Dog beaches

Topic: Free time with dogs

BEACH HOLIDAYS... WITH YOUR DOG!

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Summer is here and, with the hours of sunshine and high temperatures, beaches tend to be the most popular destinations for holidays and weekend plans. However, for dog owners it is a real headache to organise these days off with their pets (as many places do not accept their entry) or, worse still, to manage who they leave them with in their absence. But don't panic, both the Spanish and European coasts are full of hotels, restaurants, shops and, of course, dog-friendly beaches, where you can enjoy an incredible experience without giving up the company of your dog.

1 - Rules for going to the beach with your dog

2 - The best dog-friendly beaches in Spain

Dog friendly beaches in Andalusia
Dog friendly beaches in Asturias
Dog friendly beaches in Cantabria
Dog friendly beaches in Catalonia
Dog friendly beaches in the Valencian Community
Dog friendly beaches in Galicia
Dog friendly beaches in Balearic Islands
Dog friendly beaches in Canary Islands
Dog friendly beaches in Murcia
Are dogs allowed on European beaches?

3 - What do I need to take my dog to the beach?

Rules for taking your dog to the beach

As with any place where dogs are allowed, they are subject to a number of rules. If you are going to a dog beach with your dog, make sure you know the full rules of access to avoid fines and unpleasant incidents. Most dog beaches usually state in their rules that you must pick up after your dog's poo, which is also compulsory on the street. In addition, you will need to control your dog so that it does not disturb other animals or people on the beach. Up-to-date vaccination and deworming records, microchipping and leashes are some of the usual requirements for dog beaches, although it depends on each case.

The best dog-friendly beaches in Spain

Whether it's a day at the beach or a whole holiday, going to the beach with your dog is a fun and healthy experience for your pet. He will have a great time digging in the sand, trying to chase the waves or, if he has an adventurous nature, even swimming in the sea. Here is a list of the best dog-friendly beaches in Spain, sorted by region, so you can visit the one that suits you best.

1. Clowns for dogs in Andalusia

With more than 1000 km of coastline, a sunny and warm climate and delicious gastronomy, Andalusia is a holiday destination that never fails. In the south of Spain we highlight the Playa del Espigón beach, in the province of Huelva, one of the most peaceful canine coastal areas in the community. It stretches along no less than 2,500 m² of fine sand, and forms part of the Marismas del Odiel natural area, a biosphere reserve. The beautiful views and the warmth and calm of the Mediterranean Sea make it an excellent choice for walks and swimming with your pet.

Another highly recommended dog beach is the Sohail Castle Beach, in Fuengirola, Malaga. Although it is not as long as the previous one, it is also quite wide, with 1000 m² of length and shallow waters without slopes, perfect for the comfort of your furry friend. It also has showers adapted for dogs and two beach bars where you can have a drink between swims. Don't miss the El Cable Beach, in the Granada municipality of Motril, which is located next to the Paseo del Pájaro, near the port.

Dog sleeping on the beach very comfortable and cool under the shade.

2. Clowns for dogs in Asturias

If you prefer cliffside beaches where the heat is not so suffocating, we suggest you visit these in Asturias. We start with Gijón, which has the title of the most dog-friendly city in Spain. Not in vain, it has two dog-friendly beaches, theEl Rinconín Beach, with the added attraction of having a dog park, and the Sablon Beach, in Bayas-Castrillón, an area that some consider to be the best coastal enclave to enjoy with your furry friends.

3. Clowns for dogs in Cantabria

We continue with beaches bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, but we move to Cantabria, where we want to recommend it Beach La Maza, better known as Playa de Los Vagos, which stands out for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters. Located in the Oyambre estuary, in San Vicente de la Barquera, it is a beach that allows dogs both for walking and bathing. Another recommendation is the Playa Arcisero, in Castro Urdiales, although the terrain is rocky and the waves are medium-high, so you have to be more cautious. We recommend it only for walking and only if your furry friend does not have sensitive pads. Two other beaches in Castro Urdiales are Muelle Oriñón,the largest of the three, and Cala Cargadero Mioño, a very pleasant little cove.

4. Dog friendly beaches in Catalonia

Every summer, the coasts of Catalonia fill up with tourists, and many of them come with their dogs to the different dog beaches that dot the territory. One of the most popular is the Platja de Llevant de Barcelona, with 1220 m² and different services that make it one of the most comfortable. Much quieter is the Cala Vallcarca, en Sitges, A small, secluded and quiet natural area with no services. Perfect if your pet gets overwhelmed by the crowds and you are looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.

At the northern end of the touristy Costa Brava, close to the border with France, you will find the Platja de Sant Jordi, en Llança (Girona), where the terrain is sand and gravel and the sea is quite calm and pleasant for swimming with your pet. Don't miss the Platja de la Bassa de L’Arena, en Deltebre, Tarragona, one of the most highly rated dog-friendly beaches with fine golden sand. The dog-friendly area extends over 500 m² at the end of the Riumor promenade.

5. Clowns for dogs in the Valencian Community

Valencia's beaches are an infallible holiday destination. Pleasant temperatures, fine sandy beaches and a calm, warm sea. If you want to enjoy the Valencian coastline with your pet, make a note of the Beach de Pinedo, very close to the capital, Valencia. It is a shared access beach with a small area for dogs that can only be used during the summer season.

In Alicante, we highlight the Caleta dels Gossets, in Santa Pola. Access by car is very easy and fishing is prohibited, which will give you peace of mind, as the lines and hooks of the rods are dangerous for dogs. The water quality of this beach is constantly checked, making it a perfect place for your dog to swim. In Castellón we recommend the Beach de les Llanetes, in the Sòl de Riu de Vinaròs Natural Park.

Dog appreciating the moment on the beach

6. Clowns for dogs in Galicia

The beaches in Galicia are very special, so if you are passing through this area with your pet, don't forget to visit the Beach de O Espiño, en San Vicente do Mar, a 75m² rectilinear course in a semi-urban environment (next to the Pedras Negras Marina in O Grove), with coarse sand and little sea swell. In Vigo, we highlight the Beach de A Foz y A Calzoa, located next to each other and both suitable for puppies.

7. Clowns for dogs in Balearic Islands

They say that paradise is to be found in the Balearic Islands. In this area, which every year receives tourists from all over the world, including celebrities from all over the world, you will find the beach Santa Eulalia del Riu, in Ibiza. Coinciding with the mouth of a river, the unspoilt nature of this enclave stands out.

In Palma de Mallorca you can enjoy the beach canina de Es Caratge, a natural area between Coll d'en Rabassa and Can Pastilla. Your dog will have a great time among the rocks of this beautiful cove.

8. Clowns for dogs in the Canary Islands

Its desert landscapes and climate make the Canary Islands the perfect beach destination 365 days a year. If you are travelling with your dog, don't hesitate to come to the beach de Bocabarranco, in Telde, Gran Canaria. Equipped with plenty of litter bins for your pet's poo, this dark sandy beach has a bit of a rough surf, so we recommend it only for walking with your dog.

In San Bartolomé, Lanzarote, the beach de la Guacimeta allows access to dogs all year round, not just in summer. And if you are looking for a dog-friendly beach with good services in Tenerife, we recommend the Beach El Puertito, en Güímar.

9. Clowns for dogs in Murcia

Murcia's beaches are part of its charm. And if you travel to this destination, you won't have to leave your dog at home. Thea beach de las Moreras, en Mazarrón, is highly recommended because, being semi-urban, it has some services nearby. Dogs can access it every day of the year. Other dog-friendly beaches in Murcia are Gachero, quite calm, and that of Covaticas, with a slightly more difficult access but of great beauty.

10. Are dogs allowed on European beaches?

If you want to travel to a European destination, you will be happy to know that more and more countries have dog-friendly beaches or even allow dogs on most of them. This is the case in Italy, where almost all beaches have a dog-friendly area. Some Italian beaches specifically for dogs are Pascià Glam Beach, in the Toscana o la Dog Beach San Vincenzo.

In countries such as Greece, dogs are allowed in many public spaces, including most beaches, while in Croatia you can take your dog off the leash in the Bi Dog Beach para que goce the freedom to run between the sand and the waves.
By the way, if you're in France, in the playa de La Touquet, Not only will your dog be able to walk and swim, but when you get tired of the sun and the sea, you can go to one of the dog-friendly restaurants on the seafront promenade together. How wonderful!

If your next trip is to a European destination and you're visiting the coast, check out the dog-friendly beaches of Portugal, the Netherlands, Ireland... You've got plenty of options!

Dog resting after playing at the beach

What do I need to take my dog to the beach?

When you go to the beach with your furry friend, don't forget to take plenty of water, food - if you're going to be there for a long time - and some snacks to reward him when he behaves well, especially if it's his first time in the sea. It is also essential that you take an umbrella with you so that your dog can cool off whenever he wants. Other recommendations that will help you to enjoy a pleasant stay at the beach are to avoid the hottest hours of the day and to be as quiet as possible. By the way, be sure to protect your pet's pads with a specific sun cream and, if he doesn't like to bathe, take a water spray to wet him a little from time to time and prevent him from getting too hot. You can also wet your hands with sea water and stroke him to moisten his fur, and enjoy the sand and waves together!