I have traveled across the stunning coastlines of Spain with my loyal furry companion by my side for many years. You might find yourself asking a very common question: can dogs go on the beach in Spain?. The answer is a loud and happy yes! Spain has become a true paradise for pet owners, boasting more than 100 officially recognized dog-friendly beaches as of 2025.
If you love travel and tours, you know that a vacation is not the same without the whole family. Golden sand. Salty fur. Pure joy.
In this guide, I will share my personal experiences and the absolute best dog friendly beaches spain has to offer. I will also help you understand the rules so you do not get a surprise fine.
Are Dogs Allowed on Beaches in Spain?
First of all, you need to understand how the law works here. The national Coastal Law does not actually ban dogs. Instead, it lets local town councils decide the rules for their own shores. This means one town might welcome pups with open arms while the next one says no. Therefore, looking at a Dog-friendly beaches Spain map is the smartest way to plan your route.
Most regular beaches do not allow dogs during the busy summer months, which usually run from June to September. However, there are many spots where your four-legged friend can splash all year long. Plus, during the off-season from October to May, many “human-only” beaches open their gates to our pets.
Are Dogs Allowed in National Parks in Spain?
This is another big question I get often: ***”Are dogs allowed in National parks in spain?”***. Generally, you can take your dog into these beautiful protected areas, but they must follow strict rules. In most cases, dogs must stay on a leash at all times.
This is to protect the local wildlife and the environment. If you let your dog run free in a protected natural area, you could face very high fines. Always look for signs at the entrance to be safe.
Important Rules for a Tail-Wagging Trip
Before we dive into the list, let us talk about safety and health. Your dog must have a microchip and be up to date on all vaccinations. If you are coming from another country, you need a valid EU Pet Passport.
Additionally, if you own a “Potentially Dangerous Dog” (PPP) breed like a Pit Bull or Rottweiler, the rules are stricter. These dogs must always wear a muzzle and stay on a short leash of less than two meters. You also must carry liability insurance, which in regions like Andalusia must cover at least €175,000.
Now, let us explore the top 15 spots that make Dog friendly Spain so special.
1. Playa de la Rubina, Empuriabrava (Girona)
This beach is a legend. Playa de la Rubina was the very first official dog beach in Spain. It is located on the beautiful Costa Brava, right next to the Natural Park of the Aiguamolls del Empordà.
I love this spot because it feels wild and natural. It offers a designated area of 200 meters where dogs can run freely and socialize. The waves are usually very gentle, which is perfect for dogs that are a bit nervous about the water.
Details for your visit:
- Terrain: Fine golden sand.
- Services: There is a nearby restaurant and campsite that are very pet-friendly.
- Experience: It is a great place to meet other dog lovers.
2. Agua Amarga Dog Beach (Alicante)
If you are looking for dog friendly beaches valencia spain, this is the gold standard. Located just south of Alicante city, Agua Amarga is often called the “Doggy Beach“.
This beach is incredibly well-equipped. It was built with canine comfort as the main goal. It stretches for about 250 meters and offers amazing services. You can find dog showers, special drinking fountains, and even a “chiringuito” (beach bar) that serves beverages specifically for dogs!.
Statistical Highlight: Since it opened in 2016, it has become one of the most popular spots in the Valencian Community.
3. Playa de la Maza, San Vicente de la Barquera (Cantabria)
Let us head north. Dog-friendly beaches northern Spain are known for their rugged beauty and green landscapes. Playa de la Maza, also known as the “lazy beach” (playa de los vagos), is a favorite of mine.
It is a small, cozy spot of about 150 meters. The sand is fine and golden, and the water is very calm because it is inside an estuary. It is the perfect place for a quiet afternoon of digging holes.
Travel Tip: After the beach, take a walk through the fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera. It is breathtaking.
4. Playa del Castillo Sohail, Fuengirola (Málaga)
This is one of the best dog friendly beaches spain offers in the south. It is located right next to the historic Sohail Castle. The view of the castle overlooking the sea is simply unique.
Even though it is not the largest beach, it has plenty of space for dogs to play. At that time when I visited, the atmosphere was very relaxed. It has basic services like bins and easy access, plus several beach bars nearby for the humans.
Regulation Note: If your dog weighs more than 20 kilograms, they may be required to wear a muzzle here.
5. Playa Canina de Torre del Mar (Málaga)
On top of that, Málaga has another fantastic spot. The Torre del Mar dog beach is massive! It spans about 4,000 square meters of fine sand.
This beach is like a playground for pups. It features a 250-square-meter play area, a dog park, and an agility circuit. There are also dog showers and fountains to keep everyone cool.
Important Detail: This beach is officially classified as “non-bathing” for humans. This means you can let your dog play in the waves, but you should not go for a swim yourself.
6. Playa de O Espiño, O Grove (Galicia)
If you are following a dog friendly beaches northern spain map, you must stop in Galicia. Playa de O Espiño is a hidden gem in the province of Pontevedra.
It is about 75 meters long and is located next to another small dog beach called O Portiño. The water is crystal clear and very calm. It is a very peaceful spot, away from the loud crowds of the city.
Paw Pad Safety: Just a warning—some beaches in this area have many sharp shell fragments that can cut sensitive paws. Always check the sand before letting your dog run!
7. Playa de Bayas, Castrillón (Asturias)
This is the king of Dog-friendly beaches northern Spain. Playa de Bayas is absolutely massive! It offers a staggering 2,800 meters of dark golden sand.
Walking here feels like an endless adventure. It is surrounded by a protected natural environment with beautiful dunes. It is one of the largest dog-friendly stretches in the entire country. Your dog will have more than enough room to run until they are tired.
8. Playa de Llevant (Barcelona)
Can dogs go on the beach in a big city? In Barcelona, they can! Playa de Llevant has a specially enabled area for dogs during the high season.
It is a well-equipped urban beach with dog showers, drinking fountains, and even a fenced enclosure. However, because it is in a major city, it can get very crowded. I suggest arriving early in the morning to find a good spot.
Capacity Note: The area is limited to a certain number of dogs at one time to keep everyone safe.
9. Playa de Pinedo (Valencia City)
This is a top choice for dog friendly beaches valencia spain. Located just south of the city’s port, Playa de Pinedo offers a huge area of over 9,000 square meters for our pets.
It is famous for its fine sand and calm waters. There is also a pet-friendly beach bar where you can relax while your dog plays in the sand.
Season Rule: This beach is only open for dogs during the summer months, usually from June 1st to September 15th.
10. Playa El Espigón (Huelva)
In southern Spain, Playa El Espigón is a dream for lovers of wild landscapes. It is located within the Marismas del Odiel Biosphere Reserve.
This beach is huge, stretching over 2.5 kilometers. There is a large designated area for dogs accessible through walkways 5 and 6. It is a very quiet, “virgin” beach, so you must bring your own water and shade.
Nature Tip: Because it is a nature reserve, you might see many beautiful water birds and even flamingos nearby!.
11. Playa de las Cobaticas, Mazarrón (Murcia)
For those who want to escape the crowds, Playa de las Cobaticas is the place to be. It is located in a more remote area between two famous beaches.
The terrain is a mix of gravel and sand, and it offers amazing views of the coast. It is rarely busy, which gives your dog lots of free space to run around. It is ideal for high-energy breeds like greyhounds.
12. Caleta dels Gossets, Santa Pola (Alicante)
This is consistently rated as one of the best dog friendly beaches spain has to offer. It is a beautiful cove with a mix of rock and fine sand.
It is located at the foot of the impressive Santa Pola lighthouse cliffs. The environment is a protected landscape of great beauty. To keep things orderly, the council only allows two dogs per person.
13. Playa El Pinillo, Marbella (Málaga)
Marbella is not just for luxury hotels; it is also for luxury dogs! Playa El Pinillo is a wonderful sandy stretch on the outskirts of the city.
It is about 1.5 kilometers long and provides a comfortable surface for soft paws. It features dedicated facilities like showers and fountains for pets. Plus, there is a promenade nearby with “chiringuitos” where you can grab a snack.
14. Playa de la Platjola, Alcanar (Tarragona)
If you are looking for a clean and quiet spot in Catalonia, Playa de la Platjola is a great choice. It is a “virgin” beach located in a natural setting.
The town cleans the sand daily to ensure a pleasant experience. However, be careful with the schedule! During the summer, dogs are typically not allowed between 11 AM and 6 PM to accommodate cleaning and other bathers.
15. Guacimeta Beach, Playa Honda (Lanzarote)
Finally, let us look at the islands. Playa de Guacimeta is located right next to the airport runway.
It is a unique experience to watch the planes take off and land while your dog plays in the toasted sand. The water is very calm, making it a safe place for a swim. There are no time limits here, so you can enjoy the sun all day long.
Tips for a Safe Beach Day with Your Dog
Gradually, you will realize that taking a dog to the beach requires some planning. Here are my top tips to make sure your day is perfect:
- Protect the Paws: Hot sand can burn a dog’s pads very quickly. I always walk my dog on the wet sand near the water because it is much cooler. You can also use special balms or booties for extra protection.
- Fresh Water is Vital: Never let your dog drink salt water, as it will make them sick. Always carry plenty of fresh water and a portable bowl.
- Shade is a Must: Dogs can get heat stroke just like us. Bring an umbrella or a small tent so they have a place to rest out of the direct sun.
- Clean Up Everything: This is the most important rule. Always pick up your dog’s waste and put it in the correct bin. This helps keep these beaches open for everyone!.
- Watch the Waves: Not every dog is a natural swimmer. Always supervise your pet in the water and avoid areas with strong currents.
Traveling by Train and Staying Over
Similarly to the beaches, transport in Spain is becoming more pet-friendly. Renfe, the national train company, now allows dogs up to 40 kilograms on many high-speed routes. This makes it much easier to visit dog friendly beaches northern spain if you are staying in the center of the country.
When it comes to staying the night, many campsites on the Costa Brava and in Alicante offer special services for pets. Some even have agility circuits and grooming stations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What beach is the most dog-friendly?
I believe Agua Amarga in Alicante is the top choice. It is often called the “Doggy Beach” because it was built specifically for pets. It offers dog showers, drinking fountains, and even a beach bar that serves specialized beverages for dogs. Torre del Mar in Málaga is another heavy hitter with its massive 4,000 square meter play area and agility circuit.
Where are dogs allowed in Spain?
You will find more than 100 officially recognized dog-friendly beaches along the Spanish coast as of 2025. Most of these spots are in regions like Catalonia, Valencia, and Andalusia. However, you must check local municipal rules because they vary by town. Many regular beaches also open to dogs during the off-season, usually from October to May.
Which beach is best for dogs?
The “best” beach depends on what your pup likes. If your dog loves to run for miles, Playa de Bayas in Asturias is the winner with its 2,800 meters of sand. For dogs that prefer calm waters, Playa de la Rubina in Girona is perfect because the waves are very gentle. Playa El Espigón in Huelva is best for those who want a wild, natural environment away from the city.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
I highly recommend Girona and Alicante. These provinces are pioneers in pet-friendly tourism and offer many services like specialized campsites and hotels. Barcelona is also cited as one of the most dog-friendly cities due to its pet-inclusive public transport and green spaces.
Why are dogs not allowed on most beaches?
Local town councils often cite health and safety risks to human bathers. They worry about the presence of dog waste or urine in the sand and water. However, many people argue that human litter is a much bigger problem on the shores.
What is the 7 second rule for dogs?
I use this rule to protect my dog’s paws from the hot sand. You should place the back of your hand on the surface for seven seconds. If the sand is too hot for you to hold your hand there, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. You must find shade or walk on the wet sand near the water to avoid burns.
Can I take my dog to the beach?
You can certainly take your dog to the beach, but you must choose one that is officially designated for pets. If you take a dog to a human-only beach during the high season, you will likely face a fine. Always look for the canine signs at the entrance to be sure.
Will my dog be ok at the beach?
Your dog will be very happy if you follow a few safety steps. You must provide plenty of fresh water and constant shade. On top of that, do not let your dog drink the salt water because it will cause stomach problems. Watch your dog closely to make sure they do not get too tired or hot.
Is it safe to walk your dog on the beach?
It is generally safe, but you should look out for a few things. Some beaches in the north have sharp shell fragments that can cut paw pads. Other spots might have sea urchins in the rocky areas. Plus, always watch out for hooks if there are fishermen nearby.
Concluding Worlds
In short, Spain is a fantastic destination for anyone who wants to enjoy the sea with their pet. You have many options, from the wild dunes of Asturias to the luxury dog services in Alicante. Additionally, you can find quiet coves in Galicia or massive urban beaches in Barcelona and Valencia.
Always remember to bring your Pet Passport, keep your dog under control, and clean up every mess. If we all act as responsible owners, these beautiful shores will stay open for our furry friends for a long time.
Analogy to help you remember: Think of a dog-friendly beach like a shared community garden. If everyone picks up their trash and respects the plants, the garden stays beautiful and the gates stay open. If people are messy, the gates get locked. We are all the gardeners of Spain’s beautiful coastline!
