The heat wave affects us all. And by “us all,” we mean not only people but also our dogs, who, with their thick coats, suffer from high temperatures just as we do . For this reason, our furry friends appreciate a refreshing dip at the beach just as much as we do —it helps them beat the heat.
It’s clear that not everyone has a private pool where they can swim with their dogs, and—for the good of some and the bad of others—public beaches prohibit dogs during the summer season. But luckily, the Catalan coastline has a good numberof beaches designated exclusively for pets, where the animals—not the people—make the rules.
The perfect beach for dogs because it’s better suited for dogs than for people. A small beach with no amenities and an orientation that isn’t ideal for sunbathing, but it’s perfect for taking dogs for a swim.
It’s in Sitges, half an hour from Barcelona, near the cement plant, and you can get there by following the old road to Castelldefels. Plus, it’s right in the heart of the Garraf Natural Park, so you can also cap off the day with a walk through the park.
Barcelona’s dog beach has been a resounding success since it opened a few years ago. It’s a 1,250 m² fenced-in area with a maximum capacity of 100 dogs—and in August, there are even lines to get in.
Animals entering the area must have an identification microchip. Don’t worry—as in previous years, studies have been conducted on the quality of the water and sand, as well as cleanliness, and nothing alarming has been detected in terms of health.
In any case, outside of peak season—that is, from October through April— dogs are allowed on any beach without time restrictions, except during Holy Week.
This 1,000-square-meter dog-friendly area is located between Vandellòs and Tamarit streets in Gavà. It’s undoubtedly one of the most convenient beaches to visit with our pets, as it has showers—well, more like hoses—to rinse the sand off them before heading home.
Plus, it can accommodate 100 people and 75 dogs, so you can enjoy a spacious area without feeling too crowded.
There’s a spectacular pet-friendly beach right in the heart of the Costa del Maresme where a designated area for dogs is available during the summer. Located between the train station and the port, we have a 1,500-square-meter space for dogs registered as pets with the Arenys de Mar City Council .
The beach features fine golden sand and is open from June 15 through September 16. As an exception, the beaches in Arenys de Mar allow dogs from 8 p.m. until 8 a.m.
It includes all basic services and lifeguard services.
Since 2017, Pineda de Mar Beach has had a small fenced-off section for dogs during the summer months. It’s located across from the two campgrounds, and unlike La Concòrdia, dogs don’t need to be registered with the municipality.
The beach has trash cans and poop bags in case you forget to bring them from home, as well as showers and a lifeguard service.
This might be one of the hardest beaches to reach, since to get to the sand you’ll first have to navigate the rocks that act as a retaining wall, and it’s also a bit out of the way between the towns of Masnou and Montgat. So, if you’re looking for a spot that’s a little more secluded and peaceful, this is the place for you.
Depending on the tide, you can enjoy between 1,600 m² and 5,000 m² of sand— undoubtedly more than enough space to play and swim to your heart’s content with your furry friend.
Update: As of now, in the summer of 2024, the beach’s dog-friendly services have been suspended due to a lack of sand caused by recent high tides.
This dog-friendly beach is located near the boat landing area, so you can not only enjoy a fun day with your dog but also take in a traditional Mediterranean landscape.
The waters at this beach are known for their clarity, and the sand is fine and pleasant.
The area is enclosed by wooden fences and has a maximum capacity of 150 people.
From June 1 through September 30, this beach in Mataró is open so that dogs and people can enjoy a refreshing day at the beach.
It’s located next to the pier, and dogs must be registered and microchipped to be checked in at the entrance. The beach has lifeguard service, and it’s open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
This is one of the newest dog-friendly beaches, having opened last August. The section of Platja Patins de Vela, with a capacity of just 60 people and 40 dogs, is located behind the Badalona municipal pool, and all animals visiting must be microchipped.
The beach is just a few meters from the train station and right in the heart of the city, making it the ideal choice if you want to cool off for a while and then go for an ice cream, stroll through the streets of Badalona’s historic center, or enjoy a culinary getaway.
Along with Platja Patins de Vela, it’s one of the newest additions to the list, having opened in late summer 2022. It’s located right in the heart of Calella, so you won’t have to walk far in the sweltering summer heat, and you’ll also have amenities like bars and restaurants nearby.
In the heart of Cap de Creus, we’ve found this dog-friendly beach right next to the Platja Gran parking lot. It’s a sandy area where we can enjoy spectacular views of the picturesque village with its white houses. The designated area is clearly marked, so it’s easy to find. Nearby, you’ll find restrooms, trash cans, bars, and restaurants, as well as a cleaning service.
Platja de la Rubina, Empuriabrava (Castelló d’Empúries)
We couldn’t leave off the list what is considered the great pioneer, as it was the first beach in all of Spain to officially allow dogs. It’s located right in the heart of the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park, making it a vast, wild beach with fine sand where dogs can run, jump, and play without any stress. As a protected natural area, it’s surrounded by dunes and has no large buildings nearby. Without a doubt, it’s a dog paradise that’s well worth the trip.
