Planning a beach holiday but worried about your dog? No need! Spain offers a beautiful coastline with numerous dog-friendly beaches. From Murcia to the Costa del Sol, Mallorca, and Northern Spain, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea with your furry friend. In this article, we’ll highlight the top 5 dog-friendly beaches in Spain where you and your dog can have fun year-round. Get ready to pack your bags, and don’t forget the tennis ball!
Are dogs allowed on beaches in Spain?
The rules regarding dogs on beaches in Spain vary depending on the specific beach and the time of year. Generally, here are some key points:
- General Restrictions: Many beaches in Spain do not allow dogs during the high tourist season, which is typically from June to September. This is especially true for the most popular and crowded beaches.
- Dog-Friendly Beaches: There are designated dog-friendly beaches where dogs are allowed year-round or have fewer restrictions. These beaches are often less crowded and provide facilities for pet owners.
- Local Regulations: Regulations can vary significantly by region and even by municipality. Some areas might have more relaxed rules, while others are stricter.
- Off-Season: During the off-season (usually from October to May), many beaches that normally prohibit dogs may allow them.
- Leash and Clean-Up Requirements: Even on beaches where dogs are allowed, there are usually regulations requiring dogs to be on a leash and owners to clean up after their pets.
To ensure compliance and avoid fines, it's a good idea to check the specific rules of the beach you plan to visit or contact local authorities for up-to-date information.
Dog friendly beaches in Spain
Spain features numerous dog-friendly beaches across its coastline, providing opportunities for pet owners to enjoy coastal adventures with their dogs. These beaches typically offer designated areas where dogs are permitted to roam off-leash and splash in the waves. Many provide facilities such as waste disposal stations and freshwater showers to ensure a clean and enjoyable environment for everyone. It's advisable to check local regulations as rules can vary by region and season, with some beaches imposing restrictions during peak tourist periods. Whether exploring the Mediterranean or Atlantic coasts, dog lovers can find welcoming spots to relax and play with their four-legged friends. These are our top picks.
Rubina Beach in Castelló d'Empúries, Catalonia
Playa de la Rubina was the first official dog beach in Spain and has put this Costa Blanca beach on the map. Spanning a full 200 metres, this beach offers a designated area where your furry companion can roam freely and socialise with other dogs. Situated in the vicinity of the Natural Park of the Aiguamolls del Empordà, this beach presents a breathtaking setting, making it an ideal destination for vacations, whether you're accompanied by pets or not.
The waves are gentle, which will help your four-legged friend to pluck up the courage to take a swim. And if after a day of playing on the beach with your dog you want to enjoy a drink in a beach bar, the nearby restaurant in the neighbouring campsite also accepts pets.
- See holiday rentals that accept pets in Castelló d'Empúries
- Find property for sale in Castelló d'Empúries
La Maza Beach in San Vicente de la Barquera, Cantabria
Also known as "playa de los vagos" (the lazy beach), this Spanish dog-friendly beach opened a few years ago and has now become a favourite for dog owners in Spain and for those bring their dog to Spain during the holidays. It’s not too big, just 150 metres long, but the golden sand and calm waters will be a real treat for all furry visitors and their owners.
If you want a bit of a rest from the beach, we recommend taking a stroll through the marvellous fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera this summer 2025, as well as visiting the fishing port, the Punta Silla lighthouse and the Castillo del Rey.
- See holiday rentals that accept pets in San Vicente de la Barquera
- Find property for sale in San Vicente de la Barquera
O Espiño Beach in O Grove, Galicia
For dog enthusiasts visiting the municipality of O Grove in the northern Spanish province of Pontevedra, the beach of O Espiño presents a delightful option. This dog-friendly beach in Spain spans a length of 75 metres, complementing the 50-metre stretch of O Portiño, another canine-friendly beach within the municipality. Together, they form a charming and spacious area that is highly enjoyable for dogs. With gentle waves, even the most timid of dogs will find delight in taking a refreshing swim.
Cobaticas Beach in Mazarrón, Murcia
Situated in the southern region of Murcia, nestled between the renowned beaches of Bolnuevo and Percheles, you'll find the captivating Playa de las Cobaticas. Although it may be lesser known compared to its neighbouring counterparts, this beach exudes breathtaking beauty and offers mesmerising views. What's more, it proudly upholds its status as a dog-friendly beach, providing yet another delightful option for canine companions to enjoy the seaside.
This beach is not the easiest to get to, but precisely for this reason, this beach is not busy at all and your doggy can play with lots of free space, ideal for greyhounds and other dogs that love running around!
Agua Amarga beach, Alicante
If you're planning to head to Alicante this summer with pets, we recommend heading to the dog friendly beach of Agua Amarga this summer 2025, one of the best places to cool off with a dip in the sea. This beach is located between the city of Alicante and Urbanova and has around 250 metres of coastline to be enjoyed.
You can even find special parasols for dogs, as well as sun loungers for humans, and for this reason, since 2016 this has been one of the very best beaches to go on holiday with dogs in Spain. If you want to explore more beaches that'll welcome your pet in the area, check out our complete guide to the best dog friendly beaches in Alicante, or head up the coast and discover dog friendly beaches in Valencia.
Dog friendly beaches in Southern Spain
Southern Spain is the destination of choice for many holidaymakers and their furry friends. The good news is that in southern Spain, particularly along the Mediterranean coastline, there are several dog-friendly beaches that cater to pet owners seeking seaside experiences with their dogs. These beaches often provide designated areas where dogs can roam freely and enjoy the water, although regulations can vary depending on the specific municipality or beach.
Here are a few examples of dog-friendly beaches in southern Spain:
- Playa de la Sal in Cadiz: Located near Cadiz city, Playa de la Sal is known for its dog-friendly policy year-round. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Playa de la Viborilla in Malaga: Situated along the Costa del Sol, Playa de la Viborilla allows dogs on certain parts of the beach, making it a popular spot for local dog owners.
- Playa Canina El Cable in Marbella: This beach in Marbella is specifically designated for dogs and their owners. It features facilities like waste bins, showers, and a veterinary service during summer months.
- Playa de la Misericordia in Malaga: During the off-season months, Playa de la Misericordia allows dogs on the beach. It's a spacious beach with facilities and easy access from Malaga city.
- Playa de la Araña in Malaga: Another option in Malaga, Playa de la Araña allows dogs outside of the peak tourist season. It's known for its scenic views and quieter atmosphere.
These examples highlight the variety of dog-friendly beaches available in southern Spain, each offering different amenities and regulations. It's always a good idea to verify current rules and any seasonal restrictions before planning a visit.
What is the most dog friendly city in Spain?
One of the most dog-friendly cities in Spain is Barcelona.
Why Barcelona?
- Public transport: Dogs are allowed on the metro (with a muzzle and leash during certain hours).
- Dog beaches: The city has dedicated dog-friendly beaches like Playa de Llevant, open to dogs during summer.
- Green spaces: Plenty of parks and open areas such as Parc de la Ciutadella and Montjuïc welcome dogs.
- Pet-friendly venues: Many cafes, restaurants, and shops allow dogs inside or on terraces.
- Accommodation: Numerous dog-friendly hotels and Airbnbs.
Other honourable mentions:
- Madrid: Great dog parks, dog-friendly public transport (with rules), and many dog-friendly bars and terraces.
- Bilbao: Known for its relaxed attitude towards dogs in public places.
- Valencia: Several beaches and parks welcome dogs, and the city promotes pet adoption and responsible ownership.
For more on living in Spain with pets, including new dog laws in Spain, check out our guide.
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