More and more people are choosing to travel with their dog on holiday. However, not all Spanish beaches allow pets, especially in high season. To avoid fines or other problems, it is advisable to check in advance which beaches are dog-friendly and to find out about the specific rules in each municipality.
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Spain currently has more than 100 dog beaches spread along its coastline, according to the specialist website Patitas&Co.
The Valencian Community, Catalonia, Andalusia and Murcia have the highest concentration of these areas, although there are also options in Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.
The regions with the most options
The Valencian Community is one of the regions with the highest number of dog-friendly beaches. Some of the best known include Agua Amarga, in Alicante; Caleta dels Gossets, in Santa Pola; Punta del Riu, in El Campello; and Pinedo beach, in Valencia. Catalonia also offers plenty of alternatives, such as La Rubina, in Castelló d'Empúries; Rec del Molí, in L'Escala; or Els Griells, in L'Estartit.
In Andalusia, designated beaches in the provinces of Málaga, Almería and Cádiz stand out, while Murcia has several specific areas for pets. Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands also offer spaces where dogs are allowed in the water all year round or at certain times of the year.
Always check the local regulations
Although the number of options grows every summer, most Spanish beaches still ban dogs during the summer season. Restrictions are set by each local council, so it is essential to check the rules before you travel.
Some beaches require animals to be kept under control at all times, while others insist on having up-to-date health documentation or restrict access to certain times of day.
Advice for going to the beach with your dog
If you are planning a day at the beach with your pet, vets recommend avoiding the hottest hours, taking enough water to keep your dog hydrated and making sure there are shaded areas available.
It is also important to always pick up your dog's waste, respect other beachgoers and keep an eye on their paw pads, as the sand can reach very high temperatures in summer.