I have spent years traveling across the world, but I always felt bad leaving my best friend behind. You know the feeling. You pack your bags, and those sad puppy eyes follow you to the door. I decided that things had to change. I wanted to know: is europe dog friendly?. My journey took me from the cold Baltic Sea to the warm Mediterranean. I found that the answer is a big yes.
Many people ask, do any beaches allow dogs?. The truth is that Europe is currently changing its coastal areas to welcome our four-legged family members. There is even a special dog friendly beaches europe map in my head now, filled with spots where tails wag and paws run free.
First of all, I want to share the top dog friendly european beaches based on actual data and my own walks. A recent study looked at over 130 beaches to find the best spots for pets. They checked the length of the beach, the weather, and how soft the sand is. This is the ultimate guide for a dog friendly beach holidays europe trip that you and your pup will never forget.
1. Plage de la Salie Sud, France
I must start with the champion. Plage de la Salie Sud in La Teste-de-Buch is the best dog beach europe has to offer. It scored a huge 90.33 out of 100 on the dog-friendly index. This beach is a wild and natural paradise. It stretches for 2.4 kilometers along the Atlantic coast.
Though the waves can be quite strong, the sand is flat and perfect for the “zoomies”. I loved the 10-minute walk through the pine forest to reach the water. It feels like a secret escape. Dogs are welcome here all year, even in the middle of summer. You should visit around 8 PM to see the most beautiful sunsets when the beach is nearly empty. On top of that, there is a great restaurant in the forest and beach bars for a cold drink. Just remember that the parking has a height limit of 1.9 meters for campervans.
2. Praia do Cabedelo, Portugal
After we leave the wild waves of France, we should look at the golden shores of Portugal. Praia do Cabedelo sits in second place with a score of 84.75. It is very close to the town of Viana do Castelo. This beach has 1.7 kilometers of soft sand.
The morning walks here are quiet and peaceful. However, this area is also famous for water sports like surfing and kitesurfing because of the strong winds. You should keep your dog on a lead in the busy parts to respect other people. Portugal is becoming much more pet-positive lately. Pure joy.
3. Holkham Beach, England
I believe that England is one of the most welcoming places for dogs. Holkham Beach in Norfolk is ranked third in all of Europe. It is a massive stretch of sand, about 6.43 kilometers long. It is part of a 10,000-acre nature reserve.
At low tide, the water is very far away, leaving a giant playground of firm sand. Dogs can roam here all year. Additionally, the Wells Beach Café is legendary among dog owners. They have a “Bark Up Bar” for water and even serve doggy ice cream. “It is a dog’s dream,” as some locals say. Therefore, you must bring a towel because your pup will definitely get wet.
4. Saunton Beach, England
Similarly, Saunton Beach in North Devon is a top choice. It is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This beach is special because it is dog-friendly 365 days a year. It has over 3 miles of golden sand.
At low tide, there are nearly 3 million square meters of space to play. Plus, the beach has dedicated waste stations to keep everything clean. Saunton Beach Villas nearby allow any number of dogs to stay. This is rare for luxury places. Later, you can grab a bite at the Beachside Grill where dogs are always welcome.
5. Rhossili Bay, Wales
The “supermodel of British beaches” is Rhossili Bay. It has three miles of soft sand right under tall cliffs. Dogs are allowed off-lead all year long.
I suggest walking along the Worm’s Head peninsula for amazing views. Just be careful with the tide times so you do not get stuck. The freedom here is incredible. Your dog will love the fresh sea air.
6. Brancaster Beach, England
Moving along the UK coast, we find Brancaster Beach in Norfolk. It takes the sixth spot in Europe. It has vast open spaces that are perfect for a long game of fetch.
The terrain is very safe for paws. On top of that, the atmosphere is very relaxed. Most people here are dog lovers themselves. Similarly to Holkham, it has that classic Norfolk charm.
7. Perranporth Beach, England
Perranporth Beach in Cornwall is another gem. It is famous for its wide sands and surf. It is ranked seventh for its great conditions.
I love how close it is to the local village shops. You can walk right off the sand and find a café that will give your dog a bowl of water. However, check the local signs for any small zones where leads might be needed during the busy hours.
8. Fanø Beach, Denmark
Finally, a non-British beach breaks the top streak! Fanø Beach in Denmark is eighth on the list. It is on a 15-kilometer-long island. The entire shore is dog-friendly.
It features dunes and tidal flats that dogs find very exciting. This is Denmark’s best canine playground. Plus, the air is crisp and clean. Gradually, you will notice how much your dog enjoys the different smells of the tidal area.
9. Watergate Bay, England
Back in England, Watergate Bay near Newquay is a must-see. It is ranked ninth in Europe. The beach is two miles of golden sand at low tide.
It is very popular with surfers, but there is plenty of room for everyone. Dogs are welcome all year. Similarly, the nearby hotels often have special rooms for pets. It is a very stylish spot for a vacation.
10. Enniscrone Beach, Ireland
Ireland has some of the best dog friendly beaches europe offers. Enniscrone Beach on the west coast is tied for tenth place. It has 5 kilometers of sandy shore.
Dogs can access this beach all year. It is perfect for long-distance fetch. On the contrary to busy city beaches, this place feels very open and free. The water clarity is also very high here.
11. Ballinesker Beach, Ireland
Also tied for tenth is Ballinesker Beach. It is famous for its soft terrain and clear water. This beach also offers 5 kilometers of space.
I found the sand to be very gentle on my dog’s paws. It is a peaceful spot for a quiet morning walk. Therefore, it is a great choice if your dog is a bit shy around large crowds.
12. Sandhead Beach, Scotland
Do not let the chilly water stop you! Sandhead Beach in Scotland is ranked eleventh. It is a massive coastal gem in Dumfries and Galloway.
The space here is truly impressive. Even if the water is cold, dogs love to run along the edge. Plus, the views across the water are stunning. It is a rugged and beautiful place for an adventure.
13. Spiaggia di Balestrate, Italy
Now, we head south to Italy. Spiaggia di Balestrate in Sicily is the twelfth best beach for dogs. It is one of the leading Mediterranean spots.
Italy has many “equipped” dog beaches. These places offer sunbeds for dogs and even showers. At that time, I realized that Italian dog beaches are very fancy. You might even find a kiosk selling “Ice Bau,” which is ice cream for dogs.
14. Blaavand Beach, Denmark
Denmark appears again with Blaavand Beach at number thirteen. This beach is known for its wide sandy shores.
It is a very safe environment for pets. Additionally, the local houses often come with fenced yards for dogs. It is a very family-oriented destination.
15. Praia do Coral, Portugal
Portugal has another winner with Praia do Coral. It is ranked fourteenth.
This beach is located in Viana do Castelo. It is a smaller, more intimate spot than Praia do Cabedelo. Therefore, it is great for a relaxing afternoon under the sun.
16. Le Touquet – Plage des Dunes, France
France returns to the list with Plage des Dunes in Le Touquet. It is ranked fifteenth.
The town of Le Touquet has a “Qualidog” label, which means they are very friendly to pets. The beach has a 7-kilometer stretch of sand. You can find dog-friendly cafés nearby that serve moules-frites for the humans.
17. Hundestrand St. Peter-Ording, Germany
Germany is very organized when it comes to pets. St. Peter-Ording is ranked sixteenth. It is part of a National Park.
While leads are usually required, there are two large off-leash areas. I loved the salt meadows and pine forests nearby. Plus, they have five official dog beaches. It is a very healthy place for a long walk.
18. Hundestrand Zinnowitz, Germany
On the Baltic Sea, Zinnowitz is the seventeenth best beach. It is a famous spa town on Usedom Island.
The beach has fine, soft sand. Although rules can change, it is a very welcoming spot for furry friends. On top of that, you can rent a beach chair to relax while your dog digs in the sand.
19. Irvine Beach, Scotland
Scotland makes the list again with Irvine Beach in Ayrshire. It is ranked nineteenth.
It is another cold-water paradise. The sand is wide and great for running. Finally, the local people are very friendly and often stop to say hello to your pup.
20. Plaža Veli Jože, Croatia
Our list ends in beautiful Croatia with Plaža Veli Jože. It is ranked twentieth in Europe.
Croatia is opening many more designated dog sections lately. You can recognize them by the blue sign with a dog bone. The water is crystal clear and very blue.
More Incredible Spots to Sniff Out
While the top 20 list is great, I found some other favorites that deserve a mention. If you find yourself in the Netherlands, you must go to Noordwijk. It is often called the most dog-friendly beach in the country. From September to May, dogs can run off-leash across the entire beach. There is even a 4-kilometer stretch that is open to dogs all year round. On top of that, you are only 45 minutes from Amsterdam.
If you prefer Germany, I suggest Binz on the island of Rügen. At the “Nordstrand” (access points 50 and 51), dogs can run free all year. The sand is fine and the water is shallow. Similarly, Warnemünde has great dog beaches where pups can run off the lead, provided they listen to your calls.
In Croatia, you cannot miss Monty’s Beach Bar in Crikvenica. It was Croatia’s first official dog-friendly beach. They have a bar that welcomes humans and dogs. You can buy your dog a special beer called “Snuffle,” which is made from chicken or beef. Plus, they have doggy pizza and herbal teas. Truly, this is the high life for a pet.
Italy also has the famous La Spiaggia di Pluto in Bibione. This place is amazing because it offers specialized dog sunbeds and personal water bowls. They even have an agility course and a vet on site. It is like a resort just for dogs.
Things to Know Before You Go
When you travel through Europe, you need to be prepared. First of all, you must have an EU Pet Passport if you are moving between member states. Your dog needs a microchip and a valid rabies vaccine. This vaccine must be given at least 21 days before you travel.
If you are going to Ireland, Malta, Finland, or Norway, your dog needs a worming treatment. A vet must do this between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive. Do not forget to have the exact time and date written in the passport.
For those traveling from the UK to the EU, you now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for every trip. Your vet must issue this within 10 days of your travel date. It is a bit more work, but it is worth it to see your dog playing in the French sand.
On the Road and on the Waves
Getting around Europe with a dog is actually quite easy. Many trains allow dogs. In the Netherlands, small dogs in carriers travel for free. Larger dogs only need a cheap day ticket. Similarly, German trains (DB) usually charge half the price of an adult fare for large dogs.
If you need to cross the sea, look for dog-friendly cabins on ferries. Companies like Stena Line and DFDS have cabins where your dog can stay with you during the night. This is much better than leaving them in a kennel. On top of that, they often have special decks where your dog can go to the bathroom and exercise.
Keeping Your Best Friend Safe
The sun can be very strong in places like Spain and Italy. Avoid the hottest hours of the day so your dog does not overheat. Hot sand can also burn their paw pads. Always bring plenty of fresh water so they do not drink the salty seawater.
Drinking seawater can cause vomiting and diarrhea. If your dog swims in the ocean, rinse them with fresh water afterward to remove the salt and sand from their fur. Also, watch out for jellyfish or sharp shells on the beach. In some places like Cornwall, you should watch for adders in the dunes, as they can bite.
A Note on Rules and Etiquette
Every beach has its own rules. Some allow dogs to run free, while others require a lead. Always look for the signs at the beach entrance. Most importantly, you must always pick up after your dog. In Poland, you can be fined 500 PLN if you do not clean up.
FAQ
What beach is the most dog friendly?
I found that Plage de la Salie Sud in France is the most dog-friendly beach in all of Europe. It has the highest score of 90.33 out of 100 on the pet-friendly index. This location provides a massive 2.4 kilometers of sand for pets to play all year long.
Where to go in Europe with a dog?
Europe offers many great destinations like the South of France and Berlin. You can visit the Dolomites for hikes or the Netherlands for beach fun. Croatia and Germany also offer many designated dog sections.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
The United Kingdom is a great place for a holiday. It holds eight of the top 20 spots for pet-friendly beaches. France and the Netherlands also provide many choices for owners with wide-open spaces and welcoming cafes.
Concluding Words
Europe is a paradise for people who travel with pets. You can find 20 top beaches that provide wide sands and clear water for every dog. Locations in France, the UK, and the Netherlands lead the scores for pet safety and space. You must bring a pet passport and follow local rules to stay safe. Plus, you should check for hot sand to protect your pet. Therefore, you should plan your trip and head to the coast today. To find a dog friendly beach in Europe is like finding a giant toy box that never ends.
