on the relaxation areas of the Calais LA Plage seafront.

Dog-friendly: between beaches, nature and heritage

Going on vacation with your dog is possible, and even encouraged! Throughout the year, the destination makes a point of welcoming visitors accompanied by their pets. From the coastline to shaded parks, urban walks and friendly terraces, the region offers multiple opportunities to share moments of togetherness in a safe, natural, and accessible setting.

An accessible coastline for shared moments

Calais XXL is, first and foremost, a generous coastline, ideal for long walks and moments of freedom. Several beaches in the area allow dogs, under certain conditions, to allow everyone to enjoy the sand and sea air.

Dog and his owner in the water at the foot of Cap Blanc Nez, Sangatte beach.

Where to walk on the beach around Calais with your dog?

In Calais, Dogs are welcome on the beach early in the morning or in the evening during the summer period.
On the Blériot-Sangatte side, a demarcated area allows walks with your companion.
The beach of Hemmes de Marck remains accessible all year round, while the d'Escales applies summer restrictions.
This diversity of access allows for varied experiences while respecting local rules of tranquility and cleanliness.

Focus

Rules

Taking your pet to the beaches of Calais and the surrounding area

Calais Beach: Until September 15, dogs are allowed on the sand before 9:00 a.m. and after 19:00 p.m.
Blériot-Sangatte Beach: Until September 30, walks are only permitted between the Semaphore and the VVF.
Hemmes de Marck Beach: Dogs are allowed all year round.
Escalles Beach: Until September 15, dogs are not allowed on the sand.

Dog hygiene awareness sign on the Calais seafront with the pier in the background.

Shaded or cool spaces in the city

When temperatures rise, parks and tree-lined walks become popular havens for our four-legged friends. Calais offers several places ideal for peaceful walks, where owners and dogs can relax in the shade or in the cooler coastal air.

Le Richelieu Park and Saint Pierre Park are located in the heart of the city. Perfect for a break in the shade, these two large green spaces are ideal for strolling in the cool of the city, away from the hustle and bustle. Shaded paths, lawns, and benches... your dogs will enjoy them as much as you do!

In the city, we also find Vauban Square which leads to the Citadel. Located on the Jacques Vendroux esplanade in a residential area, it offers a pleasant stroll near the canal surrounding the fortress, and leads to the Stade du Souvenir.

The promenade of the maritime district, between Courgain and Fort Risban, offers a route that is both historic and refreshing, perfect for a leisurely stroll along the seaside.

The dikes of Calais and Sangatte offer an open panorama of the sea. Late in the day or early in the morning, these long walks along the seafront are a great opportunity to breathe deeply. A view of the horizon and the salty air: the perfect combination for a breath of fresh air.

A woman walking her dog in Parc Saint-Pierre with Calais town hall in the background.

A city to be discovered on all fours

Calais city center is also an invitation to stroll. Thanks to its open architecture and numerous points of interest within walking distance, He happily goes for walks with his dog. The belfry, the town hall, the Cité de la dentelle, and the harbor basins create a pleasant and dynamic cultural journey. Along the way, visitors can enjoy numerous welcoming terraces, particularly on the Place d'Armes, around the theater, or in the Courgain district. Here, the restaurateurs know how to welcome you, even when it comes to your furry friends.

A couple sitting at a table on a terrace in Calais with their dog.

A woman walking her dog along the Perré Risban in Calais. In the background: the Courgain Maritime district.

Or in communion with nature

Walks along the water

The Coulogne Canal is frequently cited among the popular places for walking. It offers a particularly peaceful setting, especially at certain times of the year when the vegetation and light enhance its appeal. The towpath is regularly used by cyclists, making it an environment interesting for getting young dogs used to the presence of bicycles. Please note, however, that direct access to the site may require some planning, as parking options in the immediate vicinity are limited.

Marck is the perfect place to find the beach where your dog can enjoy the water too! At Plage de la Huchette, the sand is accessible to dogs all year round!

a family on the Coulogne cycle route along the Calais-Saint-Omer canal.

Or on the relief of Cap Blanc-Nez

Finally, walking your dog on the heights of Cap Blanc-Nez means enjoying a breath of fresh air amidst open and unspoiled landscapes. The trails offer superb views of the sea, cliffs, and surrounding countryside. Along the way, you alternate between meadows, moors, and coastal paths, in largely untouched nature. It's a calm and restorative setting, perfect for dogs who like to explore, run, or simply walk at a leisurely pace. The walk can be a little more strenuous in places, but it remains accessible. Note that it can be windy and you may sometimes have to share the paths with other hikers or some grazing cows.

A couple on the heights of Cap Blanc-Nez.

A couple walking their dog on the nature trails of Cap Blanc-Nez.