Dog-Friendly Beaches (Playas Caninas) on the Costa Blanca
Spanish town halls designate specific beaches as 'playas caninas' — officially dog-friendly stretches where your dog is welcome to swim, run and sunbathe. Here's where to find them across the Costa Blanca, when they're open and the rules to know.
Spanish town halls designate specific beaches as 'playas caninas' — officially dog-friendly stretches where your dog is welcome to swim, run and sunbathe. Here's where to find them across the Costa Blanca, when they're open and the rules to know.
The rules (almost identical everywhere)
- ✦Dog on lead when out of the water (max 2 metres)
- ✦Pick up after them — bins are provided
- ✦Vaccinations up to date; chip and tag required
- ✦No more than 2 dogs per person
- ✦Aggressive breeds (PPP) muzzled per Spanish law
- ✦Children's swimming areas off-limits to dogs
Year-round dog beaches
| Beach | Town | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playa Agua Amarga | Alicante | Sand | 200m signposted zone, parking, showers |
| Cala dels Tossals | El Campello | Pebble cove | Small, scenic, lifeguard in season |
| Playa Punta del Riu | Dénia | Sand | Quiet town beach, easy access |
| Playa del Carabassí (zone) | Elche | Sand + dune | Long open beach, dedicated dog section |
| Playa de Aguamarga | Orihuela Costa (Cabo Roig) | Cove | Small, sheltered, very popular with locals |
| Cala del Charco | Villajoyosa | Pebble | Tiny, rarely crowded |
Seasonal dog beaches (low season only)
Many Costa Blanca beaches allow dogs only between October and May — the rules tighten between the start and end of the bathing season. Always check the local Ayuntamiento page or look for the signposted 'Playa Canina' panel.
- ✦Playa Norte zone (Guardamar) — Sep to Jun
- ✦Playa del Pinar (Campoamor) — Oct to May
- ✦Playa de la Glea (Campoamor) — Oct to May
- ✦Playa de las Mil Palmeras — Oct to May
Bringing a dog onto a non-designated Spanish beach in season can mean a €300+ fine. The good news: there are enough year-round options that you'll always find somewhere within 30 minutes of any Costa Blanca town.
Tips for a perfect dog-beach day
- ✦Go early — sand gets hot fast from 11:00 onwards
- ✦Bring fresh water — sea water makes dogs sick
- ✦Rinse them off at the shower before getting in the car
- ✦Keep an eye out for sea urchins on rocky coves
- ✦A long lead lets them swim while staying legal on shore
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