Travelling around Spain with a dog is becoming easier, but beach access still requires some planning. Many popular stretches of sand ban pets during the summer, while others reserve specific areas where dogs can swim and stay with their owners.

The rules are usually set locally, which means a beach that welcomes dogs in winter may be off-limits in August. Before setting out, check the current restrictions and bring your dog’s identification and health documents. Here are several useful options for summer 2026.

Pinedo Beach, Valencia

For travellers staying in Valencia, Pinedo is one of the easiest summer options. The city maintains a designated canine section where dogs can access both the sand and water.

For the 2026 season, the dog area operates from 1 June to 15 September, from 11:00 to 19:00. The space covers almost 10,000 square metres and includes adapted dog showers, wooden walkways to protect paws from hot sand and equipment for securing leads.

Dogs must remain controlled inside the designated area, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.

Entry to the beach is free.

Budget: A simple beach day can cost around €15–30 per person for public transport, drinks and a casual lunch. Bring your own umbrella and water to keep costs lower.

Pinedo is particularly convenient if you want to combine a city break in Valencia with a few hours by the sea.

Caleta dels Gossets

Near Santa Pola on the Costa Blanca, Caleta dels Gossets offers a more natural setting.

This designated dog cove is about 257 metres long and has basic facilities, including a seasonal beach bar with public toilets. Dogs are officially permitted here.

Owners must keep their pets under control, carry an up-to-date vaccination record and ensure that dogs are microchipped and dewormed. Dogs classified under dangerous-breed regulations must wear a muzzle and remain on a lead. A maximum of two dogs per person is allowed.

The beach itself is free to use.

Budget: Allow around €20–35 for drinks, lunch and local transport or parking-related expenses.

Because the surroundings are relatively exposed, bring shade and plenty of fresh water rather than relying entirely on facilities at the beach.

La Rubina, Costa Brava

La Rubina near Empuriabrava is one of Spain’s best-known beaches for travellers with pets.

The beach sits in a relatively undeveloped coastal landscape with sand, dunes and lagoon environments. Dogs are permitted in the designated section closest to Santa Margarida. Parking is available close to the beach, but visitors should use marked access points to avoid damaging protected dunes.

This is a good choice for dogs that enjoy longer walks and more open surroundings rather than a compact urban beach.

Access is free.

Budget: Plan roughly €20–40 per person for a relaxed day including food, refreshments and local transport. Packing a picnic can make the day considerably cheaper.

Rec del Molí, L’Escala

Another Costa Brava option is Rec del Molí in L’Escala.

The beach has fine sand and a specific designated section where dogs are accepted. It measures around 377 metres in total and can be reached by car, on foot or using the local tourist train.

Its location also makes it easy to combine beach time with a walk along the coast toward viewpoints around L’Escala.

Entry is free, so your main expenses are transport and food.

Budget: Around €15–35 should cover a simple day trip if you choose a casual meal or bring some food with you.

Murcia for More Choice

The Murcia region is another strong option for dog owners. Several municipalities have officially designated beaches where pets can stay and swim.

Mazarrón currently promotes three dog-friendly beaches, while the wider Murcia coastline offers several additional pet-access areas.

Regional rules require dogs using designated beaches to be properly vaccinated, dewormed and microchipped, with owners carrying the relevant health documentation. Some beaches also impose additional restrictions on aggressive dogs, dogs in heat or very young puppies.

Do Not Assume Every Beach Allows Dogs

One important example is Agua Amarga in Alicante.

Although it has previously appeared in many dog-beach guides, current local rules state that dogs are allowed on Alicante’s beach sand only from 1 November to 1 March and must remain on a lead. That means it should not be treated as a summer dog-beach option in 2026.

This is exactly why checking municipal rules shortly before travelling matters.

Keep Your Dog Safe

Spanish summer temperatures can make a beach uncomfortable for dogs long before humans feel ready to leave.

Avoid the hottest part of the afternoon whenever possible, provide constant access to fresh water and create reliable shade. Test the sand with your hand before letting your dog walk for long periods, as hot surfaces can burn paw pads.

Bring waste bags, a lead, a portable water bowl and your pet’s documentation.